Have you been wondering what to do this summer besides going to the beach or going out on the boat? Here in New York, there is so much to offer, making your summer as diversified and exciting as possible. Below are some events going on in New York that you must cross of your bucket list before the calendar strikes to September!
Dance the night away at the 1920’s themed Jazz Age Lawn Party, a spectacular summer tradition! This exotic event will take place on August 13th and 14th at Governor’s Island. Bring to life original records from the 1920’s, learn the trendiest dance steps of the time, and win prizes at carnival games for junior gents and flapperetts just to name a few. Don’t forget about the cocktails! Sip on prohibition-era cocktails like a classic St-Germain with mineral water and a glass of bubbly and none of the black-alley hooch of the day. Step onto the ferry, and back into time with thousands of others dressed to the 1920’s nines. This event is one that you can’t miss and one of the best things to do besides the best New York beaches and rooftop bars in NYC.
If you’re wondering exactly what’s going down at this dance party, it is a 1920’s themed party where attendees are encouraged to wear “period” dress, try classic cocktails and dance along to live jazz! If you’re unfamiliar with Governor’s Island, it is at the Colonel’s Row. Did someone say cocktails earlier? There are a variety of cocktails being served including a drink by Flatiron Lounge co-owner Julie Reiner called Americano de Robert, which pays homage to the founder of St-Germain Robert Cooper. Other original cocktails include Strike Up the Band, a Collins-style cocktail with strawberries and gin, and Flapper’s Delight, a summer fizz with elderflower and juniper. In case you get hungry from all this fun there will be new food vendors Melt Bakery, Mom’s Cooking and an artistic taste offer up tasty bite among usual mainstays. Not only is there tasty food but you can also purchase merchandise. Lawngoers can shop exciting vintage merchants like Goddess Godette, which specializes in sustainable hats and dresses, and J. Press, a classic menswear brand started at Yale in 1902. Both are participating in the outdoor fest for the first time. To top it off, there will also be performers including Dreamland Follies and the Canarsie Wobblers in addition to Arnell and his indispensable Jazz Age Orchestra. Now you get to be F. Scott Fitzgerald and write your own story taking place in the 1920’s!
Have no fear, Shakespeare is here in New York! Created by the late Joseph Papp in 1962, the Public Theater’s series offers free, yes free, large-scale productions of works by William Shakespeare (as well as the occasional musical or non-Shakespearean drama). The productions often feature some of the most talented actors of our day. Past casts have included including Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Al Pacino, Blythe Danner, Philip Seymour Hoffman, George C. Scott and Denzel Washington. If you’re wondering when it takes place, show up any time before August 14th and you will be sure to catch a performance on Tuesday’s through Sunday’s at 8 pm with a few exceptions. So be sure to catch a glimpse of Shakespeare’s most famous pieces!
Pride week means a number of things to different people. In New York City, The March will be celebrated on June 26th and begins at 26th Street and Fifth Avenue. The first march was held in 1970 and has since become an annual civic rights demonstration. Over the years, its purpose has broadened to include recognition of the fight against AIDS and to remember those we have lost to illness, violence, and neglect. Be a part of the march and get out in the streets for the biggest pride celebration in the world!
What better way to celebrate fourth of July then in New York? Come celebrate the big 40th anniversary and look back at four decades of fireworks glory. Not only will there be fireworks but there will also be performers including an exhilarating new arrangement of America the Beautiful, with vocals by Jennifer Holliday and the USAF Band.
Top off your July with Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July Hotdog Eating Contest. The people attending this contest will gather by the thousands at the corner of Surf and Stillwell in Coney Island, NY to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Nathan’s Famous by playing witness to the most unique sporting competition in the world. Flock to Nathan’s flagship restaurant to catch a glimpse of these hot dog eating legends and the celebration that is uniquely American as it is Nathan’s.
As you can see, there are tons of ways to celebrate this summer and make unforgettable memories! The beach is fun and so is a concert but why not learn about some of the culture in the city that never sleeps? You will never get bored when coming to New York as there is something to fit everyone’s interest! Be sure to attend at least one of these remarkable events this summer!
Great article !