NYC Events to Attend in the Month of May

Man giving a tour of the High line in New York City pointing upwards at a building.
Photo: courtesy The High Line

As the temperatures begin to warm up (and this rain hopefully wanes), one of our favorite months in NYC brings with it a variety of events and festivals—more than we could hope to attend. There is something for every age and taste, from food tastings and wine samplings, to dog festivals! Below we list the five activities we’re looking forward to the most in May. So, get out your calendar, and clear some time to attend these great events in NYC.

crowd of people walking through an exhibit, examining artwork
Photo: courtesy Frieze

Frieze Art Fair

Fortunately for you, Frieze Art Fair is bringing together the world’s freshest contemporary art galleries on May 5-8 at Randall’s Island Park. Along with traversing through the artwork, visitors receive commentary when they attend a Frieze Talk, a daily panel discussion with the artists and even cultural critics, so be prepared for a lively conversation. For a true inside view, make sure to attend one of the Conversations on Collecting where visitors can pick the brain of active collectors on their unique strategy. If you are interested in learning more about the arts, the reading room is for you where you will find art publications of all kinds. After visiting the art fair, make your way to the restaurants, such as New Yorker’s favorites Marlow & Sons, El Rey and Cosme.

people drinking wine outdoors at a festival

Spring Wine Festival

Feel like you need to wine down? Yes, we said wine, not wind! Attend the Spring Wine Festival May 7th at NYY Steak for a celebration of wine in Midtown. For three hours, taste and sip on an assortment of over 150 wines; don’t worry there are plenty of  h’orderves  for in between snacking. With such a wide selection,there are sure to be ones you have never tried! If you get a bitter aftertaste, be sure to cleanse your palate before moving on to the next sample. A live jazz band will be performing in the background to keep the festival lively.As a bonus, each guest gets to take home a custom wine glass. You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy an event like this. In fact, it’s great for wine newbies to learn what they like and don’t like, and point them in the right direction the next time they’re in a wine shop. We suggest you buy your tickets in advance!

flowers blooming in spring
Photo: courtesy The High Line

Highline Garden Tour: Spring Bulbs & Blooms

Friends of the High Line present May’s offering of the Garden Tour: Spring Bulbs & Blooms on Thursday, May 12 from 6:00 P.M. to 7:15 P.M. Here’s a new way to spend your “Happy Hour”. Come enjoy an early evening stroll along the elevated urban park operated by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. See how this unused New York City Central Railroad Line is transformed into a garden of colorful Spring delight.  Discover all there is to learn about this urban garden situated above the streets of Manhattan’s West Side.  Woodland Crocus, Jean’s Appalachian Snow Flowering Dogwood, and Appalachian Red Eastern Redbud are a few of the species found on the May’s 2016 Bloom List. Although the event is free, remember to reserve your spot ASAP.

Photo: courtesy Spring Taste NYC
spring taste nyc flyer

Spring Taste NYC

Foodies, take note: The event you have been waiting is finally here! Spring Taste NYC for is on Friday, May 13th! Sample New York City’s best fare from some of our city’s best restaurants and bakeries at the beautiful Metropolitan Pavilion. *one space* Quench your thirst with drinks and spirits from local distilleries, breweries, and wineries. The live music and entertainment acts will add to your evening’s festivities. Top NYC eateries include: Alobar, Empire Steak House, Gastroteca Astoria, Island Burger and Shakes, Sarge’s, Magnolia Bakery, Local 92, Ben & Jerry’s, Bayside Brewery, and Bronx Brewery. You’ll be dining for a cause, as part of the proceeds will be donated to the City Harvest Charity Organization. Tickets are limited, so buy yours early to ensure a seat in NYC’s major culinary celebration.

Dogs wearing costumes at festival

Bark Fest 2016

“In Dogs We Trust.” Dog lovers, mark your calendars for Bark Fest 2016, scheduled for May 22, 2016 at the Hudson River Park/Pier 97 in midtown from 2 to 8 p.m. In fact, this event is toted as the World’s Biggest Festival for Dogs and their Groupies. Check out the Beer Garden and Food Truck delights, as well as the Bark Shop’s huge selection of dog treats, note cards, books, jewelry and dog related clothing. Local artists will create a special caricature of you and your pet. Bark Fest takes also takes dog parks to a whole different level: pup putt golf takes a spin on the old game of “FETCH”. DJs and live entertainment featuring Great Caesar and Tanlines will be on the Main Stage. Not to mention, celebrity dogs will be present too. Most importantly, local shelters and animal rescues from across the city will assist you with adopting your newest family addition!

So… do any of those events interest you? If so, paws and let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

Posted in manhattan living, NYC Events |