***Sept 13 Update: This reservation site is for special arrangements made for VIP of Alabama A&M University who have requested just their room, and Thanksgiving Dinner seating. We hope you have a wonderful time!

Please see alacarte items also available, if you wish. Thank you!

Lee Lafleur; Performing Arts Consultants

Lee@usafest.org

Your Alabama A&M University Maroon & White Marching Band is going to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and so can YOU, to cheer them on as parents, friends, family, and alumni!

Share in the traditions of this World Class event with the band through their tour partner, Performing Arts Consultants. PAC has taken top-notch bands to this amazing parade for over thirty years and now, we're getting ready to take your Marching A&M!

Four Day, Three Night Packages to NYC and the Parade staying in the heart of the City at the beautiful Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan hotel from (varies) Monday, November 20 through Friday, November 24, 2023 are available to cheer-on your Maroon & White!

What a trip this is going to be...!

***UPDATE JUNE 1: BROADWAY SHOWS AND EXCURSIONS HAVE ALSO BEEN ADDED, first-come, first-served. Limited quantities! Write me if one sells-out and you'd like to go. I'll see what I can do! Detail below!

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The most popular holiday parade in America, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a Big Apple tradition since 1924. Attracting more than 3.5 million people to the streets of New York City each year, as well 50 million TV viewers nationwide, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has become so synonymous with Thanksgiving tradition in NYC that it's often shortened to "The Macy's Day Parade." 

Please note that all pricing shown is 'per person" so if you're reserving for two people, select two travelers and list each of your names. 3-for-3, 4-4, etc. Five or more travelers will require two rooms (write me to assist you with that!).
 

Additional room nights before and after our trip dates are also available if you'd like to see more of New York City during your stay. Please see "add-ons" for these nights at time of booking! If you need more nights than we're offering, let us know as we'll have them!

***Did you know that the Alabama A&M Dancers will be performing on stage at Radio City Music Hall just before the Radio City Christmas Spectacular Show? YOUR ticket to see them on-stage  is also included in the FIVE NIGHT packages! 

Questions? Write us (me) at Lee@usafest.org. Please give me a day or two to respond but, I most certainly will! 

Join the band in New York City for the most fabulous of parades, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2023!

PS: Those NOT in the hotel, will receive alacarte tickets in the mail or via email closer to the event. Those in the hotel, will be directed to pick-up tickets at YTBD times in the hotel lobby at check-in. Thanks! 

Right in the "Heart" of the action!

You'll be staying in the heart of New York City’s Theater District and Times Square at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan located in the heart of Times Square  directly on Broadway between 48th and 49th Streets. Just beyond your front doors are Fortune 500 companies, and the best shopping, theater and historical attractions in the city. Times Square, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and the greatest musical theater anywhere in the world are mere steps away. 

Performing Arts Consultants (PAC) has negotiated competitive rates during this peak NYC week that includes complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini continental breakfast, the mandatory NYC baggage handling fees (welcome to NYC!), resort fees, and, occupancy/state/local taxes). It's a beautiful hotel in the perfect location for you to see all there is to see in NYC! All packages include all fees and taxes.

Additional nights to our base packages are available before and after our scheduled event dates. Why not take advantage of them?

When YOU see a great flight price to La Guardia, Kennedy, or Newark…grab it! If you need help or assistance securing airfare, seek out the airline direct to book your “best deal.” We recommend internet sites like kayak.com or expedia.com, etc, to find your best fare! AIrfare is not included in our packages.

**NOTE that MOST AIRFARES ARE NOT AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE UNTIL 330 days out.

As you’ll be booking your own airfare, you'll also want to look at arranging your airport transportation as well. There are a variety of options from shuttle buses, to Uber/Taxi, to city bus/subway combinations available to get you to Manhattan and the Crowne Plaza Times Square hotel. It's not difficult at all to get to the heart of Manhattan, and not too expensive either by Air Train, subway, or bus.

As example, the Uber fare from LGA to the Crowne Plaza is approximately $46.00 ($23.00 each if two of you, $15.00 each if three, etc). Air Train, subway, bus combinations are as little as $12.00 pp and easy to maneuver. Use these numbers in budgeting your expense and Google your route for New York area airport transportation specifics..

PAC will publish our recommendations for transit and directions from all airports, closer to the event.

OPTION: Join the Band Monday night with transportation from the Crowne Plaza Hotel to the Spirit of New York (or the Spirit of New Jersey) DInner Cruise with your Alabama A&M!

We'll board at Chelsea Pier then cruise across the Hudson to pick-up the band near THEIR hotel. Please note that the Dinner Cruise is limited to the first 220 travelers registered (space limitation). Once these are sold, additional parade packages will be without the cruise (at an adjusted price).

Sail up-close to the Statue of Liberty, under the Brooklyn Bridge, and up the Hudson and East river for amazing views of the Manhattan skyline while enjoying an unforgettable buffet dinner onboard with the band. BOOK EARLY TO GUARANTEE THIS CRUISE!

Spirit Cruises by Hornblower are always make a fun night!

TRANSPORTATION from The Crowne Plaza at 6PM included! 

OPTION: Join the band on TUESDAY 11/21 at 2PM at Radio City Music Hall for the "Christmas Spectacular" featuring the world famous Rockettes and of course, Santa Claus. Your ticket is included!

You never forget the memories you make at the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes. From the moment you walk into Radio City Music Hall to the very last dazzling dance number, experience the magic that only Rockettes can create. Bring your family for a one-of-a-kind tradition, where wooden soldiers dance, ice skaters glide, snowflakes swirl—and the unmistakable spirit of Christmas in New York City comes alive. Enjoy this Friday performance, with the band. 

Radio City Music Hall is located just a couple of blocks from your paxkage hotel! 

We’re staying just off the parade route in the heart of Manhattan and suggest you, your friends and family get an early start to find their best viewing for the parade. We'll send you parade viewing guides as we closer to the date! Bleacher seats to this parade just aren't available and are closely managed by Macy's (and not for sale).

This guide is a year old, but is one of the best we've seen with tips for watching the parade. This information is still valid! https://luxeadventuretraveler.com/tips-for-viewing-the-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade/

We’ve seen a few commercial vendors selling everything from simple reserved parade viewing to gourmet all you can eat and drink packages at $500.00 or more. Most/All grandstand seats are NOT FOR SALE and most parade viewing, unless you're well-connected, is from the street.

There will be plenty of opportunity to line-up, and see the parade!

PAC has arranged group pricing for several Broadway shows and City Excursions/tours for our Friends and Family of Alabama A&M. You may book these as "Options" to your package while supplies last (some quantities limited). AUG 20 UPDATE: Please note, some have sold out.

** (Our Featured Excursion!)**

Harlem Renaissance Walking Tour w/Lunch

Exclusively Arranged for Alabama A&M Friends and Family!

Embark on a journey through present-day Harlem – see the people and places of the Harlem Renaissance, and discover why this time in American history was so magical and vital for African-American culture.

Delve into the depths of this time in American history with local and extremely knowledgeable guides. Experience some of the most beautiful theaters, ballrooms, and churches in Harlem. Visit the Abyssinian Baptist Church, Alhambra Ballroom, Hotel Theresa and many more. Learn about the numerous jazz clubs, speakeasies and people associated with them along the way uptown

Learn about the importance of the 135th Street area to African-Americans in Harlem. Find out where Langston Hughes is buried and the location of Swing Street/Jungle Alley...and more.

Requires a short subway ride (with your guide) and YOUR subway ticket (easily available as we board).

Meet: 9:30am in Hotel Lobby

Conclude: 12:30pm

Friday, November 24 Only

Includes Lunch in Harlem

Price: $65.00

Forty places available only (40).

Please note that this tour ends around 1PM on Friday. If you are flying Friday, flights after 4PM please!

Top Of The Rock Observation Center

Believe the hype. Top of the Rock’s three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks deliver spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline. With terraces facing east, west, north, and south, Top of the Rock’s panoramic sights make it the ultimate observation deck in NYC. At the pinnacle of 30 Rockefeller Plaza’s 70 floors, it’s one of the top things to do in New York City.

The Top of the Rock experience is being reimagined and exciting new additions to the observation decks are on the horizon. While we are under construction, you can still expect the same fantastic views, but please note that access to specific areas may be limited while we work hard to bring new features to Top of the Rock.

Top of the Rock Timed Entry on either:

Monday, Nov 20 at 3PM (shortly after landing in NYC & Before the welcome Dinner Cruise)

Tuesday, Nov 21 at 11AM (just before the nearby Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular Show (show is included in all 5-night packages).

Meet: At the Top of the Rock entrance (a shoer walk from the hotel).  

30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112

Enter on 50th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Allow 60-90 minutes for your experience.

Price: $43.00

Disney's Aladdin on Broadway!

The entire A&M Band is going to the show; this day and time. Although not seated with them, your seats will be in Front Mezzanine to enjoy this spectacular Broadway event for all ages.

When: Wednesday, November 22 at 2PM (matinee)

Located in: New Amsterdam Theater

Address:  214 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036 (a short walk from the hotel)

Seating: Front Mezzanine

Price: $220.00

Forty seats are available, only. (40)

MJ The Musical (Michael Jackson)  *SOLD OUT

He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry has finally arrived on Broadway in a brand-new musical. Centered around the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, and created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Jackson into legendary status.

When: Friday, November 24 at 2PM (matinee)

Located in: The Neil SImon Theater

Address: 250 W52nd Street. New York, NY 10036 (a short walk from the hotel)

Seating: Orchestra

Price: $229.00

Twenty seats are available, only. (20)

Back To The Future on Broadway **SOLD OUT

Marty McFly is a rock ‘n’ roll teenager who is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-travelling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. But before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. Just like in the movies but...better!

Located in: The Winter Garden Theater

Address: 1634 Broadway. New York, NY 10036 (a short walk from the hotel)

Seating: Mezz one. Mezz two

Price: $169 Mezz 1; $149 Mezz 2

Twenty seats are available, only. (20)

Chicago on Broadway! **SOLD OUT

Set in the legendary city during the roaring “jazz hot” 20s, Chicago tells the story of two rival vaudevillian murderesses locked up in Cook County Jail. Nightclub star Velma’s serving time for killing her husband and sister after finding the two in bed together. Driven chorus girl Roxie’s been tossed in the joint for bumping off the lover she’s been cheating on her husband with. Not one to rest on her laurels, Velma enlists the help of prison matron Mama Morton and slickster lawyer Billy Flynn, who turn Velma’s incarceration into a murder-of-the-week media frenzy, thus preparing the world for a splashy showbiz comeback. But Roxie’s got some of her own tricks up her sleeve… A Broadway Classic!

Located in: Ambassador Theatre

Address: 219 W49th Street. New York, NY 10036 (a short walk from the hotel)

Seating: Orchestra 2

Price: $149

Fourteen Seats are available, only. (14)

All shows and excursion pricing includes all taxes and booking fees. Credit card fees may still apply at checkout.

A MINIMUM OF TEN Broadway Tickets to each show must be sold (10) to receive group rate pricing.

Included for VIP's!

The Chart House Restaurant located on the Hudson River directly across from Manhattan is yours for Thanksgiving dinner with the band, transportation included, and offers breathtaking views of the spectacular New York City Skyline. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

This upscale cosmopolitan, full-service restaurant is one of the most sought-after locations in New Jersey and the Alabama A&M University Band has it reserved for up to 450 performers, friends, and family on Thanksgiving night!

The Chart House Restaurant was designed to focus on the magnificent Manhattan Skyline view while tantalizing your senses with their award winning cuisine. 

***ONLY 130 FRIENDS AND FAMILY PLACES WILL BE AVAILABLE for THANKSGIVING DINNER. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. Travel packages will be updated without this dinner once these places are reserved***

Dinner and bus transportation from the Crowne Plaza NYC is included in your package  (a 30-40 minute bus ride for spectacular views at Thanksgiving dinner!).

Due to limited seating, tickets are currently only available to those traveling with the band, or participating in this Friends, Family, and Alumni offering.

If you are paying for your family member or roomate under your account, there is no need to do anything special at registration.

If your roommate is paying separately under their own account, be sure to add their name and email address when asked at checkout (important) so that we can match you up with them on the hotel rooming list.

As example, if you have two roommates staying with you in a triple room, you will pay for one traveller in a triple room (not three), and list both of your roommate names and email addresses at registration. If by chance they decide not to come however, you will be charged for a double or single room as appropriate.

 CANCELLATION POLICY

A $100.00 per person cancellation fee is applied to all reservations cancelled after February 1, 2023. Your reservation is fully refundable until then for any reason.

In consideration of non-refundable payments made by Performing Arts Consultants to tour operators, land operators, airlines and other agents associated with travel and/or festival arrangements, accommodations and/or services, the following will apply:

Cancellation for any reason PAC will refund all monies paid minus $100.00 pp through February 1, 2023.

• 60-46 DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE – an additional $50.00 per person cancellation fee PLUS any cancellation charges and non-refundable payments levied by the various vendors mentioned above (tbd).
• 45-31 DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE – an additional $100.00 per person cancellation fee PLUS any cancellation charges and non-refundable payments levied by the various vendors mentioned above (tbd).
• 30 DAYS OR LESS DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE – Absolutely NO refunds can be granted.

Trip Insurance MAY assist you with coverage for cancellation.

PAYMENT POLICY

Upon receipt of your invoice, please mark the payment dates on your calendar to maintain a punctual payment schedule. WeTravel will send notices in reminder. Payments are timed to when PAC needs to pay vendors for your fabulous trip! 

Late payments for any reason are subject to a $25.00 late payment fee which we don't really want to collect!

Checks may be entered online, in additional to most credit cards at WeTRavel.com

Click Here For Our Full Terms and Conditions

As the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a truly special event, the above stated cancellation fees supersede those in the link above for this event.

Whereas PAC is not an insurance company, you may purchase trip insurance for the value of you trip at third-party sited if you would like. We often use Travel Insured (click link) who can quote your insurance price and coverage online based on the value of your trip. Travel Insurance, if desired, can be secured directly through them, or your preferred vendor.

Coverage and regulations have changed quite a bit in the Covid era so please, read your coverage documents carefully with whomever you choose! PAC does not see trip insurance directly for adult groups, such as this one.