Celebrate spring in the best city in the world- New York- and read about some of the concrete jungle’s featured events.
Village Art
A traditional springtime event, the, Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit, which takes place in the Village, was founded all the way back in 1931 in order to give up and coming artists and photographers the opportunity to showcase their work. With over 125 participants, this event is surely a do-not-miss. Who says all the good art is at the Met anyway? University Pl between W 3rd and E 13th Sts (212-982-6255,wsoae.org). May 26-28, June 2, 3 noon-6pm; free.
Bring Your Appetite
Merging the thrills of food trucks and outdoor festivals is the two-day NInth Avenue International Food Festival. In over 200 stalls, you can shop and check out food carts from local spots such as Justin Timberlake’s Southern Hospitality, or stop in a beer garden for a well deserved beverage. Once you’re stuffed, work some of it off by taking part in an international music and dance performance.
Ninth Ave from 42nd to 57th Sts (ninthavenuefoodfestival.com). May 19, 20 noon–5pm; free.
The Theater for New York City is hosting the 17th annual Lower East Side Festival for the Arts. This showcases playwrits’ works, puppeteers, and various performers, along with a downtown art scene. And of course, no festival is complete without a street fair- so grab some grub while you take in the fine arts scene.
(10th St between First and Second Aves; May 26 noon–6pm) on Saturday afternoon. Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave between 9th and 10th Sts (212-254-1109, theaterforthenewcity.net). May 25 6pm–1am; May 26 noon–1am; May 27 4pm–midnight. Free.
Give back to a good cause while visiting the Big Apple! Join the fight against AIDS by participating in the AIDS Walk New York. This fundraising event is the largest single-day event benefiting AIDS in the entire world. The proceeds go to the Gay Men’s Health Crisis and various other tristate-area AIDS service organizations, with its intent to bring awareness to this serious epidemic which affects so many. Registration is free, and teams of two or more are encouraged to raise funds through pledges and sponsorship. The 10K walkathon starts and ends in Manhattan’s Central Park- a major focal point of the city as an added bonus. Enter at 59th St at Fifth Ave (212-807-9255, aidswalk.net/newyork). May 20 at 9am; free.
Hello to Hallo Berlin! This midtown beer garden is recognized as one of Manhattan’s gems. Complete with schnitzel and sausages, pair these delicious dishes with your choice of exotic beers. This is absolutely a perfect way to spend an afternoon with the opportunity to mingle with the locals and really get a feel for New York City culture. 626 Tenth Ave. Midtown West. Phone: 212-977-1944
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