If you are looking for some respite from the outside world, have we got a treat for you. Check out some of these amazing November events you can experience from your living room, computer, or handheld device. Of course the weather is beautiful in Southern California, but when you need an escape from spending time outdoors we have you covered. From festivals celebrating music, chocolate, and tequila – not all at once, unfortunately – to a toy and game fair, an online Turkey Trot, and of course the legendary Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, there are oodles of exceptionally cool and interesting things to do in November.

Boston New Music Festival

October 29 – November 15

For the first time, Boston’s vibrant contemporary music scene will be on full virtual display featuring performances from some of the city’s brightest musical acts as part of the Boston New Music Festival. Running October 29^th through November 15^th, there are two weeks of jam-packed performances you may experience through a multitude of streaming platforms, including Zoom, Facebook Live, YouTube Live, and others. From opera to electronic-infused percussion, string quartets, ensembles, and more.

For the full scoop in this captivating digital deep-dive into groundbreaking music, including a page with links to all of the performance streams, visit the Boston New Music Festival’s website.

Texas Book Festival

October 31 – November 15

If you are a bookworm this is the virtual festival for you. The Texas Book Festival boasts 2 weeks of free online programming for all ages, including sessions dedicated exclusively for adults, young adults, and kids of various reading levels. Over 125 authors, poets, illustrators, journalists, and artists will make appearances, including Matthew McConaughey, David Chang, Kevin Kwan, Erin Brockovich, Dean Koontz, Ibi Soboi, and countless others. In addition, there is a Texas Teen Book Festival taking place on October 31^st and November 1^st, featuring discussions with Young Adult authors and keynote speakers Nic Stone and Elizabeth Acevedo geared toward teenage readers.

For the full library of details, including the calendar of events and author lineup, the Texas Book Festival website has you covered.

LA Tequila Fest

November 6

Line up some of the finest premium tequilas around and learn about their qualities from Maestros de Tequila at LA Tequila Fest. Held virtually over Zoom, this warming festival features a pre-shipped flight of 6 premium tequilas, a commemorative shot glass, live virtual entertainment, swag from festival partners, and live giveaways. Tickets are $65 per entry, with all proceeds benefiting Andres and Maria Cardenas Family Foundation, offering scholarships to students from underserved communities.

For the full lineup of tastings and to purchase tickets, check out the festival’s event page.

NOLA Film Festival

November 6-22

If you want to explore the eclectic world of film, head down to the Bayou for the New Orleans Film Festival – virtually, of course. Screening an array of over 160 intriguing films of all genres and styles online plus live-streaming events, you have endless hours of unique pieces of art to explore. Virtual passes are available or you can purchase streams individually.

For the full details, including to purchase your virtual pass and explore the films available to watch virtually, check out the New Orleans Film Society website.

Northwest Chocolate Festival

November 7 & 8

Sweeten your early November plans by indulging in the virtual edition of the Northwest Chocolate Festival on November 7^th and 8^th. This free two-day tribute to all things chocolate has a packed lineup of confectionery perfection, including kitchen demonstrations, tastings, virtual tours of cacao farms and production facilities, holiday gift ideas, and more.

It’s also worth noting that you if you want to keep the festival fun going all year you may purchase a monthly subscription to the chocolate club for you or as a gift for that chocolate lover in your life through the festival’s website. This service delivers curated artisan chocolates directly to your door, inclusive of 3 chocolate bars and a special bonus gift each month.

You can see the full schedule at the festival’s website to plan out which sessions pique your interest.

Southern Utah Yoga Fest

November 13 & 14

The holidays can be a stressful time, so why not unwind and pick up some wellness tips before they ramp up by attending the virtual Southern Utah Yoga Fest. Taking place on November 13^th and 14^th, this 2-day festival offers over 15 different instructors teaching more than 20 classes on yoga, meditation, wellness, sound healing, and more. Tickets to the festival range from $45 to $70, depending on which days you want to experience. The virtual edition this year also includes an option to purchase a swag bag with goodies shipped to your door.

If you can’t attend the virtual classes live or want to enjoy them again, you can check out a digital pass that allows you to re-watch the classes for a full year for $45.

Visit the website for the full details on the festival, including the schedule of events and to purchase tickets.

Chicago Toy and Game Fair

November 21-22

Whether you are a kid or a kid at heart, the Chicago Toy and Game Fair is a spectacle to behold. Spanning 2 fun-filled days featuring immersive experiences, interactive exhibits, activities for all ages, and the history of some of our favorite toys, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Check out the festival’s website for the schedule of events and to sign up for free tickets. The website also has tons of cool resources and activities for kids to enjoy at home.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

November 26

A Thanksgiving Day tradition lives on this year as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be broadcast live on NBC from 9am to noon. Known for its incredible floats, performers, and giant helium balloons parading down 34^th Street, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will bring some normalcy to an otherwise unusual year and start your Thanksgiving celebration with some true flair. The parade’s website has all kinds of fun goodies on it, including a history of the parade, resources for parents, and updates on floats and balloons that will be making an appearance in this year’s parade.

Martha’s Village Thanksgiving Day 5K Your Way

November 26

The desert’s Thanksgiving Day 5K returns in a virtual format this year as the Martha’s Village Thanksgiving Day “5K Your Way” gets you active so you earn that second helping of pie. Instead of one day to complete the race, participants have from November 26^th through the 29^th to put in their miles. Whether you get your race in Thanksgiving morning or not, all proceeds from the race go to Martha’s Village and their effort to stomp out hunger in the Coachella Valley.

For more information on the race, including to register, visit the Martha’s Village Thanksgiving Day 5K website.