The big to-do in New York City this holiday is, of course, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. If you plan on taking your kids to see it or the awesome balloon inflation the night before, we've got tips on how to scope out the best spots and other useful info about these must-see spectacles.

This weekend officially kicks off the holiday season and there are plenty of ways for families to get into the spirit (besides hitting a Black Friday sale). The New York Botanical Garden's beautiful Holiday Train Show is up and running, Santa is setting up shop at Macy's and other spots starting on Friday, and the big department stores have unveiled their over-the-top holiday windows.

There is non-holiday fun too, like a glow-in-the-dark puppet production of The Ugly Duckling and the Tortoise and the Hare and a festival of stunning anime movies from Japan's Studio Ghibli.

These are just a few of the great things going on this Thanksgiving weekend. Read on for all of our picks and remember, you can find additional options in our Event Calendar and our Holiday Fun Guide. We wish you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving!

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