The Bucket List • November 2017 • NYC Edition

As the holidays approach, November is a big month in New York City. Steve Martin’s “Meteor Shower” premieres with Amy Schumer, Performa 17 Biennial takes over NYC and features artists such as Barbara Kruger, John Leguizamo’s “Latin History for Morons” gets its own spot on Broadway and Jay-Z, Janet Jackson and Billy Joel all hit the mic. If celebrating then holiday season is what you are looking for there are plenty of winter-themed events from the Columbus Circle and Union Square Holiday Markets to the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting and Christmas Spectacular along with food-filled experiences such as Winter’s Eve or the Feast with Mario Batali to get you into the yuletide spirit. Whatever you’re looking for, our Bucket List has you covered.

Springsteen on Broadway at Walter Kerr Theatre | Through Feb. 3
Experience the legendary singer like you never have before. For the first time in over 40 years, the 23-time Grammy Award Winning singer will perform in his most intimate setting. The Walter Kerr Theatre is one of Broadway’s smallest venues. The show is simply Springsteen, a guitar, and a piano… just as it should be.

John Leguizamo’s Latin History for Morons at Studio 54 | Through Feb. 4
John Leguizamo’s one-man tour de force show, “Latin History for Morons,” now has a spot on Broadway. Directed by Tony Taccone, Leguizamo gives an entertaining and uproarious look at his cultural heritage. Previews begin Oct. 23, and the show officially opens for its full run Nov. 15.

Hillary Clinton Live at The Temple Emanu-El Streicker Center | Nov. 1
There have been many accounts of the events that unfolded during the 2016 Presidential race, which was one of the most controversial in U.S. history. Now is your chance to hear the personal perspective on the outcome from the candidate herself. Join Clinton as she discusses her book, “What Happened,” in what is sure to be an interesting and personal evening.

Performa 17 Biennial | Nov. 1 – Nov. 19
Since its humble beginnings in 2004, Performa has prided itself on showcasing hundreds of emerging visual artists. The curation of work provided by thought-provoking of live performers, choreographers, and creators, displays at various venues around the city. Taking place throughout the city, the program takes a look at work you might not see anywhere else, featuring new projects and commissions by a few dozen artists including Barbara Kruger, William Kentridge and Wangechi Mutu.

Steve Martin’s Meteor Shower  at Booth Theater | Nov. 1 – Jan. 21
A pair of couples find themselves in a marital free-fall when a dinner party turns wrong. Written by Steve Martin, the show provides Amy Schumer with her Broadway debut. “Meteor Shower” also stars Keegan-Michael Key, Laura Benanti, and Jeremy Shamos. Previews begin Nov. 1, and the show officially opens for its full run Nov. 29.

Jerry Seinfeld: The Homestand at Beacon Theater | Nov. 2 
After decades on the scene, Seinfeld is still one of the top comics in the game. Extended by popular demand, the legendary New Yorker will bring the laughs to the Beacon Theatre again on Nov. 2 at his once a month residency. No further shows have been confirmed past his November and December finales, so this could be your final chance to take his run at the Beacon. 

Yayoi Kusama: Festival of Life at David Zwirner Galleries | Nov. 2 – Dec. 16
Yayoi Kusama, recently known for the Infinity Mirrors exhibition, which visits NYC next month, takes over the David Zwirner Galleries with two exhibits running across all three gallery spaces. The Festival of Life shows can be viewed at 525 and 533 West 19th Street, while Infinity Nets is on exhibit at 34 East 69th Street on the Upper East Side. The exhibitions will feature sixty-six paintings from Kusama’s “My Eternal Soul” series and two of the much-instagrammed-about “Infinity Mirror Rooms” at the Chelsea locations, and a selection of new “Infinity Nets” paintings at the Upper East Side gallery.

Madama Butterfly at The Metropolitan Opera | Nov. 2 – March 16
Since its premiere at the Met in 2006, Anthony Minghella’s stage production of Puccini’s heartbreaking opera has become a classic staple for the Met stage. The return of the show stars Hui He and Ermonela Jaho as the tragic and trusting geisha. Marco Armiliato conducts the thrilling performance.

Bruce Dickinson at Gramercy Theatre | Nov. 3
Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden sits down for an intimate conversation and Q&A to discuss his long-awaited memoir “What Does This Button Do?” The lead vocalist of the iconic band will share stories of his life, solo career, childhood, and, of course, years with Iron Maiden.

NYC Craft Beer Festival at Metropolitan Pavilion | Nov. 3 – Nov. 4
Enjoy some of the best craft brews from over 75 breweries in the nation under one roof at this thirst-quenching two-day event. Upgrade your pass to VIP to access special seasonal beers not available to general admission and add on an extra hour for tastings.

Jimmie Durham: At the Center of the World at The Whitney | Nov. 3 – Jan. 28
The extensive collection presented at The Whitney spans across an array of media, including drawings, collages, photographs, videos, and performances. Durham is a multifaceted artist, and the controversial exhibit features over 120 pieces of his work dating back to the 1970s.

New York City Marathon | Nov. 5
After gorging on Halloween candy, or in preparation for the holiday feast ahead, it might be good to burn a few calories. But, if running isn’t your thing, you can still cheer on the athletes or visit some of the vendors that line the marathon route, which stretches across all five of New York City’s boroughs.

Pathway to Paris ft. Patti Smith, Joan Baez, Michael Stipe, Flea and Cat Power at Carnegie Hall | Nov. 5
Pathway to Paris in conjunction with 350.org brings together musicians, artists, activist, academics, and innovators to help raise awareness surrounding the urgent climate action, and offers alternatives to the passing of the Paris Agreement. Guests include Patti Smith, Joan Baez, Michael Stipe, Flea, Talib Kweli, and Cat Power. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to 350.org, Pathway to Paris, and the UNDP.

New York Taste at The Waterfront | Nov. 6
Experience New York’s best menu in this special one-night event. New York Taste returns for an evening of all-you-can-eat and drink. Including more than 40 of the city’s most celebrated restaurants and mixology bars, the event features flavors from Babu Ji, Bar Goto, Bien Cuit, Benoit, Chinese Tuxedo, and many others.

New York Comedy Festival | Nov. 7 – Nov. 12
Get ready to laugh with some of the biggest names in comedy. The five-day festival includes performances by Kevin Smith, Ron White, Jo Koy, Nick Offerman, Bill Maher, Jim Norton, and more. The event also includes panels, comedy classes, and other events to tickle your funny bone.

The Salon Art + Design at Park Avenue Armory | Nov. 9 – Nov. 13
Every November The Salon Art + Design welcomes the finest international galleries from around the world to gather in one collective space. The exhibit features modern and historical furniture, featuring groundbreaking design and late 19th through 21st century art. It’s an exhibit where the old-world aesthetic meets contemporary style.

DOC NYC | Nov. 9 – Nov. 16
Doc NYC features the best in documentary filmmaking. The festival serves as a platform for both emerging and established voices, providing premieres, screenings, panels, and discussions centered on various subject matter. Highlight premieres include, “12th and Clairmount,” “Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars,” and “Eurotrump.”

The Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall | Nov. 10 – Jan. 1
It’s (almost) Christmas time in the city. But there is no harm is getting into the spirit a little early. The long-standing history behind the Rocketts stretches back to the 1920s. Since then, they have perfected their routines to present their pinnacle annual performance at the Christmas Spectacular. You won’t want to miss the evening of dancing, lights, and surprise performances.

American Field Pop-Up Market at Brooklyn Industrial Park | Nov. 11 – Nov. 12
Some of the nation’s most innovative and emerging brands will be present at The All-American Pop-Up Market. Shop among various vendors, while you meet the creators behind some of these creative and enhancing products. If you strike an appetite while shopping and browsing the event also features a number of unique dining options.

Museum of Modern Art Film Benefit | Nov. 13
The 10th annual celebration of film at the MoMa, presented by Chanel, will honor Academy Award-winning actress Julianne Moore. The event will feature a gala dinner and follows a weeklong film series attributing the work of the talented actress.

Michelangelo: Divine Draftsman and Designer at The Met Fifth Avenue | Nov. 13 – Feb. 12
A towering icon of Western art, Michelangelo will be the subject of this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition. Featuring a rich selection of over 50 public and private collections from across the globe, the display will include a wide array of the artist’s life-long work. This event is a must-see for all art aficionados.

Guggenheim International Pre-Party and Gala | Nov. 15 + Nov. 16
Join the Nov. 16 celebration of visionaries honoring Cai Guo-Qiang, Jennifer Blei Stockman, and UBS. Enjoy dinner and cocktails following a performance by Dancer Daniil Simkin, as he performs an excerpt from his show, “Falls the Shadow.” The exquisite evening is predated on Nov. 15 by a party featuring special guest performers, HAIM and Kindness.

Janet Jackson in NYC | Nov. 15 + Nov. 19
See global music icon, multiple Grammy Award-winning artist Janet Jackson on her State of the World North American tour. The 56-city engagement kicked off in September and only lasts through December. Jackson hits the stage at the Barclays Center (Nov. 15) and the Prudential Center (Nov. 19). You might want to grab your tickets fast for this one. Oh, and good luck getting “Rhythm Nation” out of your head after the show ends.

John Carpenter at Terminal 5 | Nov. 16
The master of horror himself goes on tour once again as he performs his original hits. The prolific composer and director has created some of Hollywood’s greatest horror movie scores for his films, including the iconic and simple piano tunes for “Halloween,” “The Thing,” and “The Fog.” There is no better way to heal your post-Halloween hangover than listening to the very key cords that will send shivers down your spine.

WhiskyFest at Marriott Marquis | Nov. 16
Sample from a vast selection of single malt and blended Scotch, Irish, bourbon, rye, Tennessee, Japanese, Canadian, and craft-distilled whiskies. Following a delicious tasting, learn from the experts at the educational WhiskyFest masterclass. Hot tip: if you can’t make this year’s festival, tickets for the Nov. 2018 event go on sale Nov. 9. Tickets sell out early, so don’t miss out.

Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden | Nov. 18
Join musical legend Billy Joel at his monthly residency at Madison Square Garden Arena. The iconic singer has had 33 number-one hits during the span of his incredible career. It’s a night any music enthusiast wouldn’t want to miss.

Bob Dylan and Mavis Staples at Beacon Theatre | Nov. 20 – Nov. 22 + Nov. 24 + Nov. 25
Legendary song master, Bob Dylan, hits New York’s Beacon Theatre for a five-night event. The singer-songwriter was recently the subject of the documentary feature, “Trouble No More,” which premiered at the New York Film Festival in September. Mavis Staples, who recently announced her album “If All I Was Was Black,” opens the show.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade | Nov. 23
Instead of spending your Thanksgiving watching the iconic parade march from 77th Street down to Macy’s Herald Square on your television screen, or let’s be honest, your iPhone, be a part of the magical tradition. The parade, which began in 1924, features an array of floats, balloons, and performances.

Bar Car Night at New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show | Nov. 24 + Nov. 25
The wintry landscape of New York Botanical Garden sets the scene for festive outdoor adventures. The 21+ evening also features and after-dark viewing of the Holiday Train show. So grab a drink and enjoy the magical and festive garden, dueling pianos at the Pine Tree Café, and end your evening cozying up next to the warm fire pit.

Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar at 501 Union + The Green Building | Nov. 25 – Nov. 26
Enjoy a unique celebration of local talent with over 60 handpicked crafters and creators, food masters, and one-of-a-kind drink mixologists. The event also includes fun activities for the whole family. Shop while you feast. Now that’s the definition of multi-tasking.

Jay-Z at Barclays Center | Nov. 26 + Nov. 27
The tidal artist brings his “4:44 Tour” to Brooklyn for two-nights only. The Grammy Award Winning rapper ends his tour in December, so you won’t want to miss this show, which supports his 13th studio album. Joining the iconic rapper on stage is Vic Mensa.

Feast with Mario Batali at The Maritime Hotel | Nov. 27
Join Teens for Food Justice for an evening merging theater and culinary tastings in support of healthy food access. The event features special dishes, which coincide with the theatrical performance. Hot tip: very few tickets are left, so grab them quickly.

Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square | Nov. 27
The Lincoln Square Business Improvement District and Time Warner, Inc, present the 18th annual Winter’s Eve event. The holiday festival features affordable food tastings, processional groups, jugglers, stilt-walkers, performers, and live music. This is the perfect event, which features a little bit of everything, to get you into the holiday spirit.

Mariah Carey at Beacon Theatre | Nov 27 + Nov. 28 + Dec. 1 + Dec. 2  + Dec. 4 + Dec. 5
What better way to ring in the holiday season than with a performance by the ultimate self-proclaimed diva herself, Mariah Carey. The songstress hits the stage for a five-night event during her global “All I Want For Christmas Is You” concert series. Two shows were recently added but grab your tickets fast as they are selling out quickly.

Columbus Circle Holiday Market | Nov. 28 – Dec. 24
Located at the entrance of Central Park, the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is an elegant and beautiful alternative to department store shopping. Get everything on your entire holiday shopping list, as the market features vendors of art, jewelry, home goods, and treats that will provide unique gifts for all.

Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting | Nov. 29
A landmark staple of Manhattan during the yuletide season is the nearly 100-foot Christmas tree, which sparkles with 50,000 bulbs at Rockefeller Center. The 85th annual lighting ceremony is free to attend and fills in on a first-come, first-served basis. The lineup of performances is typically announced about two-weeks out, so be sure to keep an eye out.

21st Annual Central Park Holiday Lighting | Nov. 30
Right after you stare in awe at the Rockefeller lighting ceremony, hop uptown the next evening for the glimmering festivities at Central Park. Celebrate the season with a live ice carving demonstration and carolers on the Plaza. Then warm-up with delicious hot cocoa and cookies. The evening tops off with the lighting of the fleet of trees on the Harlem Meer.