12 Awesome Events in NYC
Get to know another side of NYC by checking out these amazing events
6 Min Read
6 Min ReadNew York is an exciting place. It’s called the “city that never sleeps” for good reason. Something is always happening, so boredom will never be an issue, especially with all the events going on. Undoubtedly, New York is expensive, but, as most New Yorkers will tell you, it’s worth it. Check out this list of great events in NYC. We’ve picked one out for you every month and provided a few alternatives too.
January
Three Kings Day Parade
Every year, El Museo del Barrio holds a parade that is the biggest Three Kings Day celebration in NYC. The parade features community leaders in bright costumes posing as the Three Wise Men, accompanied by colorful puppets, sheep, camels, and even a donkey.
February
New York Fashion Week (Fall/Winter)
One of the most popular events in NYC, fashion week is all about great designers showcasing their latest fall styles. The biggest names in fashion launch their collections at this event for the pleasure of industry insiders and celebrities.
To attend this event, you need to make it onto a guest list. The other option is to watch it on TV. However, you can enjoy other events in NYC in February, such as the Lunar New Year Parade and Festival, the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, and Amateur Night at the Apollo.
March
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
First held in 1762, the St. Patrick’s Day parade is the oldest, but also one of the largest events in NYC. The Archbishop of New York officiates the parade, which is meant to celebrate the Catholic faith and Irish culture.
The parade starts at 11 a.m. and is led by the National Guard 69th Infantry Regiment along Fifth Avenue, from 44th St. to 79th St. You can also attend other events in NYC in March. Asia Week New York, the Big East Tournament, the New York International Children’s Film Festival, and the Art Show shouldn’t be missed.
April
Tribeca Film Festival
Robert De Niro, among others, launched the Tribeca Film Festival after 9/11 to help Lower Manhattan recover. It has become a very important event in the entertainment world. The festival celebrates culture, film, and music. More than 100 films from all over the world are screened at the festival. You can even catch outdoor showings that are free.
Other April events in NYC that you can check out include the Easter Parade, the New York International Auto Show, and the Cherry Blossom Festival.
May
Shakespeare in the Park
Shakespeare in the Park has become an NYC institution since it first started in 1962. Since then, more than five million people have attended the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. So, if you love Shakespeare’s plays, this is the perfect event for you because you can attend outdoor productions for free. Many of the plays feature well-known actors.
Other events in NYC you should check out include the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, the NYCxDESIGN, and Bronx Week.
June
Celebrate Brooklyn
This outdoor arts festival has been running for over four decades, making it one of the longest-running events in NYC. You’ll be able to enjoy free music, theater, dance, and film. The festival also features projects that have been specifically commissioned for the event.
Some other events you can enjoy in June include Pride Week, the New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks, the River to River Festival, and the Big Apple Barbecue Block Party.
July
Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks
Considered one of the most amazing fireworks displays in the country, this is one show you shouldn’t miss. You’ll celebrate Independence Day with pyrotechnics and music. There’s no better way to do it. Grab a spot on the waterfront and you’ll have a blast.
Other July events in NYC include Broadway in Bryant Park, Summer at Lincoln Center, and Harlem Week.
August
Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
The perfect festival to see something a little different, the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival brings together 200 teams to compete in this unforgettable race. It’s one of the biggest dragon boat festivals in the U.S. You’ll be able to enjoy more than the competition though. The festival also offers martial arts demonstrations, crafts, international music, cuisine, and dance.
You can also enjoy the Summer Streets, the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival, and the US Open Tennis tournament.
September
Feast of San Gennaro
For an amazing time, you can’t miss the Feast of San Gennaro, the patron Saint of Naples. For eleven days, Little Italy in Manhattan becomes even more exciting than usual. Parades, great food, and amazing entertainment are all on offer.
If you live in the area, you’ll be even luckier since you can just step out onto the street for some great fun. With Blueground, you can find a great apartment in some of the best locations in New York. All the apartments are beautifully decorated, completely furnished, and fully equipped. You truly have the pick of the lot when it comes to homes at the heart of neighborhood life including living in the West Village steps to Washington Square Park or across the street from the Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side.
Other September events in NYC include New York Fashion Week (Spring/Summer), the New York Film Festival, and Richmond County Fair.
October
New York Comic-Con
If you love superheroes, sorcerers, and time-traveling doctors, then this is definitely the festival for you. An increasing number of people flock to Jacob K. Javits Convention Center every year to enjoy New York Comic-Con. Check it out because you’ll have plenty to enjoy, from the many costumed attendees to the awesome booths, screenings, and panels.
Other events in NYC you can check out in October include the New Yorker Festival, Archtober, and the Village Halloween Parade.
November
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
This is one parade you do not want to miss. It brings together celebrity guests, great performers, and marching bands to put on an amazing show. Then there are the balloons. It’s hard not to notice the giant characters floating down the street.
Other events in NYC in November include the New York Comedy Festival, the TCS New York City Marathon and the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
December
Times Square on New Year’s Eve
It’s the holiday season, so you’ll have plenty of events in NYC to enjoy. One of the most iconic is celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square. Watch the world-famous crystal ball drop along with a million other people, and party the night away.
Other events in December include the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting, the Lighting of the World’s Largest Hanukkah Menorahs, and Kwanzaa Celebrations.
