Events & Things To Do

March 22, 2023

12 best spots to see cherry blossoms in New York City

New York City might not be known for its cherry blossoms like D.C., but we've still got our fair share of pretty pink buds. We haven't quite hit peak bloom season yet, but with spring officially here, we're getting close. Ahead, we've rounded up the best places across the city to see cherry blossoms, from standbys like Central Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to smaller spots like Sakura Park and the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden.
Check out the full list

Events & Things To Do

Yayoi Kusama’s upcoming NYC show includes new infinity room

2019 Infinity Mirror Room; Photo by Tracie Hall on Flickr

March 17, 2023

Yayoi Kusama’s upcoming NYC show includes new infinity room

By Aaron Ginsburg

World-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama will unveil new works in New York City this summer at her largest gallery exhibition yet. The exhibition, called "Yayoi Kusama: I Spend Each Day Embracing Flowers," includes new paintings, her signature pumpkin and flower sculptures, and a new edition of Kusama's super popular Infinity Mirror Room. The exhibition, which is free and open to the public, opens on May 12 at David Zwirner's West 19th and West 20th Street galleries in Chelsea.
Find out more

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NYC looks to ‘beautify’ 191st Street tunnel again

Photo © James and Karla Murray

March 17, 2023

NYC looks to ‘beautify’ 191st Street tunnel again

By Aaron Ginsburg

Two months after painting the mural- and graffiti-covered 191st Street pedestrian tunnel white, New York City announced plans to "beautify" the underground path once again. The Department of Transportation on Thursday issued a request for proposals seeking artists to submit "bold, colorful designs" for the tunnel that reflect the "rich cultural identity of Washington Heights." The request comes after community members criticized the agency for "whitewashing" an iconic piece of the neighborhood, as Gothamist reported.
Details here

Events & Things To Do

Everything you should know about NYC’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Glucksman Ireland House NYU and NYU Pipes and Drums march in the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 2019 Credit: Kate Lord/New York University on Flickr

March 15, 2023

Everything you should know about NYC’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

By Devin Gannon

One of New York City's longest-standing traditions returns this week. On Friday, March 17, the city's 261st annual St. Patrick's Day Parade will kick off on Fifth Avenue and 44th Street and travel up to 79th Street, with roughly 150,000 marchers in tow and two million onlookers. New York City hosted one of the world's very first St. Patrick's Day parades on March 17, 1762, more than a decade prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Plan your St. Patrick's Day

Events & Things To Do

Photo of McSorley’s © James and Karla Murray

March 14, 2023

The 11 best Irish bars in New York City

By Rebecca Fishbein

Irish Americans have been a part of the New York ecosystem since the colonial era, but they cemented their stamp on this city during a period of mass migration in the 19th century. We owe a lot to the Irish—some of the city’s most beautiful buildings and cathedrals were designed and built by Irish immigrants, for instance. One of the tastier hand-me-downs was the Irish bar, replete with cheap pints, hearty grub, dark lighting, and a slate of bartenders who’ll inspire you to earn their respect. Ahead we've rounded up 11 of the best pubs, from old standbys like McSorley's and Peter McManus Cafe to some lesser-known gems like Sunset Park's Irish Haven (the bar in The Departed) and Hartley's in Clinton Hill.
Sláinte!

Newark unveils monument honoring Harriet Tubman and the city’s Underground Railroad history

Photo by DreamPlay, Photographer Cesar Melgar; Courtesy of the City of Newark Press Office

March 10, 2023

Newark unveils monument honoring Harriet Tubman and the city’s Underground Railroad history

By Devin Gannon

A new monument to abolitionist Harriet Tubman was unveiled in a Newark, New Jersey park this week. Designed by NJ native and architect Nina Cooke John, Shadow of a Face comprises a two-story welded outline of Tubman with a circular wall that features a carving of Tubman's face, along with educational text and audio. Located in the recently renamed Harriet Tubman Square on Broad Street, the new monument replaces a statue of Christopher Columbus that the city removed in 2020.
Find out more

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Women’s History Month began in New York in 1909 to honor the city’s garment workers’ strike

(1917) Picketing in all sorts of weather. N.Y. Day Picket. United States Washington D.C. New York, 1917, [Photograph] Retrieved from the Library of Congress.

March 8, 2023

Women’s History Month began in New York in 1909 to honor the city’s garment workers’ strike

By Michelle Cohen

International Women's Day, and what later became Women's History Month, originated in New York City over 100 years ago. On February 28, 1909, “Women’s Day,” was celebrated as the one-year anniversary of the city’s garment industry strike led by the International Ladies' Garment Workers’ Union. The Socialist Party of America chose the day to honor the women who bravely protested miserable labor conditions. American socialist and feminist Charlotte Perkins Gilman addressed a New York crowd, saying: "It is true that a woman's duty is centered in her home and motherhood but home should mean the whole country and not be confined to three or four rooms of a city or a state.” At the time, women still couldn't vote.
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March 8, 2023

These unique outer borough Airbnbs feel like getaways without leaving NYC

By Lidia Ryan

Kathleen Ruoti is a 73-year-old widow living on Staten Island. She started her Sweet Pea Cottage Airbnb six years ago to serve as supplemental income. "It’s a 100-year-old-old 'Hansel and Gretel' type thing — cute with a garden. I used to use it as an art studio," she said. The cottage is just one of a few short-term rental properties in New York City’s outer boroughs that not only make guests feel miles and miles away from the city but have charming stories and histories of their own. Ahead, take a look inside three unique short-term spots and hear from the owners.
See them here

The Museum of Failure exhibit is coming to Brooklyn

Images courtesy of SEE Attractions/Museum of Failure

March 8, 2023

The Museum of Failure exhibit is coming to Brooklyn

By Aaron Ginsburg

A new exhibit in Sunset Park gives an opportunity to learn about some of the biggest failures of the biggest companies. Located in Industry City, the Museum of Failure offers New Yorkers a close look at more than 130 "epic fails" by giant global corporations, including Coca-Cola, Google, and Nokia, with the intention of teaching visitors the importance of learning from your mistakes. Presented by SEE Attractions, the exhibit will be open from March 17 until May 14.
See more here

Events & Things To Do

Iconic NYC subway busker Ballerina Mime to perform at Lincoln Center

Photos by Lawrence Sumulong, © Lincoln Center

March 6, 2023

Iconic NYC subway busker Ballerina Mime to perform at Lincoln Center

By Aaron Ginsburg

A New York City busking sensation will emerge above ground to perform at Lincoln Center on Wednesday. The famed living statue the Ballerina Mime will perform alongside original chamber music from cellist Titilayo Ayangade and violist Edwin Kaplan, playing together as duo kayo. The event, called Living Statues, Living Music, will take place at the David Geffen Hall's Kenneth C. Griffin Sidewalk Studio on March 8 at 8 p.m.
See more here

Events & Things To Do

New photo exhibit explores what ‘home’ means to New Yorkers

By Devin Gannon

A photo exhibition opening this month examines what it means to make a home in New York City. Museum of the City of New York's New York Now: Home exhibit features the photography and video work of 33 artists who have captured the diverse definition of "home," be it a physical place, feeling, or chosen community. Opening on March 10, the exhibition is the first installation of an ongoing photography series at the museum.
Details this way

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New public artwork turns a Downtown Brooklyn plaza into a playful, colorful oasis

All photos courtesy of Cameron Blaylock for Downtown Brooklyn Partnership

March 3, 2023

New public artwork turns a Downtown Brooklyn plaza into a playful, colorful oasis

By Aaron Ginsburg

A new interactive public art installation in Downtown Brooklyn transforms a plaza into a colorful oasis with shimmering lights. The Downtown Brooklyn Partnership and Van Alen Institute on Wednesday unveiled "COMMON GROUND," a site-specific sculpture created by artist Cheryl Wing-Zi Wong with lighting design by Arup featuring colorful seating, sound-responsive lighting, and floor motifs that provide a vibrant space for people to gather. The installation will be on view from March 1 to May 1 at The Plaza at 300 Ashland.
Get the details

Events & Things To Do

How to celebrate Women’s History Month 2023 in NYC

Photo courtesy of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

March 2, 2023

How to celebrate Women’s History Month 2023 in NYC

By Aaron Ginsburg

Every March, Americans celebrate Women's History Month to honor the countless achievements and contributions of women nationwide. New York City, where the month-long celebration originated, has plenty of special events and happenings for those looking to show their appreciation to the women of the world. Ahead, here are some ways you can celebrate Women's History Month in NYC, from learning about the influential women behind Central Park's most iconic attractions to listening to music by trailblazing women composers at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music.
See the list

Your guide to Nomad: A new chapter for a historic Manhattan neighborhood

Photo by Jeffrey Zeldman on Flickr

February 22, 2023

Your guide to Nomad: A new chapter for a historic Manhattan neighborhood

By Michelle Cohen

No matter how old or established they may be, New York City neighborhoods are in a constant state of change. With each new chapter, boundaries shift and new architecture and commerce arrive. The Manhattan neighborhood known as Nomad (for its location north of Madison Square Park) is a fine example. Nomad became a top residential choice, as well as an international dining destination and an all-around rising star, at the beginning of the 21st century. The neighborhood stretches from approximately 25th Street to 30th Street between Sixth and Lexington Avenues, but the bounty that surrounds it in the neighborhoods of Chelsea, Midtown, Union Square, and Gramercy knows no bounds.
What to do and see, and where to live in Nomad

Events & Things To Do

February 21, 2023

15 fun spots for games and grub in NYC

By Aaron Ginsburg

With all of the unique attractions and over-the-top experiences New York City has to offer, sometimes you just want to have a more casual night. There are several spots across the city that offer fun and frivolity, along with a full food and drink menu. Ahead, find some of the best bars and social clubs that offer activities and games, from axe throwing and mini golf to ping pong and shuffleboard.
Fun, this way

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See the Garment District’s new Big Button sculpture

Photo © 6sqft

February 16, 2023

See the Garment District’s new Big Button sculpture

By Aaron Ginsburg

The Garment District's iconic button & needle sculpture has been replaced with a new, permanent art installation. The Garment District Alliance on Thursday unveiled the new Big Button sculpture on the corner of Fashion Avenue and 39th Street. Designed by Local Projects and UAP Company, the sculpture measures 28 feet tall and has a 15-foot diameter aluminum button with a bright yellow automotive finish and a 32-foot brushed stainless steel needle, honoring the neighborhood's rich history in the world of fashion.
See the button

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A mini version of NYC’s Hippo Ballerina sculpture is now in Turtle Bay

Photos courtesy of Cavalier Galleries

February 16, 2023

A mini version of NYC’s Hippo Ballerina sculpture is now in Turtle Bay

By Aaron Ginsburg

A smaller version of New York City's Hippo Ballerina sculpture debuted this week in Turtle Bay. Created by Danish artist Bjørn Okholm Skaarup, Hippo Ballerina is a 15-foot-tall sculpture that has been seen over the years in front of Grand Central Terminal, the Flatiron Building, and Lincoln Center. The new mini sculpture, along with Hippo Ballerina, pirouette and Rhino Harlequin, pirouette, can now be found in front of the skyscraper at 885 Second Avenue in Midtown through March 2024.
See more here

Events & Things To Do

NYBG’s 20th annual orchid show is inspired by ancient Chinese garden design

Photos courtesy of the New York Botanical Garden

February 15, 2023

NYBG’s 20th annual orchid show is inspired by ancient Chinese garden design

By Aaron Ginsburg

The New York Botanical Garden's treasured orchid show returns this month for its 20th year. Designed by guest artist Lily Kwong, The Orchid Show: Natural Heritage transforms the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory with thousands of orchids and a fantastical landscape inspired by ancient Chinese garden design and artistic principles. Tickets are on sale now for the show, which opens Saturday, February 18, and runs through April 23.
See more here

Events & Things To Do

February 14, 2023

Tours of NYC’s old City Hall subway station return this spring

By Aaron Ginsburg

After a three-year pandemic hiatus, in-person tours of New York City's abandoned City Hall subway station are returning this spring. The station, which is where the first ever subway ride departed in 1904, has been decommissioned since the 1940s. The New York Transit Museum has exclusive access to the station and offers 90-minute tours that explore its ornate vaulted Guastavino tiled ceilings, chandeliers, and skylights. Tickets will go on sale this March and are only available to members of the museum.
Get the details

Photo of The Lodge at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park courtesy of Colin Miller

February 10, 2023

Where to watch the Super Bowl in NYC

By Aaron Ginsburg

This Sunday, the Kansas City Chiefs will go head-to-head with the Philadelphia Eagles during Super Bowl LVII. Luckily, New York City has a nearly endless selection of game-day watch party events and food specials to enjoy. Ahead, find some of the best spots across the five boroughs to watch the big game (or just the commercials), from kicking back with a cigar at the Upper East Side's swanky Merchants Cigar Bar to playing ping pong at SPIN New York in the Flatiron District.
See the spots

50 Valentine’s Day gifts that are not roses and candy

Photo by alleksana on Pexels

February 8, 2023

50 Valentine’s Day gifts that are not roses and candy

By Terri Williams

First, let’s dispel a Valentine’s Day gift myth: you really don’t have to buy roses, candy, and lingerie every year. Take this opportunity to get a gift your loved one will really appreciate - and for more than just a few hours or a few days. In fact, with the right long-term gift, they’ll think of your thoughtfulness every time they use that item - and what’s more romantic than that? So, instead of 50 roses, we found 50 great Valentine’s Day Gifts that are both practical and fun.
What to give your Valentine

Queens Night Market returns this April with $6 price cap on all food items still in place

Queens Night Market, Photo by Storm Garner

February 8, 2023

Queens Night Market returns this April with $6 price cap on all food items still in place

By Devin Gannon

While the price of food continues to increase at grocery stores and restaurants, one market in New York City is keeping consumer costs low. When the Queens Night Market opens for its eighth season this April, the open-air food market will maintain its popular price cap of $5 or $6 on all food items. Vendors will be able to stay affordable this year because of a sponsorship from Citizens bank, according to John Wang, the founder of the Queens Night Market.
Details here

Events & Things To Do

February 6, 2023

22 local and unique Valentine’s Day gift ideas

By Michelle Cohen

It's easy to find a heart-shaped box of candy around Valentine's Day. Locating a box of caviar paired with modern glassware, a private tasting of locally-brewed craft beer, or dinner at 1,776 feet above lower Manhattan might take a bit of doing. We've done the legwork and picked a list of beyond-the-ordinary ways to say "I love you," while staying in a New York state of mind (plus a few global finds).
Find romance in retail, this way

A pop-up roller disco is opening at Brooklyn’s Atlantic Terminal Mall

Rendering courtesy of The Roller Wave

February 3, 2023

A pop-up roller disco is opening at Brooklyn’s Atlantic Terminal Mall

By Devin Gannon

An indoor roller rink is coming to the heart of Brooklyn. Set to open on February 11 at the Atlantic Terminal Mall, The Roller Wave will offer a 24,000-square-foot venue with skating, live performances, DJs, food and beverage options, and an arcade. Founded by NYC native Harry Martin, the Roller Wave is a traveling pop-up roller skating experience. The rink, which will be open through June 4, will be the Roller Wave's first true location.
Get the details

Events & Things To Do

Heart-shaped hedges blossom with real roses as part of Valentine’s Day installation in Times Square

Photo by Jonathan Hokklo

February 2, 2023

Heart-shaped hedges blossom with real roses as part of Valentine’s Day installation in Times Square

By Devin Gannon

Love is in bloom in Times Square this February. As part of its 15th annual Love & Design competition, Times Square Arts on Wednesday unveiled a new public art installation on Duffy Square that invites visitors to get lost in love. This year's winner, Almost Studio, created an interactive configuration of four artificial hedge rows that form a maze-like structure with heart-shaped interiors. Called Love’s h|Edge, the sculpture features illuminated benches and trellises, the latter of which will be filled with fresh roses by passersby.
Take a look