a state of mind

5/3 AND 5/5 Stone Street’s Cinco de Mayo Block Party

Organized by the Stone Street Historic District , one of NYC’s largest Cinco De Mayo Festivals returns The margaritas will be flowing, the Mariachi bands will be playing, and the vibes will be at an all time high! Noon to 10pm both days. Free to attend.

5/1-8/10 Across Amy Sherald: American Sublime at The Whitney

Amy Sherald creates precisely crafted narratives of American life, selecting, styling, and photographing her sitters as the foundation for her nuanced paintings. Thus, while Sherald (b. 1973; Columbus, Georgia) bases her works on specific people, they center on everyday Black Americans, compelling in their individuality and extraordinary in their ordinariness, inviting viewers to step into Sherald’s imagined worlds. In this exhibition at The Whitney, paintings of such ordinary Americans join her iconic portraits of First Lady Michelle Obama (above) and, heartbreakingly, Breonna Taylor, to produce a resonant ode to the multiplicity and complexity of American identity.

5/3 Free Maker’s Mark Kentucky Derby Day at Tin Building Outdoor Bar

The Seaport is bringing Southern charm to NYC with a Maker’s Mark Kentucky Derby Viewing Party at Tin Building’s Outdoor Bar on Saturday, May 3. From 4–7 PM, guests can expect an elevated afternoon of high spirits, bold flavors, and Derby Day tradition. Cocktail highlights include the classic Mint Julep made with Maker’s Mark and fresh mint, a zesty Brown Derby with Basil Hayden Bourbon, grapefruit juice, and honey, the bright and citrusy Oak Lily with Grey Goose Vodka, Cointreau, cranberry, and lemon juice, and the bold Kentucky Flyer made with Basil Hayden Malted Rye, Luxardo Maraschino, and fresh lemon juice. RSVP here.

5/3-5/4 Free Family Weekend Activities at South Street Seaport Museum

Dive into the rich history of printing and its deep connections to the Seaport! This hands-on weekend activity invites families to create their own illustrative “woodcuts” using styrofoam. Then, bring your design to life by making an impression print—just like traditional block printing techniques! Design your own unique illustration or choose from pre-made templates provided by the Seaport Museum. Before you roll up your sleeves and try your hand at printing, make sure to visit the new exhibition Maritime City as well as Bowne & Co. Stationers to see examples of historical printing, equipment including a printing press, and more! The activity was developed for participants ages 5 and up. This will take place indoors at 207 Water Street but may be moved to the cobblestone street in front of the building if the weather is nice. Access to 207 Water Street includes walking up and down a few stairs. Free all weekends in May, 11am-4:30pm.

5/11 Mother’s Day Dining at The Fulton

Escape the bustle of the city and rediscover the romance of the sea at The Fulton, a waterfront destination by world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. With a deep nod to the history of The Seaport, the menu showcases the bounty of the ocean with a refined, seasonal approach. Expect elegant seafood-forward dishes, serene harbor views, and an atmosphere that makes for an unforgettable Mother’s Day celebration. Make your Mother’s Day reservations now!

5/30 Jet at The Rooftop at Pier 17

JET is bringing their North America Tour to The Rooftop at Pier 17, with special guest Band Of Skulls. Get tickets here. Read here for more on The Rooftop at Pier 17’s summer 2025 lineup.