Photo by Radio City Music Hall

As it was my first time to see the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular, I didn’t know what to expect, but had only heard about the marvelous, synchronized Rockettes and, of course, seen posters of their eye-level kicks on the Subway and all over New York City. And indeed, I was stunned by their perfect precision in the “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “Let Christmas Shine,” wearing their shimmering showgirl outfits. It must be every girl’s dream to become one of the famous Rockettes, reminding me of a conversation I overheard between a little girl—who wanted to join the troupe on stage—and her mother, who told her that she could not go on stage even though, of course, she was a pretty little princess. Throughout the show, Santa takes you on a magical ride to his workshop at the North Pole and the Rockettes take you on a sightseeing bus trip through the city, including Central Park and its ice skaters as well as Times Square and its bright illuminated signs. Also worth mentioning is the striking reenactment of the first Christmas, telling the tale of the birth of Jesus and the wise men’s journey to Bethlehem; the “Living Nativity” featured real camels, sheep, and even a mule on the stage! Can you believe that? The Christmas Spectacular is a MUST SEE when you’re in the city around Christmas. It made me feel like a child again, giving me goose bumps and putting me in a joyful holiday mood. It’s not only great for families, but for EVERYONE who likes Christmas. “The Radio City Christmas Spectacular” continues through December 30th at Radio City Music Hall. For more information please call (212) 307-1000, or visit www.radiocity.com.Posted by Kathi Hartwecker
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Starting November 22nd Tim Burton Art on Exhibit! Museum of Modern Art, 11 West 53rd Street (between 5th & 6th Avenue), 212-708-9400, www.moma.org

 

November 23rd thru Dec. 24th Get you holiday shopping list done at the Grand Central Holiday Gift Fair Grand Central Terminal, 42nd Street & Park Avenue, 212-340-2345, www.grandcentralterminal.com

Starting November 24th MET Annual Christmas Tree & Baroque Crèche Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Avenue @ 82nd Street, 212-535-7710, www.metmuseum.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 27th at 8 PM NYC Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker” Make Your Nutcracker Experience Even Sweeter By Choosing Sweet Seats. There is no sweeter way to enjoy the holidays than with a visit to George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker™. This magical production has delighted millions since 1954 and remains the touchstone for celebrating the season in New York City. Once you see it, you will never forget it. Lincoln Center Plaza-NY State Theater, 20 Lincoln Center (62nd &63rd St. on Columbus Ave.), 212-870-5570, www.nycballet.com

 

November 27th at 6 PM South Street Seaport Tree Lighting Attend one of the first major tree lightings of the season and watch the 50-foot Douglas fir light up the cobblestone streets. Then your family can “Deck the Halls” at the docks as the Big Apple Chorus, a group of barbershop doo-woppers, harmonize holiday carols. All ages. Enjoy the Tree from November 27th at 6 PM through Sunday, December 27th. Big Apple Chorus performs every Fri at 6, 7pm; Sat, Sun at 3, 4pm. South Street Seaport, Fulton St at South St (212-732-7678, southstreetseaport.com). Subway: A, C to Broadway–Nassau St; J, M, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 to Fulton St.

Whether you are a local New Yorker or a tourists just passing through, it is worth taking the time out for this event. Right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, enjoy a free night of classic movies on the big screen and picnicking among old and new friends. This event does get crowded and it can be difficult to meet up with your party, but it’s worth it. To claim a good blanket spot, arrive at 5pm promptly when the lawn does open up to the public. The featured movie will begin around sunset, which is between the hours of 8pm and 9pm. Across the street from the park, along 42^nd Street, there are many restaurants to choose from, you can also order food from “Wichcraft” that is within the premises of the park or bring your own cooking to the blanket. This year’s movie classic will feature hits such as “The Sting”, “Dog Day Afternoon”, “Harold & Maude”, Kramer vs. Kramer” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” to name a few favorites. I have been going to this event year after year and it’s a great way to spend time with friends or make it an intimate night for two. This is definitely one of the top NYC events to be a part of during the warm summer nights and best of all it’s free. For a full schedule, please visit www.bryantpark.org

Courtesy of NYC Pocket Staff

Love is in the Air

I must confess that Valentine's Day is my least favorite holiday. I find that it doesn't bring people together like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It comes across as a tattered holiday and often a filler to produce more money in cards, candies, flowers, etc during the quiet months. However, New York City tends to be a hopeless romantic around this time of year offering sights, events and other happenings worth being a part of. So whether you are a local or a tourists, here are some romatic ideas for you and your special someone:

 

The 2009 City Bakery Hot Chocolate Festival - Stay warm with the many exotic flavors of Hot Chocolate this bakery has to offer including a Love Potion Flavor. Check out details of this event at www.hot-chocolate-festival.com

 

Art & Love in Renaissance Italy - What better way to re-discover the essence of love by going back to the time period that enhanced it the most. See art work of venus & cupid and other art works that celebrate love & marriage. Exhibit ends Feb. 16th. www.metmuseum.org

 

Empire State Building - Every year at the Empire State Building, 14 couples walk down the aisle on Feb 14th. This is an event you have to plan in advance if you are considering marriage. Otherwise, relive the moments of "Sleepless in Seattle" or "An Affair to Remember" by heading up to the Observation Deck and being on top of the world with a loved one. www.esbnyc.com

 

Valentine's in Times Square - If you looking for love then look no further at the cross roads of times square. From the temporary "Valentine to Times Square" heart sculpture being exhibit from Feb 13th - 22nd at Duffy Square, to a series of Love Banners created by 12 top graphic designers and don't forget the discounted deals on restaurants and hotels or even seeing a Broadway Show in Times Square. Love will be everywhere in this area. For further details on the various events in Times Square visit www.timessquarenyc.org

 

What a week it has been for New York and the rest of the nation. From the celebrations of a new president to the events happening in NYC this week, here are a few things to check out while you are in the city: Restaurant Week Until Jan. 30th, over 250 of the finest restaurants take part in this annual event of offering discount rates or pre-fixed prices of a three-course lunch or dinner. For information on various participating restaurants, visit http://nycgo.com/restaurantweek Raphael to Renoir About 120 drawings on display showcasing about 500 yrs of Art History from the Renaissance to the 1900’s and representing a diversity of artistic schools in Italy, France, Great Britian and much more. Other famous artists included in the exhibit are Van Gogh, Degas, Goya, Rembrandt and many more as well as other less-known artists that were just as equally great. Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Avenue on 82nd Street, 212-535-7710, www.metmuseum.org On the Money: Cartoons for The New Yorker Celebrating the art of the cartoonist, On the Money: Cartoons for The New Yorker features approximately eighty original drawings by some of The New Yorker's most talented and beloved artists who have tackled the theme of money and the many ways in which it defines us. The Morgan Museum & Library, 225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street, 212-685-0008, www.themorgan.org Chinese New Year Splendor On Jan 24th & 25th, Chinese New Year Splendor returns to Radio City for 4 spectacular shows to ring in the new year! The Splendor brings to life classical Chinese dance and music in a gloriously colorful and exhilarating show. Based on ancient heroic legends and modern courageous tales, this show and its breathtaking beauty are not to be missed. Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Sixth Avenue between 50th & 51st Street, 212-307-7171, www.radiocity.com

Wednesday, December 31 / DJ Music and Dancing • 10:00 p.m. / Costume Parade and Contest • 11:00 p.m. / Fireworks and 4M Race • Midnight / Central Park, New York

Kick off the New Year with a spectacular fireworks at the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run. With a costume parade, dancing, all the rest, this four-miler is more of a party than a race. Count down the minutes ’til midnight and then count down the miles ’til the finish line.

 

Party Location

Dancing and the costume contest are at the Central Park Bandshell, just south of the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park, New York. The closest entrance is at Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street.

 

 

Course

All courses are subject to change. Check back here the day before the race for final confirmation. ??Start on Central Park’s 72nd Street Transverse and head east to East Drive. Turn left/north and continue to the 102nd Street Transverse. Turn left/west across the transverse and then left/south on West Drive. Continue to the 72nd Street Transverse, turning left/east to the finish line. Click here to view the 4-Mile course map. Visit www.nyrr.org for more information.

Tens of thousands of boating and fishing enthusiasts start their season at the New York National Boat Show. With its 104-year long history the show is recognized as THE place to see the latest and greatest in boating. From yachts and cruisers to bass and pontoon boats, from canoes and kayaks to fishing boats and personal watercraft, from electronics and engines to fishing gear, from financing and insurance to travel destinations, you'll see it here first.

WHAT: The 104^th New York National Boat Show cruises into the Javits Center December 13-21, 2008, to bring an anticipated 80,000 boating enthusiasts more than 1,000 of the newest and best in luxury motor yachts, cruising yachts, sport fishers, bass boats, performance boats, pontoon boats, personal water craft, inflatables, fishing gear, engines, and marine accessories at the best deals of the year.

Plus, the NEW Electronics Market offers the latest marine technologies and perfect holiday gifts for the boater or angler on your list.

WHERE: Jacob K. Javits Center, Eleventh Avenue & 35^th Street, New York, NY

WHEN: Saturday, December 13 – Sunday, December 21, 2008

Show Hours: Weekdays Noon-8pm; Saturdays 10am-8pm; Sundays 10am-5pm

NEW SHOW FEATURES:

·Twiggy, the Waterskiing Squirrel –She’s back! Starting Wednesday, December 17, Twiggy, the world’s first and only waterskiing squirrel, will be at the NY National Boat Show. After starring in hit movies including Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story and Anchorman: the Legend of Ron Burgundy, Twiggy is returning to New York to dazzle audiences of all ages with her waterskiing skills.

·Hudson River Quadricentennial Celebration – The official kick-off of the 400^th birthday of the Hudson River will take place on Saturday, December 13 at the NY National Boat Show, with a special exhibit continuing through December 21.

·Green Boating Zone – Check out the latest eco-friendly boating tips and technologies, including Hybrid boat introductions, environmentally conscious boating accessories and “Boat Green” seminars. Plus enter to win a Scout 145 Hybrid Boat ($16,995 value) and other great green prizes.

·For the Kids – Special photo opportunities with “Captain” Santa (Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 19-21) and Spongebob SquarePants (Dec. 20 ONLY).

·“Spectacular Holiday Giveaway”– Enter to win a $50,000 grand prize package through Brunswick’s “Spectacular Holiday Giveaway,” offered exclusively at the NY National Boat Show. Complete lifestyle package includes a 13-foot Boston Whaler sport boat; plus Brunswick Pool Table with cue rack & accessories, Poker Table & chairs, Centennial Bar with stools and a Life Fitness treadmill and Home Gym.

·Miss GEICO – The world’s fastest offshore racing boat and her team will be at the Show to bring attendees behind the scenes of a boat that is capable of reaching speeds of more than 185 MPH.

·Discover Boating Center – New to boating? Visit the Discover Boating Center for unbiased advice on boating for every lifestyle and budget. Experts are on hand to discuss individual needs and deliver information and local resources, to help you discover why life is better with a boat!

·FREE Boating and Fishing Seminars, produced by Rich Johnson of The Fishing Line

PRICES: Adults: $15; Youth (13-15): $8; Children: 12 and under FREE. **Advance online ticket sales carry special discounts – ON SALE NOW at NYBoatShow.com

CONSUMER INFO: The New York National Boat Show will be held at the Jacob Javits Center, 655 West 34^th Street (on 11^th Avenue), 212-984-7007, for more information on The Boat Show, visit www.javitscenter.com or www.nyboatshow.com

Tuba Christmas

TUBACHRISTMAS was conceived in 1974 as a tribute to the late artist/teacher William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902. Through the legendary William J. Bell we reflect on our heritage and honor all great artists/teachers whose legacy has given us high performance standards, well structured pedagogy, professional integrity, personal values and a camaraderie envied by all other instrumentalists. The first TUBACHRISTMAS was conducted by the late Paul Lavalle in New York City’s Rockefeller Plaza Ice Rink on Sunday, December 22, 1974.

 

NEW YORK CITY – 35TH ANNIVERSARY – SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13

TIME: 3:30 pm?

LOCATION: Rockefeller Center Ice Rink?

CONDUCTOR: Harvey Phillips?

GUEST CONDUCTOR: Chris Wilhjelm – Former conductor of the Goldman Memorial Band

NOTE: If interested in participating or would like more information, please visit http://www.tubachristmas.com/

 

 

 

NYRR Holiday 4-Mile Race

’Tis the season to be running! Crank up your holiday cheer with this festive family affair. It’s our present to you—happy holidays!

 

Course: Start on Central Park’s 102nd Street Transverse near East Drive and head west. Turn left/south onto West Drive, left/east onto the 72nd Street Transverse, and continue left/north on East Drive turning left/west to finish on 102nd Street Transverse.

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Fore more information visit www.nyrr.org 

 

NYC Santacon

Tourists and locals alike better behave…Santa is coming to town. Well, about a few hundred Santas will be on the loose, singing Christmas carols and of course reciting their jolly “ho, ho, ho” this Saturday December 13th starting at 10am and going on until the next day. So be on the lookout and take lots of photos of the hundreds of Santas that will take on the streets of NYC. Some of them may already be drunk but most of them are people just spreading holiday cheer from donating to charities, doing circus acts or just being naturally jolly. 

As Halloween approaches in less than a week away, people are scrambling for last minute costume ideas and trying to get to the last weekend of horror events or even just breaking at the old horror/ Halloween themed movies at home. So here are some fun filled haunted happenings that kids and adults will enjoy on this last fright fest weekend throughout the state of New York.

 

Ghosts of Greenwich Village Hunt

 

Armed with a flashlight, you’ll visit ghost-plagued buildings and secret cemeteries while learning the stories of the restless souls you might disturb. Starring the spirits of Mark Twain, Aaron Burr, Edgar Allen Poe, Washington Irving, Thomas Paine, artist John LaFarge, The Shadow, Clement Clarke Moore, Mayor Jimmy Walker, Lee Chumley, Patrolman Schwartz, a few skeletons and various other apparitions, sudden chills, rustlings and knockings. Tickets are only sold on-line. Family (kid-friendly) and Adult hunts are available. For more information visit www.watsonadventures.com

 

 

Nightmare: Bad Dreams Can Come True

 

For its 5^th anniversary, Psycho Clan decided that NIGHTMARE should actually be about nightmares so, as in years past, it conducted an online poll about its audience’s recurring bad dreams—and thousands responded! The creative team then selected the most twisted, demented responses, added some iconic recurring nightmares, and created a house that will force audiences to experience awake what few can handle asleep. With more special effects, more elaborate sets, and more evil baddies waiting to get you then ever before, NIGHTMARE: BAD DREAMS COME TRUE will bring your worst night terrors to screaming life.

 

CSV Cultural Center, 107 Suffolk Street @ Rivington, 212-929-2963, www.hauntedhousenyc.com

 

 

 

Boo at the Zoo

 

Celebrate a New York Halloween tradition! October weekends are packed with activities, including magic shows, spooky stories, costume parades, and musical hayrides. Best of all, come visit with our bats, cats, and creepiest critters. Also enjoy this special offer: One child in Halloween costume will receive a free child’s limited admission ticket with the purchase of one full price adult limited admission ticket.

 

The Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard – Bronx, 718-220-5100, www.bronxzoo.com

 

 

Amazing Maze

 

Enjoy getting lost in our 3-acre interactive corn maze. The adventure begins with a stalk talk to prepare you for the challenge of finding clues, solving puzzles and making your way out of the maze. To add to the adventure join us for Maze By Moonlight on Saturday October 18th and 25th when the maze will be open until 9:00 p.m. Feel up to the challenge? Then join us for the fun of getting lost and loving it!

 

Queens Farm County Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway – Queens, 718-347-3276, www.queensfarm.org

 

 

 

Central Park Pumpkin Sail & Prospect Park Haunted Walk

 

Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues)?Enjoy spooky storytelling, pumpkin crafts, live saw music, yummy candy, and New York City’s largest pumpkin flotilla! Bring your own 5lb to 10lb jack-o’-lantern by 6:00 pm to participate in the pumpkin sail. For more information, call 212-860-1370 or visit www.centralparknyc.org

 

 

Prospect Park Is Haunted! ?The beloved Halloween Haunted Walk is back and scarier than ever! Lurking high on Lookout Hill are zombies, wolf men, headless horsemen, good and bad witches, and other creepy characters. Visitors brave enough to experience this harrowing hike should head to Lookout Hill. The Halloween Haunted Walk is suitable for young children accompanied by parents/guardians or older siblings. ??There’s also a carnival on the Nethermead featuring all kinds of fun, games, seasonal treats, and a puppet parade. Begin at Prospect Park Southwest and 16th St. The Haunted Walk and Carnival is open to all and completely free of charge. For more information visit www.prospectpark.org

 

 

 

Blood Manor

Blood Manor unveils eight newly themed horror experiences, dozens of cutting-edge animatronics and scores of state-of-the-art props. Featuring the I Scream Parlor, the immediate chill you feel is intensified while battling the terrifying elements of the Thunderdome: a fierce electrical storm complete with pounding rain, howling winds and blinding lightning. You’ll squeal like a hog and your only escape is through Skull Alley, the petrifying path is bathed in UV light, which is utterly shocking as it envelops you. Duck into the Boiler Room where scalding hot steam emits from the pipes and smoke abounds in this dismal underground passageway. Make your way through this psycho superintendent’s lair quickly or you may wind up looking like one of the charred bodies. Show off your new coif while staggering down the all-new, electrifying 3-D maze, experience sensory overload as she-demons, creatures, zombies, spiders and other unidentifiable beings take note of your presence and breathe down your neck. There are a total of nineteen environments - each with its own creepy digital sound effects that will make your heart skip a beat. Blood Manor, 542 West 27^th Street (between 10^th & 11^th Ave.), 212-290-2825, www.bloodmanor.com

 

Outside NYC

 

 

Jack O Lantern Blaze & Legend

Take a day or night trip up north out of the city where many spooky legends began. Entering its 4^th year, the Jack O lantern blaze features more than 4,000 individually hand carved pumpkins that will illuminate at night. Visitors wander through the dark woods of artistic displays of jack o lanterns with different themes and landscapes. Meanwhile, at Legend, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow still lives and the Headless Horseman still rides in the night. Lit by only lanterns and bonfires, visit the haunted landscape of ghosts and goblins coming back to life. Tickets are sold only on-line and are often sold out. So purchase as far in advance as possible. For tickets and more information visit www.hudsonvalley.org

 

 

Forest Of Fears

 

Now in its final weekend, here is another reason to get out of the city and head into an actual forest about an hour up north from NYC. Featuring the Slaughterhouse that has 26 rooms of fear, The Cemetery of Lost Souls of fire manipulating fiends, Midway of Mayhem that features thrilling carnival rides and the spooky marketplace of unique trinkets, foods, souvenirs and much more. For more information, directions to Tuxedo, NY and tickets, visit the website at www.theforestoffear.com

 

 

Just when you thought the economy hasn’t already given us enough scares this month, there’s more scares to be had with unnatural creatures of horror in a fun way. When you are going to a place that begins with the dreaded word ‘nightmare’, one must know what to expect and yet, what not to expect when visiting your fears. Every year around this time, many of us thrill-seeking adventurers go looking for monsters & ghouls to give us the adrenaline rush of death and fear thus creating what is known as the mid-october crisis.

 

If you are one that itches and yearns to cure your mid-october crisis, and you want something to do this weekend, then start by visiting NYC’s most horrifying Haunted House. Nightmare has been scaring up some interactive experiences to record-breaking crowds for the past 5 years on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Expect this attraction to be packed with a lot of people. My friends and I went on a Tuesday night and it was packed with very eager and enthusiastic thrill seekers. I didn’t expect a turn out like this. Once we were finally at the front of the doors, the rules are explained to you. They can slightly mention what to expect without giving away what’s inside there. But the main thing to remember is to not touch the actors and the actors can’t touch you. No photography and no flashlights. You heard correct, no flash lights not even the light from your cell phone. In other words, you have to enjoy the darkness.

 

 

I can’t tell you what awaits you in the darkness, however, I can mention to expect a whole bunch of scares, unique characters and very innovative and creative paths to take within the house that is bone chilling. There are two paths within the house and of course my friends and I opted for the unconventional and yet, scarier path. All in all, I had a lot of fun, it’s a great way to interact and meet new people and bond with the friends that toughed out this spooktacular event with you.

 

If you’re looking for a relaxing one-day getaway during the Columbus Day holiday weekend that won’t have you breaking the bank, the 250 historic acres of The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is the place to go. Easy to reach by train on Metro-North, (20 minutes from Grand Central Terminal and 22 minutes from White Plains), the Botanical Garden is an autumn oasis with plenty to see and do for the entire family. Enjoy fun and educational hands-on art and nature activities, a musical performance, a live wolf, and family-friendly tours of exhibitions and the 50-acre Forest. Gorgeous flowers, and perennial gardens; secret sylvan retreats; dramatic natural landscapes and waterfalls interacting seamlessly with colossal art ? it all can be found at the Botanical Garden. All events are included with the purchase of an All-Garden Pass. For more information about planning a “Staycation” at The New York Botanical Garden, visit http://www.nybg.org/staycation.

 

Events at The New York Botanical Garden on Sunday, October 12, and Monday, October 13, focus on family exploration of art and nature through Moore in America: Monumental Sculpture at The New York Botanical Garden? the largest outdoor exhibition of Henry Moore’s sculpture ever presented in a single venue in the United States, with 20 major pieces positioned throughout the Garden?and activities and programs at the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden, Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, and throughout the Garden grounds. Planned activities* for both days of the Staycation include:

 

* Musical performances by M Shanghai String Band on Sunday and the Westchester Chordsmen Quartet on Monday, from 12 – 4 p.m. in the Children’s Adventure Garden.

 

* A visit by Atka the wolf at Daffodil Hill from the Wolf Conservation Center at 2 p.m.

 

* Family tours of Moore in America starting at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. from the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden· Bird Walk in the Forest at 1 p.m. and a Family Forest Tour at 3 p.m.

 

* Apple Cider Pressing at the Clay Family Picnic Pavilions from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

* A Migliorelli Farms stand of apples, cider, and cider donuts for sale in the Children’s Adventure Garden’s Discovery Plaza.· Hands-on nature activities at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden throughout the weekend plus the opening of Kiku for Kids on Monday, October 13.

 

* Goodnight Garden, providing an engaging and educational opportunity for kids to help put the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden to rest before winter· Prizes (while supplies last) for families who complete the entire Moore Family Fun Guide and bring it back to the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.

 

* An informative documentary film, The Art of Henry Moore in the Arthur and Janet Ross Lecture Hall at 12 and 2 p.m.

 

* Schedule subject to change.

 

The New York Botanical Garden has much to offer. Explore the ongoing exhibitions A World of Plants in the Conservatory and Plants and Fungi: Ten Current Research Stories in the Britton Science Rotunda and Gallery. Stroll among the fall blossoms of Seasonal Walk, or along the tree collections throughout the Garden grounds which are beginning their transformation to the season’s stunning foliage. Witness the color-packed splendor of the Jane Watson Irwin Perennial Garden. Browse in Shop in the Garden or grab a bite to eat in one of the Garden’s cafes. The Botanical Garden is lush with color and beauty both indoors and out. Come see why The New York Botanical Garden is a perfect destination, right in your own backyard.

 

As the beginning of fall comes this Sunday, most of the summer time events will now come to a close. Some of NY’s most historic places have already closed forever such as Coney Island Astroland Park. But another landmark will close forever, a yearly event ends and some are weekend events worth checking out as well as new beginnings for NYC. Enjoy the last days of summer weekend.

Whether you are taking pictures or going to a game, regardless, this is the last weekend to see enjoy one last game at good old Yankee Stadium fully operational before closing it’s doors on Sunday, September 21^st. So enjoy the trip down memory lane where players such as Babe Ruth, Lou Gerrig, Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and even the players of today have made history and the stadium a legendary cathedral that will now vanish. And soon to come will be the end of Shea Stadium so stay tuned.

This is also the last weekend to enjoy the most popular street fair, The San Gennaro Festival. The hours of the festival is from 11:30am until 11:30pm, rain or Shine. The festival runs along Mulberry Street starting on Houston Street all the way down to Canal Street. This is a great way to enjoy Italian food, music, games and much more on the streets of Little Italy.

Feel like getting out of the city? Head out to the Queens Farm Museum and check out the 26^th Annual Queens County Fair. A traditional county fair with blue ribbon competitions in livestock, produce, home crafts, arts and crafts, and more. Enjoy the Amazing Maize Maze, pie-eating and corn-husking contests, Big Apple Circus Variety Acts, make-your-own-scarecrow, hayrides, petting zoo, carnival rides, and midway. Visit our Bavarian Garden, Irish and German bands, craft and food vendors. Fun for the entire family! Check out the website for directions, time and admission prices.

 

Enjoy culture and pride and at African American Day Parade. Venture up to Historic Harlem and enjoy the rythym and sounds of the African American Parade. Parade begins at 111^th street & Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard all the way up to 142^nd Street. Parade is a rain or shine event and will begin at 1pm.

Looking to tap into your artistic or creative spirit? This weekend, a new exhibit at the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) will open. Experience the works of Van Gogh and the Colors of Night that will start this weekend all the way through to January. This exhibition will present new insight into Van Gogh's depictions of night landscapes, interior scenes, and the effects of both gaslight and natural light on their surroundings. Representing all periods of the artist's career, the exhibition will comprise over two dozen works of superlative quality—several of which have never been seen together, even though they were very clearly conceived with each other in mind. This is a rare opportunity to see the masterpieces of Van Gogh in this traveling special exhibition.

 

FALL FOR DANCE FESTIVAL

 

City Center Main Stage

 

Sep 17-27, 2008

 

All Tickets $10

 

For ten exhilarating days each year, feel the rush…the exuberance…the sheer joy that is dance, from New York City, across the country, and around the globe! Experience the world-famous alongside the cutting-edge, treasured favorites surrounded by undiscovered gems. Multiple companies appear in each performance, offering audiences a sampling of the best that dance has to offer – from hip hop to ballet, tango to tap, and so much more. So bring your family, grab your friends, join us and fall in love…Fall for Dance!

 

More Ways To Fall For Dance

 

The Official Festival Lounge

 

Admission is FREE and all are welcome!

Once a year during the Fall for Dance Festival, the public atrium between 55th and 56th Streets (immediately west of the theater's main entrance) is transformed into a vibrant gathering place for audience members and artists.

Dine, drink and dance all night long at Lounge FFD, open before, during and after each Fall for Dance performance!

$2 Drinks – Michelob Ultra, Budweiser, Bud Light, Bud Light Lime, Stella Artois, Bacardi Silver Mojitos and Pine Ridge Merlot & Chardonnay.

DJs keep the party going while a video feed from the stage lets you follow Festival performances live.

West 55th street between 6th & 7th Avenues

 

Lounge hours: 8pm perf. 6:30pm - 11:30pm, 3pm perf. 1:30pm-6pm

This year Lounge FFD is partnering with Creative Edge Parties, hailed by The New York Post as “The Caterer of the Moment!”

 

Creative Edge Parties brings you a delicious meal at a fantastic price before, after and during every Festival performance. Whether you’re an audience member or just passing through, Lounge FFD is a great place to share a yummy dinner with friends, or grab a scrumptious dessert!

DJs keep the party going all night long! DJs curated by HipsterTravel.com

 

 

Wed. 9/17 DJ SHAKEY

 

Thu. 9/18 MIKE DEXTRO

 

Fri. 9/19 DJ CAPTAIN HEARTLOCK

 

Sat. 9/20 DJ SKINTIGHT

 

Sun. 9/21 DJ REKLES

 

Tues. 9/23 DJ XEROX

 

Wed. 9/24 DJ JESS

 

Thu. 9/25 DJ LUPE LOOP

 

Fri. 9/26 TOM WARD

 

Sat. 9/27 PATRIK PHALEN

 

Dance Lessons

 

Take a Free, pre-show dance lesson in the Lounge!

 

 

Friday	9/19	6:30pm	Tap with instructor Toni Noblett
Sunday	9/21	1:30pm	Ballet for Kids (ages 6 and up) with National Dance Institute teaching artist Bianca Johnson
Tuesday	9/23	6:30pm	Hula with Halau Hula O Na Mele 'Aina O Hawai'i dancer Luana Haraguch
Thursday	9/25	6:30pm	Hip-Hop with Tammy Colucci

Lessons are 1 hour

 

 

September 5^th

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York

 

Setting the standard for the Spring 2009 fashion trend, the worlds most prestigious fashion show displays upcoming hot fashion. From celebrity sightings to world-famous models, behind the scenes media coverage and much more is to be expected at this event. Unfortunately, this is an invite only event and press event but you can still spot promotional events that will occur in and around Bryant Park.  Be sure to visit http://www.mbfashionweek.com/newyork/ for more information.

 

First Friday at The Guggenheim Museum

Every First Friday of a new month, The Guggenheim hosts a Friday evening party like any other club would in the city. Enjoy a drink with friends, explore the galleries and listen to some of the best DJ’s in town. Tonight the Guggenheim is featuring Vito & Druzzi of  Brooklyn Quartet The Rapture infect Art After Dark with an electric fusion of punk and disco is sure to have a hit for everyone with any mood, genre or party preference. Starts from 9pm until 1am, admission is $25, free to Guggenheim Members. For more information visit www.guggenheim.org

 

September 6^th

Brooklyn Bridge Swim

 

Usually a swim meet will swim alongside the coastline or around the islands but rarely cut across the channels. This is your chance to watch a swim race from Manhattan across the East River to Brooklyn right beneath the world famous Brooklyn Bridge. To find out more information and to be a spectator visit http://www.nycswim.org/

 

 

September 7^th

26^th Annual Antique Motorcycle Show

 

This event will showcase various makes and models of motorcycles that have been out of production for 10 years and more. Along with the show are petting zoos, hayrides, tours and much more at the Queens Farm Museum. Admission is $5 per person. Visit www.queensfarm.org for more information and directions to the farm. 

 

NYC Century Bike Tour

The Century Bike Tour can be a challenging or relaxing bike ride depending on the various routes you can choose from. All routes have been designed for your safety and enjoyment. Join over 6,000 cyclists and view the city and make city streets safer for cycling all year round. For more information and to register (yes, there’s still time), visit http://www.nyccentury.org/

So you haven’t managed to get away for the Labor Day Weekend or you are visiting NYC this holiday weekend. If you are going further north of NYC, you might want to check out The NY Renaissance Faire in Tuxedo (www.recfair.com/NY) and if you way up north of NYC, The NY State Festival of Balloons in Dansville (www.nysfob.com) is happening this weekend. So if you are in the city or out of the city, regardless, NY has loads of events and fun-filled activities happening such as baseball games and special events, activities at major attractions, museums exhibits, night club themes and shopping stores with holiday and back-to-school sales as well as other discounts in other types of stores throughout the city. Restaurant week is still happening in NYC, check out www.nycvisit.com/RestaurantWeek/ as well as other restaurants that will have discounts to offer. Coney Island will have loads of activities and events along the boardwalk and within Astroland Amusement Park. Check out www.coneyisland.com for further details. Shakespeare in the park (www.publictheater.org) is still happening and it’s perfect for having a bbq picnic or sun bathing or playing sports in Central Park before seeing the show. Also, there are two major parades in the city that will keep you going this holiday weekend. Have a great holiday weekend. Here is information on the main parades:

Brazilian Day Festival – August 31^st

The event is celebrating its 24th anniversary in 2008, always taking place at 46th St., near Time Square, also known as Little Brazil. Presently, the crowd takes as much as 25 blocks surrounding Little Brazil.

The festival began to celebrate Brazil's Independence Day, which is on September 7. Since 1984, that small celebration has only grown, up to the point of attracting over 1.5 million people in 2007, according to the New York City Police Department (NYPD).

 

The flock is drawn from as close as Connecticut and as far as California. Perfectly bonding with the diverse population of New York City, people also come from Europe, Asia and Africa to join the festivities. Some travel in groups, by bus; some fly in; and others simply drive hundreds of miles. No one wants to be left out this party, which is now considered the world's biggest Brazilian event outside Brazil and the Big Apple's most respected ethnical event. In this way, the Brazilian Day festival is not simply a party celebration; it has transformed in a big opportunity to reach out for the huge Brazilian community in the United States. On that day, Brazilians join each other from all parts of the world-many come from Brazil just to attend the festival-and they show their pride, advertise their culture and live their nostalgic and anonymous feeling of being an immigrant away from home. Furthermore, they consolidate their presence in the United States bringing the Brazilian popular warmth, rich music heritage and other assimilations that unite the Americas' two largest nations.

West Indian Carnival Festival – September 1^st

 

 

41^st Annual

 

Labor Day Carnival Parade on Eastern Parkway - 9/1/08 - 8am-6pm

For the 41^st year in a row, Carnival lovers and revelers from across the United States, and abroad will converge in Brooklyn, New York in celebration of the West Indian Carnival Festival & Parade. The annual Brooklyn celebration begins Thursday, August 28^th with events and concerts on the Brooklyn Museum grounds, and culminates on Monday, September 1^st with the renowned Labor Day Carnival Parade on Eastern Parkway. This year’s theme “One Caribbean, Many Cultures” embodies the beauty and unity of the Caribbean and its’ people.

 

Kicking off the weekend’s events will be the Ladies Night concert featuring Trinidad & Tobago’s 2008 Road March Queen, Fayann Lyons, artists Nadia Batson and Antiguan Road March Queen, Tizzy. Also slated for the jam-packed weekend are performances by soca stars Shurwayne Winchester & the Big Band Traffik, Barbados’ Edwin Yearwood & Krosfyah, Kerwin Dubois, Grenada’s Road March King, Berbice and Hunter with the Dil-E-Nadan Orchestra. Calypso veterans - David Rudder, Scrunter, Barron, Swallow and Crazy will also perform.

 

The Labor Day Carnival Parade showcases the unique, vibrant and energetic Caribbean cultural heritage in New York City. Grand Marshals for the Carnival Parade include Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Governor David Paterson, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez, Provost –Medgar Evers College and Les Slater, Folklorist. The Grand Marshals will lead the festivities alongside Honorary Grand Marshals, Congressman Rangel and Comptroller Thompson. WIADCA president, Yolanda Lezama-Clark will join the Mayor & Governor to kick-off the festivities by cutting a ribbon at Utica Ave & Eastern Parkway at 11am. The line-up includes hundreds of VIP’s, Sponsors, over 70 Floats and thousands of colorful masqueraders depicting spectacular and breathtaking creations.

 

Over 3 million people are expected to attend again this year. Visitors from all across the USA, Canada, the Caribbean and other international locations attend the weekend celebration as part of their vacation holidays. Last year, an estimated 100,000 individuals attended the events during the five day weekend and millions of revelers are expected to celebrate during the Carnival celebration on Labor Day. Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival is a time of jubilation and wild abandon – its magnetism drawing greater audiences each year as people naturally gravitate to this happy and joyful occasion.

 

The West Indian-American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA) is a not-for-profit, tax exempt organization established in 1967, and has been the driving force behind the West Indian Carnival Parade in Brooklyn. While WIADCA is most known for the affectionately named, "Labor Day Parade,” The main focus of the organization is to develop, teach and promote Caribbean arts and culture in the New York Metropolitan Area. WIADCA is the organizer and registered property owner of the West Indian American Day Carnival in New York City. The organization offers (3) Scholarship Funds: Arts & Culture, Medicine, Law & Business, benefiting more than 90 College student recipients to date.

All concerts are held at the Brooklyn Museum grounds,

 

900 Washington Ave, Brooklyn.

 

For other info, go to www.wiadca.org