Thanksgiving in New York usually brings crisp air, shorter days, and the first hints of winter.
Daytime highs often land in the upper 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, while nighttime lows drop into the 30s. Chilly winds are pretty common, too.
Snow? It’s not a sure thing, but sometimes it shows up—especially upstate. Past Thanksgivings have seen flakes here and there, though it’s not the norm.
If you’re planning holiday travel or want to get outside, you’ll want to keep these patterns in mind.
In New York City, the holiday feels cool but manageable—great for parade watching or a walk in Central Park. Upstate, things get unpredictable, with colder temps and the occasional lake effect snow making travel a bit tricky.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in New York
Thanksgiving in New York City usually means cool air, shorter daylight, and a chance of unsettled skies.
You’ll get temperatures that match late autumn, with the possibility of rain or the rare trace of snow depending on the year.
Average Temperatures on Thanksgiving Day
On Thanksgiving Day, expect highs in the upper 40s to low 50s °F (8–11°C).
At night, lows often dip into the upper 30s °F (2–4°C).
That’s the city’s late November climate. It’s chillier than early fall but not quite full-on winter.
The air feels crisp, especially with wind whipping down the avenues or near the rivers.
A light jacket, some layers, and maybe a hat or scarf usually do the trick for staying comfortable outside.
Some years, temperatures climb into the 60s °F (16–18°C). Other times, they drop toward freezing.
That kind of swing makes it smart to check the forecast before you plan anything outdoors, like the parade or a stroll in Central Park.
Precipitation Patterns and Rainfall
Rain sometimes shows up on Thanksgiving, but it’s not a given.
November in New York averages about 3–4 inches (75–100 mm) of precipitation for the month.
That can mean light showers, steady rain, or even a wintry mix if it’s late in the month.
Snow on Thanksgiving? Not common, but not impossible, either.
Records only show a handful of measurable snow events on the holiday. Usually, you’ll see damp streets or cloudy skies instead of a winter wonderland.
If you’re spending time outside, bring an umbrella or a raincoat.
Sidewalks can get slick, and chilly temps make wet weather feel colder than the numbers say.
Most years, though, the day stays dry enough for holiday events.
Historical Weather Extremes
Some past Thanksgivings in New York City have brought a real mix of weather.
The warmest years hit the mid-60s °F (about 18°C), so it felt more like early fall.
The coldest years dropped into the 20s °F (around -3 to -5°C), and wind chills made it feel even worse.
Snow has popped up before. In 1920, temperatures hovered just below 40°F with a trace of snow.
Other years, you might only see flurries or no snow at all.
Rainfall extremes have happened too, with some holidays bone dry and others marked by steady showers.
Averages help, but honestly, you could get anything—warmer, colder, wetter, or drier than normal.
Temperature Trends and Variability
Thanksgiving weather in New York can swing from mild, almost spring-like afternoons to pretty chilly days when cold air arrives early.
These patterns matter if you want to do anything outdoors or if you’re traveling, since late autumn weather is always a bit of a wild card.
Recent Years’ Temperature Fluctuations
In New York City, the average high around Thanksgiving sits close to 50°F (10°C).
Lately, it seems like we’ve had more warmer-than-usual afternoons. Some years even hit the mid-60s, which makes being outside a lot more comfortable.
Still, those cold years sneak in, especially when an early-season cold front shows up.
Highs can drop into the 30s, and it can feel like a totally different season from one year to the next.
This variability matches up with bigger climate trends. Statewide records show winters are warming faster than other seasons.
So, you might see fewer bone-chilling Thanksgivings than in the past, but swings between mild and chilly are still pretty common.
If you’re planning, expect highs somewhere between 40–60°F. Just remember—cold snaps can still bring below-freezing mornings.
Warmest and Coldest Thanksgiving Days
The most memorable Thanksgivings in New York City usually stand out because of the extremes.
The warmest years saw highs in the mid-60s, which is wild for late November. Those days felt more like October.
The coldest Thanksgivings have dropped into the low 20s, and wind chills made it even tougher to be outside.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Condition | Approx. High | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Warmest | 65°F (18°C) | Comfortable, light jacket weather |
| Average | 50°F (10°C) | Typical late-fall day |
| Coldest | 22–25°F (-5°C to -3°C) | Harsh winds, heavy coat required |
These records help you prep. Depending on the year, you could get anything from mild sunshine to biting cold.
Snowfall and Lake Effect Snow
Thanksgiving in New York sometimes brings a taste of early winter.
Some places only see a little snow, but others get hammered by lake effect bands that can shut down roads and delay travel.
Likelihood of Snow on Thanksgiving
Snow on Thanksgiving happens in parts of New York, but it really depends on where you are.
The Adirondacks and Tug Hill Plateau often get over 90 inches per season, so snow cover on the holiday isn’t unusual.
Areas near Lake Champlain or the lower Hudson Valley average closer to 60 inches per season, so Thanksgiving snow is less likely there.
Elevation matters, too. Higher ground cools off faster, which means snow is more likely to stick.
Lower valleys might only get flurries or a rain-snow mix.
Old weather records show some Thanksgivings in Buffalo and Syracuse have had more than a foot of snow.
Other years? Just clouds.
You should always check the forecast before making travel plans.
Lake Effect Snow Patterns
Lake effect snow is a big deal in late November.
When cold air moves across the warmer waters of Lakes Erie and Ontario, it creates narrow but intense snow bands.
These can dump several inches per hour on one town while a place 20 miles away barely gets a dusting.
The worst of it usually hits the Buffalo Southtowns, the Chautauqua Ridge, and the Tug Hill Plateau east of Lake Ontario.
These spots sometimes pick up 1 to 4 feet of snow in a single event.
If the wind stays steady, lake effect events can last for days.
Travel along the New York Thruway and secondary highways can get dicey during these storms.
Lake Effect Snow Warning Impacts
The National Weather Service issues a Lake Effect Snow Warning when heavy snow is expected in a specific area.
Warnings might mention totals like 1 to 6 feet depending on the storm.
During these warnings, you should expect reduced visibility, road closures, and hazardous driving conditions.
Snow bands can shift fast, making even short trips risky.
Counties like Erie, Cattaraugus, Jefferson, and Lewis often get these warnings in late November.
Local forecasts highlight the timing and intensity, so keep an eye out if you’re traveling.
If you’re visiting family or driving long distances, give yourself extra time.
Throw some winter supplies in your car—blankets, snacks, that sort of thing—just in case.
Weather Impact on Thanksgiving Events
Weather during Thanksgiving in New York really shapes how you experience outdoor celebrations and travel.
Rain, snow, or strong winds can change how events go and affect your trip.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Weather
The parade in New York City depends a lot on wind, temperature, and precipitation.
Those giant balloons—like the famous character floats—can’t fly if winds stay above 23 mph or gusts go over 34 mph.
That’s led to delays or changes in the past.
Rain shows up more often than snow in late November, but even a light drizzle can make the parade less fun for people watching.
Streets get slick, and standing around in the 40s with damp air feels colder than you might think.
Snow is rare but not impossible.
If it falls, crews have to clear viewing spots overnight.
Snow looks festive, but it creates safety headaches for performers and crowds.
If you’re planning to be outside for a while, dress in layers, wear waterproof shoes, and maybe bring hand warmers.
That way you’re ready whether it’s clear or unsettled weather.
Travel Conditions During the Holiday
Travel around Thanksgiving in New York can get complicated by weather systems rolling up the East Coast.
Rain is the most common problem. It leads to airport delays, slower highways, and poor visibility.
Even light rain can back up flights at JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark.
Snow usually causes more trouble upstate than in the city.
Lake-effect snow can hit hard north and west of New York City, making driving hazardous.
If you’re headed toward Buffalo or Syracuse, you might deal with road closures or slow travel.
Wind is another hassle. Gusts can delay flights and make bridges tricky for high-profile vehicles.
Sometimes, power goes out if strong winds combine with wet weather.
To make things easier, plan for extra travel time, keep an eye on airline alerts, and check state transportation updates.
Leaving a day early or later than the main rush can help you dodge the worst delays.
Regional Differences Across New York State
Thanksgiving weather in New York really depends on where you go.
Elevation, the Great Lakes, and city effects all shape what you’ll get.
Weather in Upstate New York
Upstate New York in late November usually brings cold air and the chance of early snow.
Cities like Albany and Syracuse see average highs in the low to mid-40s °F, with lows in the upper 20s.
Nights can feel much colder, especially in rural spots with little city warmth.
Snowfall is common by now. Syracuse averages several inches in November, and it’s not weird to see snow on the ground during the holiday week.
The Adirondack Mountains run colder, with highs often in the 30s and a better shot at accumulating snow.
If you’re driving, watch out for icy roads in the morning.
Even if daytime temps climb above freezing, shaded spots and higher elevations can stay slick.
Pack warm layers and give yourself extra travel time—it’s worth it.
Western New York and Buffalo Area Conditions
Western New York, especially around Buffalo, gets some pretty wild weather in late November. Cold air sweeps across Lake Erie and kicks up lake effect snow—heavy, super-localized stuff.
You might see clear skies on one side of the city, while another neighborhood gets buried under several inches of snow. It’s a strange sight if you’re not used to it.
During Thanksgiving week, Buffalo usually sees highs in the low 40s °F and lows hovering near freezing. Rain or snow showers both show up, but those lake effect bands can dump way more snow in a hurry.
These bursts make travel tricky, sometimes even causing whiteouts on short stretches of highway. If you’re driving, you’ll want to keep that in mind.
Lake Erie really keeps everyone guessing. Weather can flip fast.
If you’re visiting Buffalo, check the forecast often and stay ready for surprises. Winter tires, warm clothes, and a flexible schedule go a long way.
Tips for Preparing for Thanksgiving Weather
New York weather around Thanksgiving loves to change its mind—chilly mornings, maybe a mild afternoon, then damp evenings. If you prep a bit, you’ll stay comfortable and avoid any travel headaches during the holiday rush.
Packing and Dressing for the Weather
Late November temps usually bounce between the upper 30s and low 50s °F. Layers are your best friend so you can add or shed as needed.
A light to medium jacket with a sweater or fleece underneath usually does the trick.
Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and scarf. Winds can cut right through you, especially if you’re near a parade or out on open streets.
Waterproof shoes or boots are a lifesaver if it rains or you run into slush. That happens more often than you’d think.
Heading to something like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? Go for warm but breathable layers. Standing outside for hours feels way colder than just walking around the city.
A small umbrella or a compact poncho comes in handy if showers roll through.
Packing extra socks and a backup pair of gloves is just smart. If you’re outside all day and things get wet, those little extras can make a huge difference.
Safety Precautions for Holiday Travel
Thanksgiving week always feels like one of the busiest times to hit the road or catch a flight. Rain, or sometimes early snow, can mess with highways, trains, and flights.
Check the weather forecast before you leave. Give yourself extra time, just in case.
If you’re driving, stash an emergency kit in your car. I’d throw in a blanket, flashlight, bottled water, and a phone charger.
Cold mornings and those sneaky icy patches can pop up fast and cause trouble.
For air travel, pack your essentials—medications and a change of clothes—in your carry-on. Weather delays happen all the time, and having the basics with you helps if your bag goes missing.
Public transit in New York usually shifts to holiday schedules, so check for updates before you go. Stations can get crowded, and weather can slow things down, so expect your trip to take a bit longer than usual.