The Big Apple Doesn't Fall Far in October: Your NYC Hit List (Because Let's Face It, You Need One)
Ah, October in New York City. The leaves are turning the colour of a PSL (pumpkin spice latte, for the uninitiated), there's a crispness in the air that makes overpriced scarves finally acceptable, and everyone's just a little bit jittery because Halloween is around the corner. But fear not, fellow adventurer! This city that never sleeps throws one heck of an October bash, and we're here to make sure you're the guest of honour (or at least that guy who snagged the last slice of pizza).
Embrace Your Inner Cinephile (or Just Escape the Cold)
- The New York Film Festival (September 29th - October 15th): Mingle with the ghosts of auteurs past (or maybe just some film students) at this prestigious festival. You might even catch a glimpse of your favourite indie darling discussing the deeper meaning of that spork in their latest flick.
Pro Tip: Wear a beret for maximum intellectual effect (bonus points for a turtleneck).
Get Your Spook On (Because Basic is Beautiful)
- Halloween in NYC (October 31st): This isn't your average trick-or-treating session. We're talking elaborate costumes, spooky decorations that would make your grandma clutch her pearls, and enough candy corn to fuel a small nation.
Where to Bob for the Best Costumes: The Village Halloween Parade is legendary for a reason. Just be prepared for shoulder-to-shoulder crowds and enough fake blood to fill a bathtub.
Alternatively: Head to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn for Christmas lights that would make Santa himself jealous. Yes, you read that right. Halloween and Christmas decorations duke it out in an epic battle every year.
Fall is for Feasting (and Avoiding Pumpkin Spice Everything)
- The Atlantic Antic (Brooklyn Bridge Park, Various Dates): This street fair is basically a love letter to all things Brooklyn (craft beer, artisanal pickles, enough plaid to make a lumberjack weep). But hey, there's good eats for everyone, even if pumpkin spice isn't your jam.
Pro Tip: Pace yourself. You'll want to try everything from the gourmet grilled cheese to the fancy cupcakes shaped like hedgehogs (because, why not?).
Bonus Round: Catch Something Other Than a Cold
- Baseball Playoffs (Variable Dates): Witness the nail-biting intensity of America's pastime (or at least watch people stuff their faces with overpriced nachos).
- Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center (Opens Late October): Channel your inner Sonja Henie (or just pretend you know who that is) at this iconic rink. Breathtaking views of the city and a guaranteed Instagram moment (because #touristlife) are included.
Remember: October is a magical time in NYC. So, grab a slice, put on a ridiculously cozy sweater, and get ready to experience the city in all its autumnal glory. Just try not to get lost in the crowd, and for the love of Pete, pace yourself on the pumpkin spice lattes.
