There is only one thing that comes to mind when thinking about New York in the spring and that’s soaking up all the great outdoors in this beautiful city. Here, we take a look at some of the fabulous spring activities to look forward to during one of our favourite seasons.
Enjoy the Blooming Flowers
I defy anyone to look at cherry blossoms and not be captivated by their beauty. They are known for being a prominent feature of Japanese nature, however, you can find them in New York City to. Here they’re celebrated at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which plays host to a yearly festival called Sakura Matsuri. They can also be found in Central Park, Morningside Heights, Sakura Park and Randall’s Island, which also puts on its own festival celebrating the cherry blossom. When you arrive back home, I’m pretty sure you’re going to pop to your local garden center, to find one of these beauties to plonk down in your back garden.
For those of you who love Orchids, the New York Botanical Garden plays host to an Orchid Show. In addition to the flowers, you will also find a full day of events here starting from morning until night.
The Festivals & Fairs
The world-renowned Tribeca Film Festival is one of the main reasons that put Tribeca on the map. Whether you’re into films or not, seeing a premiere or catching a glimpse of a celebrity will get you into the celluloid spirit. In addition, there is also the Tribeca Family Festival Street Fair that offers a number of screenings, events and lots of entertainment for children and adults alike.
If you’re a fan of music and food (I mean who isn’t??) then the Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival will be right up your street. This is a tribute to some of greats and is a fantastic opportunity to visit Harlem, a little gem in Manhattan’s crown that has so much to explore. Add to this the amazing soul food and you’re definitely in for a good time.
To all you art lovers, we haven’t forgotten about you. The Frieze Art Fair comes around annually and plays host to galleries and artists from all over the USA, Europe and of course the Big Apple. Held at Randall Island (which is a little piece of New York paradise), in a unique venue which overlooks the east river, showcasing art and culture. It truly is an uplifting fair.
The Amazing Holidays
There are a few cultural holidays that are celebrated during the spring period. St. Patrick’s Day kicks it all off, but it doesn’t just end there.
The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival has deep roots, dating back to the late 19th century. It’s like a pageant of hats, providing a somewhat costume party feel. Everyone loves a good ole’ costume party.
Holi (the festival of colours) is a Hindu festival which is celebrated in spring and is full of fun, laughter and colour, hence why it has become quite popular here in New York. It’s the one day during the year when you get covered in different coloured powders representing the diverse colours of spring. Imagine a fun water fight but replace the water with colourful powers and that is Holi.
A great holiday of indulgence is Cinco de Mayo, where lots of great food & drink is a must. You can look forward to the fantastic street fair that is held annually outside the Grand Central Terminal and then proceed on a pub crawl along best Mexican bars in New York City.
The Beginning of Market Season
When the weather finally starts to get warmer, the city’s best flea markets open up again. Here you can shop for some great one-off vintage items (I absolutely love a vintage piece) or just enjoy the atmosphere as you make your way around the different stalls. Here are some that you should explore:
Grand Bazaar NYC: 100 West 77th St., NY
Brooklyn Flea and Smorgasburg: 50 Kent Av. Brooklyn, NY
Green Flea: 100 West 77th St., New York, NY
Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market: W. 39th St. & Ninth Ave., New York, NY
Chelsea Flea Market: W. 25th St. between Sixth Ave. & Broadway, New York, NY
Hester Street Fair: Hester and Essex St. New York, NY
If you like the idea of visiting New York City in the spring, then head on over to our website. We have some great New York Breaks for you.
