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Friday Night Films in NYC This Summer

Films on the Green 2018
Films on the Green 2018

Films on the Green, the 11th edition of the free outdoor French film festival, will present a selection of films around a theme intrinsically related to French culture and society: gastronomy. Produced by the French Embassy and NYC Parks, Films on the Green will present a selection of classic and contemporary French films including Le Grand Restaurant (Jacques Besnard), The Rules of the Game (Jean Renoir),  Le Boucher (Claude Chabrol), The Scent of the Green Papaya (Tran Anh Hung), The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (Luis Buñuel), The Grocer’s Son (Eric Guirado), and Haute Cuisine (Christian Vincent). Films will be shown at various parks in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey, from June 1 to September 6, 2018.

 

 

Downtown is proud to be one of this year’s sponsors for Films on the Green. “Our love for French Film’s and New York City parks are one and the same, having the opportunity to bring these to together was too good to pass up” CEO Grace A. Capobianco. Ms. Capobianco’s affinity with France dates back to the early 80’s during her very first trip to the South of France, since then she has spent an extensive amount of time in France, enjoys many French friends, an adoptive French daughter and her very own pup Barclay, Downtown’s Pawblisher, answers to only French commands!

Last year was a banner year for Films on the Green. They celebrated their 10th edition with a selection of contemporary and classic French cinema selected by 10 guest curators, including some of the most compelling and creative filmmakers, actors, and artists of our time: Wes Anderson, Jim Jarmusch, Isabella Rossellini, Laurie Anderson, and more. This year, they are building on this momentum with the theme “à table!” celebrating the French “art de vivre” through a selection of 11 classic and contemporary films screened in 7 parks across the city.

Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park

The Festival will kick off on June 1 with a private reception at the French Embassy, followed by the first screening in Central Park. Subsequent screenings will take place at Washington Square Park, Tompkins Square Park, Transmitter Park and Riverside Park. The series will conclude with a special back-to-school screening at Columbia University on September 6. We will also present a screening in Spanish in Washington Heights to further broaden our already diverse audience of New York francophiles and cinephiles.

DJs spin music prior to each screening and the films attract a hip and dynamic crowd. Last year 5,600 people attended and visibility was very strong for our partners and sponsors with thousands of New Yorkers and visitors passing through the film viewing areas.

We look forward to seeing you at one or all of the many films this year. Bring a baguette, some Reblochon, and sweets from Ladurée, Maison du Chocolat, or Dominique Ansel Bakery.

Be sure to add Films on the Green to your Summer New York City outings, and we’ll see you on the Green!

More information at frenchculture.org/

Categories
Culture Living

Spring has Sprung at the Battery Conservancy

The Battery Conservancy

While open to the public every day of the year, the Battery Conservancy embraces spring with a lineup of exciting events and activities for New Yorkers of all ages. America’s largest perennial garden is the perfect oasis in Lower Manhattan to get away, and enjoy the warmer weather.

The Battery Conservancy

On May 8th at 8am, nature enthusiasts can join NYC Audubon, an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of wild birds in the five boroughs, for a bird walk. Lead by experienced birder and naturalist Gabriel Willow, participants will have the opportunity to observe the diverse species that call the Battery their home. Those interested can RSVP here.

The Battery Conservancy Annual Gala

On June 8th, the Battery will host it’s 22nd Annual Gala. This year, the festivities will celebrate Hermès, as well as the cultural richness of Lower Manhattan. Cocktails will be served at 6:30pm, and dinner will commence at 7:30pm. Those interested in reserving a ticket for this enchanting night can contact Elizabeth Steeves.

The Battery Conservancy

Beginning April 13th, weekly walking tours through the soon-to-be lush gardens of the Battery  will be available. Participants will learn about the park’s history, visit important monuments and landmarks, and get a small break from the hustle and bustle of the Financial District. Not to be missed is the Seaglass Carousel, designed by the George Tsypin Opera Factory, for an otherworldly aquatic-inspired experience. Those interested can RSVP here.

The Battery Conservancy Volunteer Opportunities

Downtowners looking to give back to their community can join the Battery’s Horticulture Team. Volunteers help permanent staff maintain the beauty of the gardens by completing a minimum of 8, 2.5 hours shifts over the course of the calendar year on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Those plagued with a black thumb who still wish to help out can become a Battery Greeter, and help welcome visitors to the park. Information on both opportunities can be found here.

Urban Farming at the Battery Conservancy

The Battery also prides itself on being an organization that educates students on the importance and potential of urban farming. Groups from pre-K to 12th grade can be registered for self-guided or staff-guided field trips. Visits include everything from hands-on farming lessons, learning the history of NYC’s urban ecosystem, and tastings, if seasonably appropriate. More information on registration can be found the conservancy’s website.

The Battery Conservancy
Categories
Featured Living

Downtown’s 2016 Holiday Gift Guide

Saks Fifth Avenue unveils: Land of 1000 Delights, 2016 Holiday Windows and Light Show
Photo: BFA for Saks Fifth Avenue

It’s the most wonderful shopping time of the year! The holidays are here and to us at Downtown that means spending time with our loved ones, joyful holiday parties and finding the perfect gifts for everyone on our lists.

From beauty to experiences and picks for the family, our holiday gift guides have all of Downtown‘s favorites for the season, here to help and inspire you. Let the shopping commence!

 

Looking to host the snazziest holiday party or just trying to find a great hostess gift? Check out these suggestions sure to impress:

1. Portugalia Wines ($9.45), 2. Saks Fifth Avenue 2016 Ornament ($115), 3. Patrón Tequila ($48.99), 4. Lenox Punch Bowl Set ($79.95), 5. Casal Garcia Wine ($6.41), 6. Alacrán Tequila ($42.00), 7. Belvoir Beverages ($2.75), 8. Money on Honey Chocolates (19.95), 9. Belvedere Vodka ($40) 10. La Mere Poulard Cookies ($10), 11. Crosley Cruiser Record Player ($79.96)

 

Excitingly checking your stocking to see what’s hiding in there? These favorites will bring joy well into the new year:

STOCKING STUFFERS1. Fake Bake Tan Gel ($27.50), 2. Origins Mask ($26), 3. Trilogy Bare-Faced Beauty pack ($20), 4. Anthony Fresh 5 Kit ($30), 5. Nature Republic Ampoule & Toner ($19.90/32.90), 6. Londontown Kur Nail Cream ($35), 7. Aveda Grooming Clay ($25), 8. Ittsé Palette ($21.99), 9. Luxe Apothecary Body Scrub & Bath Soak ($18/24), 10. John Masters Lip Calm & Hand Cream ($19/22), 11. Flower Beauty Kiss Collection ($9.88), 12. JAQUA Hand Crème Sampler ($19.50), 13. Sonia Kashuk Makeup Bag ($10.99), 14. Lucie + Pompette Lip Batter ($16.50)

 

What to get for the woman who has it all? With a great mix of stylish options and key accessories this list has a wide set of options for every occasion:

For Her1. Master & Dynamic Swarovski Crystal Headphones ($1200), 2. Portolano Gloves ($225), 3. Pellobello Fluffy Jacket ($248), 4. Coach Coleen Bootie ($345), 5. EF Collection Ring ($1,350), 6. Milly Tulle Dress ($235), 7. Del Toro Slippers ($350), 8. Fendi Mini 3 Jour ($2,900), 9. Elemental Herbology Facial Cleanser ($52), 10. Scentbird Perfume Subscription ($59.95), 11. Nancy Gonzalez Clutch ($1,195), 12. De Grisogono Watch ($16,100), 13. Karl Lagerfeld Paris Faux Fur ($380)

 

It’s easy to buy presents for men… said no one ever. However, with these ideas it just got a lot easier. Now, only problem is picking which one:


1. Van der Hagen Razor ($17.79), 2. Van der Hagen Shave Butter ($6.99), 3. Gucci Ring ($260), 4. Wall + Water Holiday Tie ($45), 5. Bond no. 9 Cologne ($350) 6. Peter Thomas Roth Shave Cream ($26), 7. Pryma Leather Headphones ($400), 8. Fendi Porfolio & Wallet Case ($240), 9. Perry Ellis Red Cologne ($55), 10. Original Penguin Cologne ($65), 11. Moncler Scarf ($375) 12. Perry Ellis Aqua Extreme Cologne ($60), 13. Magnanni for Saks Hiking Boots, 14. Dollar Shave Club Traveler Bundle ($31.50), 15. Brilliance New York Moisturizing Emulsion ($120), 16. Salvatore Ferragamo Wallet ($500)

 

While the holiday season is a joyous time, it can also be stressful. Spoil yourself — or someone you love — with these wonder products and look radiant all season long:

BEAUTY1. Hepcat Phlur Perfume ($85), 2. Glow Body Butter ($16), 3. Urban Decay Makeup ($36), 4. Goop Face Oil, 5. Caudalie Glow & Go Set ($79), 6. Clarisonic Mia Fit ($219), 7. Valmont Prime Renewing Pack Mask ($210), 8. Elizabeth & James Dry Shampoo ($28), 9. Elizabeth & James Body Oil ($60), 10. Perricone MD Pre-emt Trio ($135), 11. Alterna Haircare Shampoo ($32), 12. Ahava Bath Salt ($22), Kérastase Shampoo ($47), Alexander McQueen Perfume ($115)

 

Think outside the box and choose a present that’s not easily wrapped: Experiences! We’ve gathered up a mix of cooking classes, sports and a helicopter ride:
EXPERINCES1. Protocol Terracopter Drone ($100), 2. 5 ModelFIT Classes ($149), 3. Rei Atomic Vantage Skis ($399.95), 4. FlyNYON Helicopter Ride($300), 5. Patagonia Winter Jacket ($199), 6. Lululemon Leggings ($98), 7. Soothe 3 Hours In-Home Massage ($271), 8. International Culinary Center 1-Day Cooking Classes ($195), 9. Sony PlayStation Virtual Reality ($500)

 

 

Here’s a little bit for everyone in the family; special treats for the puppy, experimenting in the kitchen or just sprucing up the home decor a little — this list has you covered:

FAMILY1. Flowers By Yasmine Seasonal Box, 2. FLAIR Throw ($365), 3. Revive Bath & Body Soap ($8), 4. Beekman 1802 Hand Care Duo ($35), 5. Camarillo Marble Bath Ensemble, 6. T-Fal Prograde Cooking Set ($169.99), 7. Coco-Roons Snacks ($7.99), 8. Terra’s Kitchen Subscription, 9. Krups Hand Mixer ($59.99), 10. Elite Cuisine Egg Cooker ($19.99), 11. Breville Coffee Grinder ($199.99), 12. Henry Bendel Puppy Toy Set ($48), 13. Lord Jameson Dog Treats ($22), 14. Le Pet Spa Grooming Sessions

 

Make the holidays even more magical for the children with some of these choices. There’s everything from winter gear to fun games that will bring fun, happiness and excitement:

KIDS1. Hudson Bay’s Company Ear Muffs ($20), 2. Wonderful Objects Subscription Box ($72-252), 3. Martone Gramercy Diamond Bike ($1,100), Hasbro Nostalgia Twister ($30), 5. Hape Early Melodies Grand Piano ($150), 6. Hape NYC Print Teepee, 7. Looney Labs Pyramid Board Game ($79.99), 8. Collection XIIX Holiday Gear ($32), 9. Hudson Bay’s Company Dish Set ($40)

Happy Holidays from the Downtown team!

Categories
Events Living

End Your Summer at Summer Streets

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Image: gigi_nyc

August is here already and we can all feel Fall nipping at our flip-flop-laden heels…but before we let Summer slip through the cracks, let’s not forget we can still make the most of the next few weeks! Take a look at these exciting series of activities that will be coming up as the end of the season approaches.

From 7 am to 1pm for 3 consecutive Saturday’s in August (next date is August 8th), Summer Streets closes down 7 miles of streets in New York City, from the Brooklyn Bridge all the way up to Central Park, to encourage New Yorkers to get outside and use the city as a recreational space.

The city-wide event is described as part bike tour, part walking tour, and part block party. New Yorkers get to experience traffic-free streets and revel in biking, running, playing, and eating while taking in musical performances by a myriad of bands, viewing multiple art installations, conquering the 160′ zipline, and partaking in arts and crafts workshops.

Last summer more than 300,000 people took advantage of the open streets, this summer make sure you’re one of them. It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the time left in the month of August, and it’s all free of charge! Be sure to free up your calendar and take the time to check it out- this Summer Streets fest only comes once a year!

-Kelly Fleming & Angelica Gianni

summer streets map

 

Categories
Real Estate Travel

Next Hot Destination: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

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 Iconic Tobago Cays | Credit: SVG Tourism Authority

What is your favorite summer Caribbean vacation hot spot? Jamaica? Turks and Caicos? Or Anguilla? Well, you may have to rethink you’re ideal destination for a sandy beach and clear water, because Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a luxury vacation dreamland with across the board comfort.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines islands feature exclusive, tropical getaways offering a variety of amenities, while not breaking the bank. SVG is located in the Caribbean Sea between Grenada and St. Lucia, and is made up of a chain of small exotic islands stretching southward across turquoise and blue waters. Garnering a lot of attention is Mustique Island, a part of the alluring 32 island archipelago.

SVG Aerial Shot - Credit St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Tourism Authority1

Tobago Cays Boats | Credit: Kay Wilson 

DOWNTOWN caught up with Nubia Duvall Wilson, who has been to Mustique numerous times, for the inside scoop about SVG. Wilson is a luxury travel expert with a distinguished travel background. She has represented Bacardi in Travel Retail and luxury hotels and destinations around the world since 2008. Since 2003, Wilson has traveled to more than 40 destinations globally and lived in Taiwan for two years.

“It is an area of the Caribbean that isn’t your typical go to destination. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is where you feel isolated,” Wilson said. “The islands aren’t over developed, they are very lush, small and each island is different, so you have many options, which is nice. You get a more peaceful experience.”

Port Elizabeth - Credit RPM Media1

Port Elizabeth | Credit: RPM Media

These islands and cays are renowned for their natural beauty, abundant sea life and many different options to accommodate their versatile visitors from all over the world. This favorable vacation destination is set to have a sharp increase in tourism with the building of the Argyle International Airport which will replace the existing ET Joshua Airport, and is expected to open in early 2015.

The new and improved airport will offer nonstop international jet service from North American and European gateways, increasing flights into SVG. Aside from the airport increasing access to these paradisal islands, the infrastructure and eco-friendly activities have been immensely re-constructed. Two new deep-water seaports were recently built, one exclusively for cruise ships in mainland St. Vincent.

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Massage on the beach at the Buccament Bay Resort | Credit: Buccament Bay Resort

In addition, the opening of 15 tourist sites are ready for excursionist’s enjoyment after restoration. The awe-inspiring activities include waterfalls, beaches, parks and botanical gardens to choose from. If you think that sounds great, a state-of-the-art marina is being built on Canouan Island and it’s expected to be the most outstanding marina in the Caribbean, accommodating 300 yachts and 6 mega-yachts.When thinking about these extravagant arrangements, there are also grand hotels and resorts for a place to rest your head in comfort.

Wilson recommended three great accommodations for your trip to paradise: Palm Island Resort, owned by Elite Island Resorts, has recently been renovated into an eco-friendly and green private island. This luxurious, all-inclusive resort just added four large suites. To access the island, guests take a complimentary 45-min air transfer from Barbados to Union Island then an 8 min boat ride to the resort.

palm island resort 1

Palm Island Resort | Credit: Palm Island Resort

Also, the wonderful Bequia Beach Resort is on eight acres of tropical gardens overlooking Friendship Beach. This five-star hotel includes 41 suites; featuring an expansive penthouse, three two-bedroom villas with private pools, three bungalows and 11 rooms. Buccament Bay Resort is an all-inclusive property where you can receive soccer and tennis coaching, and also includes the Pat Cash Academy and Liverpool Football Club Soccer School.

SVG is perfect for travelers looking to discover the undiscovered Caribbean. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are a concealed gem in the Caribbean perfect for the enterprising traveler. SVG offers all the amenities needed for a serene and tranquil vacation.

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Bequia Beach Hotel | Credit: Bequia Beach Hotel

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Buccament Bay Resort | Credit: Buccament Bay Resort

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Palm Island Resort The Grenadines | Credit: Palm Island Resort 

Written by Mariah Brown 

Categories
Events Living

Spend Your Summer Fridays with FiDi Families

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It’s no secret that kids get restless during the summer. Parents love spending time with their young ones, but constantly brainstorming for different activities to keep their children entertained can grow tiring. Lucky for you, you can spend your Fridays with FiDi Families.

Friday with FiDi Families was created by the DOWNTOWN Magazine NYC’s Lifestyle and Family Editor, Denise Courter, as way to help build community events that are family-friendly. The summer series is a weekly event involving free activities offered every Friday at the South Seaport Front/Row stage located at Fulton and Front street. Your child’s summer energy will drain out of his or her system in no time. These fun activities will be available every Friday until the end of August, and you won’t want to miss out on the excitement they have to offer you and your child.

Activities will start at 10 a.m. and include music, arts & crafts, storytelling and more. This Friday will mark the kick-off with Music for Aardvarks, an interactive musician and sing-along for all ages. After you enjoy the singing you can stop by AmazeBooths, a photo booth with fun costumes and props for you and your child.

Throughout this Friday event series, children and parents will also be treated to a complimentary GoGo SqueeZ, a delicious all-natural 100% fruit squeezable applesauce. Friday with FiDi Families will include a handful of additional activities with more sing-alongs and even a free manicure for you and your child by CityMANI. Be sure to join in on the summer fun and visit the South Seaport this Friday.

-Jordan Tidwell