Things to do on a Sunday in New York

NYC’s biggest running event is back with the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon, which will see thousands of runners from all over the world compete in a 26.2-mile race that spans all five boroughs. It’s impressive, to say the least! Even if you’re not running in the event, turning out to cheer on the athletes is time well spent.

In our 2026 NYC Marathon guide, we've answered your most pressing questions about the TCS NYC Marathon so you can plan accordingly.

Are you ready to rock? The Little Mermen & the Princess Pals sure is, and Halloween is their time to shine. This Disney classics tribute band is putting on a show, Friday, October 30, turning SoHo Live (94 Lafayette St) into a spooky, nostalgia-filled night out. Part rock concert, part sing-along and part costume party, guests are encouraged to lean into the soundtrack of their childhoods at this 21+ event. The set list includes bengers from Mulan, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, The Lion King and more, plus some beloved Disney Channel throwbacks mixed in.

Advanced planning will get you $18 tickets, but waiting until the last minute will only run you $7 more (both prices are not including fees). Doors open at 7pm and the show runs from 7:30 to 10pm.

Every Friday in October from 7 to 10pm, intimate cocktail den Foxtail (231 Hudson St.) will feel a little more seasonal. The lounge is hosting a Spooky Movie Month series in the Living Room at Arlo SoHo, where guests will settle in for an evening of horror classics and themed, discounted, film-inspired menu specials. For those who love a combo meal, there's a $19 "spooky deal" that includes a sandwich, chips and a cookie. No ticket is needed, but there is a two-item minimum per attendee. Seating is first-come, first-served, so get there early to claim your spot. The film lineup consists of The Lost Boys (Oct. 2), Donnie Darko (Oct. 9), Hereditary (Oct. 16), The Craft (Oct. 23) and The Shining (Oct. 30).

Bryant Park’s free spooktacular annual Halloween event, Tricks and Treats, makes its grand return to the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park on Friday, October 30. The event kicks off with a 4pm magic show from Chris Capehart and a 5pm science show from Crazy Science—both at The Deck. Over at Le Carrousel, families can enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating and arts and crafts, plus $5 rides with the Headless Horseman. Festivities run from 4 to 6pm.

Beware: All of the eerie fun is first-come, first-served and weather permitting, so it's best to consult the event's website ahead of the event.

Get spooky under the sea at the American Museum of Natural History on October 31, when the annual Halloween Celebration takes over the Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life under the iconic Blue Whale. The family-friendly festivities include themed arts and crafts, face painting, balloon animals and a live marine biology experience with Island Fish and Scale. Kids can also trick-or-treat throughout the first floor and join a costume parade, showing off this year's trendiest character costumes. The celebration runs from 11am until 4pm, and while costumes are encouraged, organizers kindly ask you leave the Halloween masks at home.

The spooktacular festivities cost $25 per person, or $15 for member—that's on top of regular admission fare for the day (pay-what-you-wish for NY state residents, non-residents: $37 per adult, $22 per child, $30 students and seniors).

La Catrina and a troupe of larger-than-life skeleton puppets are descending upon the New York Botanical Garden for Día de los Muertos. Created by artists Lucrecia Novoa and Mascara Viva, the elaborate puppets will wander the Garden October 31 through November 2, from 1pm to 5pm, bringing one of Mexico’s most recognizable cultural symbols to life through movement and storytelling. La Catrina originated as a satirical illustration by Mexican printmaker Jose Guadalupe Posada before becoming an enduring symbol of Día de los Muertos. Catch the colorful artwork as part of NYBG’s fall celebration in the Bronx.

Good news: There's no added ticket needed to view the puppets, they can be found around the garden for all who paid admission.

Faena New York is going full theatrical fantasy for Halloween, transforming the hotel into a themed experience. The Living Room will become a spooky playground from 8pm to 2am, October 30 and 31. Expect live entertainment, DJs and an electric atmosphere, with a premium open bar keeping the party going. Come dressed for fantasy and a night of unmistakable Faena flair at 500 West 18th Street. The Living Room experience will run guests $250 per general admission ticket.

For those who consider a regular Halloween party insufficient, Faena also offers El Secreto: Afterlife, an ultra-exclusive opportunity for a private takeover of the hotel's hidden gem lounge on October 31. From 8pm to 2am, your guests get a private DJ, live entertainment, event photography, premium beverages, passed canapés, caviar and an abundant seafood display. The package also includes a two-night stay in a Hudson One Bedroom Suite, an in-suite makeup artist, daily breakfast for two, Tierra Santa Healing House credit, a welcome amenity and private car transfers. In other words, the over-the-top luxury Halloween of your dreams. Hosting your friends will cost you $55,000—but, then again, how often does Halloween fall on a Saturday?

We're throwing the spookiness into high gear with our list of events for Halloween in NYC. From costume parties to haunted houses, and corn mazes to parades (even ones made for dogs), we're so ready! Whether you're looking for last-minute plans for the kiddos or seeking out a fun hotel party to attend, this list has got you covered.

Get a rare glimpse inside a quintessential Brooklyn Heights 1839 Greek Revival townhouse, just steps from the world-famous Brooklyn Heights Promenade. The townhouse (1 Monroe Pl.) features a grand double parlor with soaring 13-foot ceilings and preserved period details, a spacious full-floor primary bedroom suite and five beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces. A fifth floor features floating stairs to the roof deck with both city and water views. Marvel at each room decked out by talented interior designers from New York and Brooklyn.

The Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse is open through November 1. It's closed Monday through Wednesday, operating from 11am to 7pm Thursdays and Fridays, and 10am to 6pm Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets cost $50 per person or $450 for a group of 10. Brooklyn Heights Association members can get in for $40.