What To Do In NYC This Weekend November 17 To 19

The city is officially in full holiday swing

You can finally bust out the Michael Bublé Christmas tunes without judgment: The holidays have arrived in New York City. Kick-start your seasonal shopping (and eating) with these eight weekend events.

All Weekend

Union Square Holiday Market

Urbanspace's world-famous market is back with even more vendors packed into its crowded aisles this year. Expect artisanal crafts, enough food provisions to stock your pantry until next Christmas and, new this year, an entire section dedicated to Brooklyn artisans.

Grand Central Holiday Fair

Once you've decided it's time to go inside and thaw your fingers, make your way to Grand Central's holiday marketplace, where you'll find handmade gifts worthy enough even for your dad who claims he has everything.

Norwegian Christmas Fair

You didn't end up booking that impulse trip to Scandinavia, but a mug of glogg in one hand and a Danish waffle in the other are all you need to pretend like you're in northern Europe. 

Saturday, November 18 

Not-So Spring Cleaning Sale

Thursday morning isn't exactly the best time to realize you're severely under-equipped to host Thanksgiving. Swing by Bowery Restaurant Group's garage sale, where it's selling everything from back-of-house restaurant supplies to dinnerware so stylish you'll want to host Christmas, too. 

Brain Freeze Ice Cream Eating Contest

It takes a special person to want to down a pint of ice cream as fast as possible (in November, no less). But if you're up for the challenge, you'll have to finish in under two minutes and 20 seconds at least: That's how long it took last year's winner, Patrick Garcia, to finish his pint.

230 Fifth Rooftop Igloos

You just can't keep a New Yorker away from a rooftop bar, no matter what time of year it is. To celebrate the return of its cozy outdoor igloos, this popular NoMad lounge is offering two-for-one drinks specials. 

Holiday Spirits Bazaar

This all-you-can-drink party brings the city's best bartenders and mixologists together for a night of festive cocktails. VIP ticket holders get early access, and a portion of proceeds will go toward the Children's Aid Society. 

Sunday, November 19

Brooklyn Chili Takedown

If your Texas red really is that good, sign up for this competition that pits the borough's best chili makers against each other. If you'd rather just eat from the sidelines, general admission grants you a never-ending bowl.