Memorial Day weekend is rapidly approaching, and what better way to kick off the summer with some fun city activities. Whether it be a new exhibit to check out or a waterside festival, NYC has endless options for Memorial Day weekend fun, and something for everyone to enjoy.
Head to New York Botanical Garden to see Van Gogh’s Flowers
Van Gogh’s Flowers at the New York Botanical Garden
Beginning on May 24 and continuing through October 26, New York Botanical Garden (NYBG), located in the Bronx, is featuring an exhibit celebrating the work of Vincent Van Gogh, by bringing his pieces to life. The exhibit will combine botanical displays with sculptural and contemporary art pieces. While the exhibit itself will be available to the public throughout these dates, they will also be featuring other interactive activities on select dates, such as Starry Nights, featuring music, food, and after-dark drone shows. During opening weekend, being Memorial Day weekend, visitors can experience the LEGO Botanical Garden pop-up, where you’ll be given the opportunity to create your own Van Gogh sunflower to keep.
Celebrate Fleet Week at the Intrepid Museum
Fleet Week activities on Pier 86 at the Intrepid Museum.
The highly anticipated Fleet Week kicks off on May 21, saluting to men and women in sea services with a variety of events and celebrations. Stop by the Intrepid Museum for some fun Fleet Week celebrations, such as a free movie night on pier 86, showing Top Gun, different workshops, such as creating a morse code bracelet, and meeting different military personnel. The museum will also be featuring live music performances, lectures, and a Memorial Day ceremony.
Rosé-All-Day Fest at Watermark
Rosé-All-Day festival at Watermark on Pier 15. Photo via Bucket Listers.
On Memorial Day, Watermark dining at Pier 15 is offering a rosé-all-day festival. They are offering two sessions throughout the day, with the first being an afternoon session from 12-5 PM, and the second being a night session from 6-11 PM. This is a ticketed event, with a variety of ticket options including general admissions and VIP table reservations, all ranging in pricing. The event will feature live DJ’s, food to purchase, games and activities, and, of course, plenty of rosé samples to find what suits your fancy. Purchase tickets via Bucket Listers.
Drag Brunch at The Red Pearl
Debuting May 31, Yuhua Hamasaki takes over House of the Red Pearl (in the Tin Building, at The Seaport) with an all-new ‘90s throwback Drag Brunch you won’t want to miss. Expect surprise guests, campy humor, iconic looks, and Chinese-inspired bites. Get ready to party like it’s 1999. Enjoy pre fixe menus and cocktails with shows at noon and 2:30pm. Reservations here.
Shop at Urbanspace’s Makers Market at Bryant Park
Maker’s Market at Bryant Park. Photo via Instagram.
Urbanspace’s Makers Market will be popping up this Memorial Day weekend in Bryant Park featuring a variety of vendors and their products. Over 175 vendors will be there, showcasing and selling their handcrafted work. Expect pieces of art, jewelry, food, decor, and so much more. The market will be open all of Memorial Day weekend as well as Memorial Day itself. Support local vendors at this festive market!
Get some sun at a city beach
Coney Island. Photo via NYC Parks.
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, which means NYC beaches are opening up for the season. From Coney Island in Brooklyn to Orchard Beach in the Bronx, there are plenty of spots to escape the big apple and relax in the sunshine. The beaches are reopening on Saturday, May 24, with lifeguards on duty from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and there is no charge to access city beaches.
New York City has plenty of fun activities and events to celebrate the Memorial Day holiday and kick off the summer. From a relaxing beach day to supporting local vendors at a market, there are numerous ways to celebrate the holiday and have fun!