Easter in New York City is so much more than egg hunts and brunches. From the world-famous Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue to stunning church services in historic cathedrals, discover all the ways to celebrate Easter in the Big Apple!
The Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival
NYC Easter Parade & Easter Bonnet Festival
New York City's Easter Parade has been a beloved tradition since the 1870s. Fifth Avenue closes to traffic as New Yorkers and visitors stroll in their finest Easter outfits and creative bonnets. The most elaborate hats and costumes gather near St. Patrick's Cathedral (between 50th and 51st Streets). No tickets or registration needed — just show up and enjoy! Bring your own bonnet for the full experience.
Easter Bunny Photos & Meet-and-Greets
Easter Bunny at Macy's Herald Square
Meet the Easter Bunny at the world's most famous department store. Professional photo packages available. Macy's also features spring window displays and Easter shopping events. Check macys.com for exact 2026 dates and reservation info.
Easter Bunny Photos at Brookfield Place
Professional Easter Bunny photo sessions in the beautiful Winter Garden atrium. Offers standard and premium photo packages, plus sensory-friendly sessions for children with special needs. Check brookfieldplaceny.com for 2026 dates.
Easter Bunny at Queens Center Mall
Professional bunny photo sessions with a variety of packages. Also offers "Caring Bunny" sensory-friendly sessions for children with developmental differences. Check queenscentermall.com for 2026 schedule.
Easter Church Services
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Easter Mass at one of America's most iconic Catholic cathedrals. The Easter Sunday schedule includes multiple Masses throughout the day, with the principal Mass celebrated by the Archbishop of New York. Arrive very early for seating — St. Patrick's draws enormous crowds on Easter. Visit saintpatrickscathedral.org for the full Holy Week schedule.
Cathedral of St. John the Divine
Easter services in the world's largest Anglican cathedral. The stunning Gothic space hosts a full Holy Week schedule including a spectacular Easter Sunday service with choir and organ. The cathedral's Morningside Heights location makes it easy to combine with a visit to Riverside Park. Visit stjohndivine.org for details.
Trinity Church Wall Street
One of NYC's oldest and most historic churches, dating to 1697. Easter services in the beautiful Gothic Revival sanctuary feature the renowned Trinity Choir. Located at the head of Wall Street near the 9/11 Memorial. Visit trinitywallstreet.org for the full Easter schedule.
Riverside Church
Easter worship in a magnificent interdenominational church overlooking the Hudson River. Known for its stunning tower (the tallest church tower in the US) and powerful choral music. Visit trcnyc.org for Easter service times.
St. Thomas Church Fifth Avenue
A beautiful French Gothic church right on the Easter Parade route. Famous for its professional Choir of Men and Boys, which performs spectacular Easter music. Attend a service then step outside straight into the parade. Visit saintthomaschurch.org for schedule.
Special Activities & Shows
Radio City Music Hall Easter Spectacular
Check radiocity.com for any special Easter programming at this iconic venue. While the Easter show isn't annual, Radio City occasionally features spring and Easter-themed performances.
Easter at the New York Botanical Garden
Spring flower shows, family garden activities, and Easter-themed nature programming in one of the world's premier botanical gardens. The orchid show typically runs through spring. Check nybg.org for specific Easter weekend programming.
Easter Weekend at Chelsea Market
Browse artisanal Easter treats, chocolate eggs, and spring baked goods from Chelsea Market's specialty food vendors. Several shops offer Easter-themed products and treats perfect for baskets and gifts.
Key Easter 2026 Dates
- March – April: Easter Bunny photos at Macy's, Brookfield Place, and area malls
- March 29: Palm Sunday services
- April 2: Maundy Thursday services
- April 3: Good Friday services
- April 4: Easter egg hunts across the city (Saturday before Easter)
- April 5: Easter Sunday — Easter Parade on Fifth Ave, church services, and brunches citywide