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Events Featured

The Best Places for Independence Day in Downtown NYC

The Fourth of July only comes once a year, so it’s only fitting that you spend your Independence Day in Lower Manhattan where the views are spectacular, and truly the best fireworks in the city. Here’s a look at our top 6 spots to spend the Fourth:

Number 6: Roof at Park South

Photo by Roof at Park South

We’re starting off our list with the Roof at Park South, which is located at 125 E. 27th St. This venue is hosting a family-friendly rooftop cookout party from 3pm-8pm for the 4th of July this year. At this ticketless event, guests will take-in city views while indulging in Pina Colada, rose-white-and-blue frozen cocktails, mini bottle service, burgers, ribs, fried mac ‘n’ cheese bites and more. This event is the perfect pre-game for other events in the area, but after 8 pm, the venue is strictly 21 and up.

For more information, visit roofatparksouth.com/july4.

Number 5: Clinton Hall Rooftop or Courtyard Beer Gardens

Photo by Clinton Hall

Next on our list is Clinton Hall in Williamsburg, Brooklyn (247 Metropolitan Ave). This is another rooftop cookout, which runs from 2pm-8pm and includes a two-hour open bar with rose and draft beers as well as one hour of burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chopped chicken Sandwich, house-made BBQ potato chips and watermelon slices. Rain or shine, this event will be an amazing way to spend the 4th.

Tickets are $59 and can be purchased for 2pm-4pm or 6pm-8pm here.

If you’d rather spend the 4th surrounded by greenery, Clinton Hall 51 (230 E 51st Street) will be hosting another outdoor cookout in their Gigawatt Garden from 2pm-8pm.

Tickets are also $59 from either 2pm-4pm or 6pm-8pm and can be purchased here.

Number 4: R17

Photo by R17

R17, which is short for the Rooftop at Pier 17, is one of the hottest rooftops in all of Downtown. What better way to spend the 4th than indulging yourself at New York City’s best rooftop drinks destination. R17’s terraces have incredible views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building, so you won’t be missing any of the spectacular fireworks in the area.

If you love delicious food and drinks, be sure to make a reservation here.

Number 3: The Sentry at the American Copper Buildings

Photo by The Sentry

If you’re a fan of Naughty by Nature or Kayex, come to The Sentry at the American Copper Buildings (626 1st Avenue) on July 4th for their pool party from 5-10 pm. Not only will you be around and get to see incredible musicians, but you will also see the most incredible firework displays that New York has to offer.

This is an exclusive event. Tickets begin at $350 and can be purchased here.

Number 2: Clipper City

Photo from Manhattan by Sail Instagram

Manhattan by Sail’s 158-foot-long Clipper City (at the Battery Slip 2) is one of the most glorious tall ships in all of New York. With masts reaching 120 feet, you’ll recognize that this ship was initially intended for hauling lumber but is now a beautiful, spacious passenger-ship that lifts you high above the surface of the water.

Their family-friendly sail times are at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm on the 4th of July. Each time offers a different experience from beer-tasting to views of Lady Liberty aboard a luxury vessel that traverses the Hudson.

For more information or to reserve your spot for the 4th, visit their website.

Number 1: Classic Harbor Line Cruise

Photo by Classic Harbor Line

Our CEO’s number one choice for any holiday is aboard one of Classic Harbor Line’s beautiful cruises. Classic Harbor Line is located at 62 Chelsea Piers and offers a variety of different voyages. Whether you take the afternoon or the sunset cruise, you’ll be overcome with relaxation and bliss as you sail the Hudson River and watch the coastline’s fireworks stream across the sky. Depending on your cruise, you will have different food/drink options and experiences to view Downtown’s beautiful fireworks.

For example, aboard our favorite ship the American2.0, your food options will include real Harlem fried chicken, Little-Italy-style sandwiches piled high with cured meats and cheeses, roasted eggplant, fire-roasted tomatoes, marinated artichokes and olives served with crusty bread, deviled eggs with cajun shrimp or black truffle and more!

For more information on booking a Classic Harbor Line Cruise, visit this link!

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No matter where you spend your Independence Day, we hope that you get to see some beautiful fireworks, spend time with your loved ones, and take pride in being an American! DT

Categories
Events Fashion

Trend Report Tuesday: Last Minute Dresses for the Fourth of July

Happy Fourth of July!

It’s time to bring out that red, white, and blue spirit and celebrate freedom – but where can you find a last minute outfit? Dresses are always a go-to during the hot summer days and there are many ways to casually dress in spirit of Independence Day.

Here are 5 dresses for those scrambling for a last minute Fourth of July outfit and also appropriate to beat the heat.

Free People


Photo courtesy of Free People 

FP One Sadie Dress
Price: $148.00

Nasty Gal


Photo courtesy of Nasty Gal

Lace Be Honest Off-the-Shoulder Dress
Price: $90.00

Topshop


Photo courtesy of Topshop USA

Tie Dye Low Back Maxi Dress
Price: 45.00

Lauren James

Photo courtesy of Lauren James

The Augusta Solid Seersucker Dress
Price: $62.50

Francesca’s 

Photo courtesy of Francesca’s 

Anne Smocked Off Shoulder Dress
Price: $44.00

And the best thing; these dresses will make a great Fourth of July outfit, but are also perfect for the rest of the summer in the City.

Categories
Culture Events Living

Classic Harbor Line Celebrates Independence Day

Fourth of July is finally here and New York City is known for their Macy’s Fireworks. The 41st annual celebration of Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks is launching their light show from five barges stationed along the East River between East 24th and 41st streets.  It is the largest Independence Day fireworks display in the nation.

Photo courtesy of Macy’s Fireworks 

There are many places to watch the fireworks and they even include official viewing locations here. Along with those, the Classic Harbor Line offers a Fourth of July celebration including upfront views of the beautiful firework display. Who wouldn’t want to get aboard a classic style yacht and celebrate freedom?

They offer five different yachts on Fourth of July. Below are the offerings, all of them depart from Chelsea Piers.

Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise aboard Luxury Yacht Manhattan II

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – 4th of July 

A 1920’s style luxury yacht offering great views of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, Statue of Liberty, and NYC Skyline either on its open air deck, or its glassed-in skylight observatory.

Boat: Manhattan II

Price: $598

Fourth of July sail aboard Schooner America 2.0

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Schooner America 2.0

The 105 foot America 2.0 is the most opulent sailboat in all of New York City. It is a modernized replica of the first winner of the America’s Cup race of 1851 and is the most stunning as well as patriotic yacht in the NYC Fleet. On the yacht, guests have a complimentary open bar, hors d’oeuvres prepared by their on board chef and a 3-hour excursion on the Hudson River (amongst the entire New York July 4th flotilla).

Boat: America 2.0
Price: $498

Fourth of July Cruise aboard Yacht Manhattan

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Manhattan

Like the Manhattan II, it is also a 1920’s style luxury yacht offering great views of the 4th of July fireworks, Statue of Library, and NYC Skyline. This cruise includes complimentary beer, wine, champagne, soda, water, four courses of passed hors d’oeuvres, and lastly, dessert.

Boat: Manhattan
Price: $498

Fourth of July Sail aboard the Schooner Adirondack

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Schooner Adirondack

The Adirondack ensures an experience of great views of the fireworks and the New York City skyline during this joyful, picturesque sail. Your sail includes open beer, soda, wine, and champagne bar. Guests can bring their own picnic or snacks; however, hors d’oeuvres will be provided.

Boat: Adirondack
Price: $468

Fourth of July Cruise aboard Yacht Kingston

Photo courtesy of Classic Harbor Line – Yacht Kingston

Known as the most intimate classic yacht in town, step aboard and take in the spectacular fireworks on the East River. Along with 29 other guests, you will zip out on to the Hudson & East Rivers in style! It is a 1920’s style water taxi and features wrap-around seating, a covered area midship and an uncovered forward and back deck to observe fantastic skyward views. Along with a well-appointed restroom, there will be a fully stocked bar available.

Boat: Kingston
Cost: $428

The spirit of July 4th will fill the harbor! Buy tickets here for a Fourth of July you will never forget and keep the Classic Harbor Line in mind for other yacht ventures in your future.

Categories
Featured Living Miami

11 Must-Try Items For St. Patrick’s Day 2017

Photo courtesy of Pexels
Photo courtesy of Pexels

If you are planning on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, this is certainly no shortage of great options for exciting events out there. But there’s more to a successful St. Patrick’s Day than a few pints of Guinness. In turn, Downtown has compiled a list of items worth trying so you can have a good time all the time this Friday, Mar. 17.

1) Some fine cold brew coffee via Dripo

If your St. Patty’s Day is going to include a pub crawl, you’re going to need some stamina to make it through the day. What better source of on-the-go stamina is there than coffee? Dripo is a travel cold brew system that can be used at home, the office, or anywhere you have some space to move your arms. In one section you add ice and water, in the middle of Dripo, you add your ground coffee and a filter. The water drips through the coffee layer into a tumbler at the bottom and in about two hours a cup of cold brew is ready. Incredible.

2) Nail polish from Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott designed her first collection of jewelry in 2002. Now, she is the namesake of a billion-dollar brand which also creates home decor and wonderful wedding gifts. The Kendra Scott brand offers nail lacquers, including a few shades of green, right in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

3) Makeup from Smith & Cult

Smith & Cult Beauty Ambassador Jessica Tong created the nail look at the recent NYFW show of Ulla Johnson, which included the Nail Lacquer In Ghost Edit. But the Smith & Cult brand — as founded by co-founded by Hard Candy’s Dineh Mohajer — is also known for its lipgloss and eye makeup. More green coloring to go around!

4) Shinesty Suits

Shinesty is known for its novelty wear, which covers almost every occasional, holiday and circumstance you can think of. Their St. Patrick’s Day-themed selections are varied and excellent, offering options with and without clovers. Fun fact: I am getting married next week in a Shinesty suit. I am also likely to spend the 4th Of July in some their threads.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMnOwX_hki4

5) Clinique Fresh Pressed 7-Day System with Pure Vitamin C

As St. Patrick’s Day falls into the winter season, some cold air is to be expected. Fortunately, the new Fresh Pressed System from Clinique is designed as a daily supplement to visibly rejuvenate skin from the outside. In addition, its specialized stay-fresh packaging isolates the pure Vitamin C until activation, maintaining its freshness and full power for remarkable results as little as seven days.

6) The Eucalyptus Aloe Collection from H2O+

Looking for some green in your skincare and beauty regimens? H2O+’s new Eucalyptus Aloe Collection is green in terms of its packaging, the plants used to make the products, and the environmental consciousness of its production. Its body wash absolutely cleanses and refreshes as promised.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dt9vHPtbU4Y

7) The Yes To Cucumbers Collection from Yes To

Yes To is known to incorporate vegetables into its products. The Yes To Cucumbers collection includes cleansing water, paper masks, eye kits, makeup removing pads, facial wipes, moisturizer, daily gel cleanser, hydrating mist, night cream, and sunscreen. So no matter the temperature or time of day, Yes To has some healthy greens available for you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Shjb-Zjnt44

8) Call Time Styling Primer by IGK

IGK products are known to be free of parabens, sulfates, petroleum and gluten, while also cruelty-free, vegetarian and providing UV and heat protection. Its new Call Time Styling Primer — bright green in its packaging — is full of coconut oil and suitable for all hair types. It also contains the IGK Miami scent, which includes notes of guava, coconut water, pink lotus, midnight violet and vanilla.

9) Action Painting by The Creation

U.K. mod-rockers The Creation had a few charting singles before disbanding in 1968. To get psyched up for a St. Patty’s outing, why not start off with “Makin’ Time,” which Wes Anderson re-popularized via the film Rushmore? Action Painting is an impressive deluxe re-issue of The Creation’s catalog, now available via The Numero Group.

10) Michael Schenker Fest “Live” Tokyo by Michael Schenker

If hard rock is more suitable to getting ready for a Mar. 17 celebration, then consider checking out the latest from Scorpions, UFO and M.S.G. guitarist Michael Schenker. Michael Schenker Fest finds the German guitar legend at the center of his namesake live Japanese concert festival. Notable vocalists Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet and Robin McAuley reunite with Schenker to play the classics from the Michael Schenker catalog, which can be enjoyed via the CD, DVD, blu-ray and digital download formats as of Mar. 24.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmGjmKd652Y

11) Dr. Teal’s Pure Epsom Salt Soaking Solution

After a long day of partying on St. Patrick’s Day, the best way to unwind may be with a warm, comfortable bath. One brand to consider for that is Dr. Teal’s, as known for its Epsom Salt Soaks and Foaming Baths. Dr. Teal’s bath products hydrate and heal while providing a pleasant fragrance. Its Restore & Replenish Pink Himalayan Mineral Soak & Foaming Bath alone replenishes body with 84 essential minerals for all over body restoration.

Categories
Culture Entertainment

My Morning Jacket’s Carl Broemel talks new solo album “4th Of July,” to play City Winery on Nov. 12 with Dave Simonett

Carl Broemel / Photo: Brian Stowell
Carl Broemel / Photo: Brian Stowell

As a member of My Morning Jacket for over a decade, Carl Broemel has played some of the world’s largest festivals and arenas. However, Carl has remained active as a solo artist during My Morning Jacket downtime, having played on other artists’ recordings and released three full-length solo albums. His latest solo release, 4th Of July, came out over the summer and features guest appearances by Neko Case, Laura Veirs, Russ Pollard, Shelly Colvin, Richard Medek and Jordan Caress.

In support of 4th Of July, Carl is hitting the road for a U.S. tour alongside Trampled By Turtles’ Dave Simonett. Carl — who can be visited online at www.carlbroemel.com — spoke to Downtown about his new album, his history with New York City and what else is coming up for him.

Where did the 4th Of July title come from?

Carl Broemel: There’s a song on the record with that name and it’s the longest song on the record, so I thought it would be a nice title. Also, the cover photo is an old family photo of my aunt on her way to Europe on a boat with the Statue of Liberty in the background.

Were there ever plans to release the album during the week of July 4th?

CB: Yep, we were shooting for that date for obvious reasons, but due to production schedules it would have been hard to get everything together on-time. The good news is, 4th of July will happen again next year! And like the Statue of Liberty in a way, my album arrived a little late…She was finished and in place 10 years after the country’s actual centennial, so we share in our tardiness.

What did you do on the 4th Of July this year?

CB: We went down to the neighborhood pool with my seven-year old, then we blasted of some illegal fireworks in the driveway.

Do you have a favorite song on the new album?

CB: I have favorite memories of working on specific songs in the studio. It’s always a nice surprise when you get a full take with everyone playing and singing at once, and that happened on “Rockingchair Dancer” and “Crawlspace.” Recording and creating the song “4th Of July” was enjoyable because we improvised for a few hours with no worries about song structure or perfection. I later pieced together the song from some of nicer moments.

Carl Broemel / Photo: Brian Stowell
Carl Broemel / Photo: Brian Stowell

You have an upcoming show at City Winery in New York. What should be expected from attendees? Only songs from your two solo albums?

CB: The City Winery show will be a co-bill with Dave Simonett from Trampled By Turtles, so we will both be doing individual sets, as well as doing some songs together. I’ll probably play some songs from both of my records, and there are a few covers I have been doing lately that have been fun. Dave is a good friend, and I’m hoping we come up with some things to collaborate on.

Where was the first gig you ever played in New York City? What do you remember about it?

CB: My first gig was at Brownies in the East Village — now called Hi-Fi — with my college band Old Pike. I remember being nervous, there were some label folks in the audience.

We drove straight there from Bloomington, Indiana, stopping at a pay phone to get directions. We stayed at the Holland Motor Lodge by the Tunnel, and I remember thinking it was weird that the front desk clerk seemed surprised we wanted the room for a whole night. He asked “how many hours?”

I scored a sweet antique leather jacket at a street market right at 10th and A for $100 which I still have and treasure. Also we went to see Wilco at The Mercury Lounge, which was so amazing

Do you have a favorite New York venue to play at?

CB: We have been lucky to play a ton of different New York City venues, but playing in the Garden and at Radio City [Music Hall] are probably my two favorite of all time.

Other than promoting your new album and touring in support of it, what is coming up for you?

CB: MMJ is playing a few more shows this fall like Hullaween and Bridge School. Then our one big holiday festival is in February. After that we will start working on new music.

When not busy with your career, how do you like to spend your free time?

CB: I’m always working on something music-related, whether for myself or someone else. But aside from that I spend lots of time with my family, I have a young son so we are busy palling around most of the time, playing tennis or taking photographs or reading books.

If you have some free time in New York on the day of your City Winery show, where would you ideally spend it? Do you have a favorite restaurant in town?

CB: If I have time, I always love going to the Museum Of Natural History and finding a quiet room away from the crowds to ponder all the incredible items there!

Categories
Culture Events Living Music

GOGO THIS WEEK FOR DOWNTOWN: Sunday, Jul. 3- Sunday, Jul. 10

manhattan-336712_960_720

Photo: Courtesy of Pixabay

Gogobot is an innovative planning tool that tailors recommendations for places to stay, eat and play to your specific tastes. It also allows you to share your great experiences with people who have the same interests as you; people in your “tribes”. Gogobot’s ‘GoGo This Week’ feature empowers you to discover and take advantage of great events, openings and exhibits throughout the city each week. Here are some exciting events and sites to check out in downtown New York this week, courtesy of Gogobot. Visit the website or download the app for more GoGo This Week upcoming events.

 

1. Patriotic Burlesque
City Winery (South Village)
Monday, Jul. 4 from 7-9pm

For fire, sparks and glitter before the fireworks, check out Doc Wasabassco’s monthly Burlesque show at City Winery. The Pre-Fireworks​ 4th of July Celebration promises a patriotic “night of tease, spectacle, and couple-friendly risqué fun.” Tickets start at $22.

 

2. New French Bistro
Mimi NYC (Greenwich Village)
Monday-Saturday from 6pm-2am; Sunday 12-5pm

We are using French Restaurant Week as an excuse to check out Mimi NYC, a new French bistro in Greenwich Village. The mouthwatering menu includes innovative renditions of standards like Pâté en Croûte, Cured Sea Trout, and Veal Oscar.

 

3. 4Knots Music Festival
South Street Seaport (South Street Seaport)
Saturday, Jul. 11 from 1-10pm

The beloved Village Voice indie rock festival 4 Knots is better than ever! Headlined by American indie rock band Guided by Voices, and the Canadian band The Strumbellas, this year the festival is free! Additional performances by Protomartyr, Car Seat Headrest, Mothers, Kirk Knight, Girlpool, Bayonne, Diane Coffee, Promised Land Sound, mild high club, and Boulevards. FREE

 

4. Swim Sale
260 Sample (SoHo)
Tuesday, Jul. 5 from 10am-8pm; Wednesday, Jul. 6-Saturday, Jul. 9 from 11am-7pm; Sunday, Jul. 10 from 11am-5pm

British swimwear Orlebar Brown’s sample sale couldn’t have come at a better time. Stock up on men’s and women’s beach essentials, bathing suits, cover-ups, pants and more, at bargain prices.

 

5. Rooftop Bar Hopping
Check website for locations
Thursday, Jul. 21-Saturday Jul. 23 from 6pm-12am (check website for times)

You’ll want to start preparing ahead of time for this sky-high bar crawl. The Rooftop Crawl will hit up all the best rooftop bars with killer views and drink menus. Choose from Happy Hour Thursday, Weekend Starter or Sunset Saturday. $45

 

6. Red White Brew East Village Pub Crawl
Bar None (East Village)
Monday, Jul. 4 (registration from 5-9pm)

For those of you who don’t want to spend 4th of July weekend grilling dogs and corn in the backyard, tag along on this patriotic East Village pub crawl. Drop in on local East Village bars, meet new people, drink cheap booze and, who knows, you might even set off some fireworks yourself… $3

 

If you know of great events happening in your neck of the woods that might be a fit for a future GoGo This Week column, please feel free to email details about the event to events@gogobot.com

-Courtesy of Gogobot