How to Celebrate Thanksgiving Break in Binghamton: A Complete Guide

Experience awe at the Broome County Festival of Lights

Get in the holiday spirit with Broome County’s annual lights festival. This drive-thru event at Otsiningo Park has everything from food, to dance performances, to fireworks!

Run in this year’s Turkey Trot

As a runner myself, I strongly recommend participating in this 5-mile race through Otsiningo Park! Running is a great way to meet new people and get exercise.

Eat at a restaurant

Trying to plan Friendsgiving but don’t feel like cooking? Check out these restaurants offering buffets and catering options on Thanksgiving Day!

Watch the Macy’s Day Parade and National Dog Show

Some of my favorite Thanksgiving memories are waking up and turning on the TV to enjoy kitschy parade performances and watch funny-looking dogs. This is best enjoyed with friends and a light breakfast to save room for a Thanksgiving meal! Tune in on NBC starting at 8:30 a.m. EST.

Spend less on Black Friday shopping

For those of us looking to get ahead on holiday shopping, there are a number of places to find gifts for your loved ones. For everything from Dick’s Sporting Goods to Barnes and Noble, check out Town Square Mall in Vestal, the Shoppes at Vestal, and Oakdale Commons in Johnson City.

Enjoy a local hockey game

The Binghamton Black Bears take on a number of opponents during the holiday season. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience a lively Binghamton hockey home game on Wednesday, Nov. 22 or Saturday, Nov. 25!

Support the community on Small Business Saturday

If you’d rather support small businesses than shop at big retailers, Binghamton has plenty of options! Local restaurants are hosting artisans, crafts, and food vendors at collaborative events! You can also check out Old Barn Market’s pop-up event with music, vendors, and treats. In downtown Binghamton, there will be a holiday tree lighting, as well as a free concert.

We hope you have a safe and fun break! For more things to do, check this out.

Shawn Ammann is an intern for the Office of Media and Public Relations, and a junior majoring in English. He is undecided on a career path, but is interested in screenwriting and sportswriting. He enjoys playing basketball, running, watching movies and writing.

Stephen Folkerts is an intern for the Office of Public Media and Relations, and a senior majoring in English. He hopes to work in ministry and publishing. In his spare time, he enjoys jazz drumming, poetry and basketball.