With the Spring season in full swing, New York City is already starting to come alive, with milder weather, warm breezes, and noticeably more tour groups. Children are again outside playing, and residents of the city have gathered at beloved parks to engage in sports games or to just relax. Spring is when you New York comes alive, and to experience it, is refreshing. If you’re looking to keep up the momentum, taking advantage of this great weather, or perhaps, planning a visit to the Big Apple, here are some of the most exciting things taking place in the city.
Sakura Matsuri: April 30-May 1, 2016
While DC will be hosting the National Cherry Blossom festival–a commemoration of Tokyo’s gift of cherry trees to the nation’s capital over a hundred years ago–New York City will have its own celebration in April, as it has since 1981, marking the end of Hanami: the Japanese celebration of spring, which translates, literally, to “flower viewing.” The two-day event will take place in the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, which has over 30 varieties of cherry trees. There will be live music, history, and lots of events for everyone in the family. It’s one of the most popular attractions in the city. Check here for more information.
Tribeca Film Festival: April 13-24, 2016
Cinephiles from all over the world flock to New York City to experience this one of a kind event. Nearly half a million of them, to be exact. Started by Robert DeNiro in 2002, the festival has quickly become one of the most popular internationally, thanks to its celebrity audience and a-list panels. This year promises films from Academy Award nominee Viola Davis and Academy Award winner, Tom Hanks, as well as talks with stars like, Chris Rock and Patti Smith. The options include tickets to a single event, including films, talks, and parties, or purchase passes to attend a number of events. Visit the festival’s website for more detail.
Electric Daisy Carnival: May 14-May 15, 2016
Can’t make it out west for Indio, California’s highly popular Coachella music festival? No Worries, Electric Daisy promises to provide a remarkable experience for veterans and first-time visitors, as a celebration of music and art. The festival, produced by Insomniac Events, first made its way to New York four years ago, and attracted 45,000 guests from along the east coast, for both days of the event. This year, things are expected to be even bigger. This year, the event takes place in Queens, where there will be carnival rides, art installations, tons of people, and a great time for lovers of electronic music and raves. Check out the website for the NYC festivities to read more.
If all else fails, you can always promenade through beautiful Central Park, or the ever-expanding, modern alternative, High Line park. Times Square will certainly be up and running, and views from the Chrysler Building are stunning or Empire State are awe-inspiring at this time, with slightly less of a wait than you’d experience in the summer. Seriously, there will be no shortage of activity in America’s largest city. Right outside the door, there’s adventure waiting to take place. Join in on the action, and enjoy the season while it lasts.