Summer has unofficially arrived in NYC... we'll it's post Memorial Day, which means we're basically there.
That means it's time for block parties, barbecues, and manhunt in the Bronx, because anyone who's grown up in the Bronx knows that summer is most certainly the best season of the year.
Just because you're all grown up doesn't mean that you have to stop enjoying the sunshine and decent weather. We're all adults, but we're certainly children at heart.
Instead of chalking up the season to the youths, head out to some of the incredible events going down in the Bronx this summer.
What kind of events are we talking? These are the events you just have to knock off the Bronx summer bucket list:
1. New York Botanical Garden 125 Evenings
In celebration of their 125th anniversary, the New York Botanical Garden is throwing down various Thursdays and Saturdays all summer long.
Whether you're interested in checking out the beautiful flowers under the moonlight or want to experience the incredible live music lined up, you're sure to have a killer summer night at the New York Botanical Garden.
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With your ticket, you'll get a complimentary drink, with the option to purchase refreshments from the 1891 Alehouse. Check out dates and tickets here.
2. The Feast of St. Anthony (187th Street & Arthur Avenue)
Anyone who has spent any time in NYC can attest to the fact that NYC's true Little Italy is in the Bronx on Arthur Avenue. Sure, we love the Feast of San Gennaro, but apart from that, the Bronx does it better. Instead, head to the Feast of St. Anthony on 187th Street and Arthur Avenue on June 8th to June 12th.
There will be plenty of games, rides, live music, and (of course) tons of mouthwatering food.
Traditionally, craftsmen would create extravagant steeple like structures to honor saints. Arthur Ave's giglio is a 65-foot, hand-made wooden structure that will be paraded through the streets in a ritual.
Don't miss this "dance of the giglio" on Saturday, June 11th.
3. Boogie On The Boulevard: Summer Sundays (Grand Concourse between 165th and 167th Streets)
On the last Sunday of June, July, and August, head to the Grand Concourse for Boogie On The Boulevard from noon until 4 p.m. There will be plenty of food, art, street games, and even fitness classes.
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During Boogie On The Boulevard, the center lanes of the Grand Concourse will be shut to cars, with various stations dedicated to partners and organizations from the Bronx and just beyond.
4. Yankees Old-Timers' Day (Yankee Stadium)
For Yankee fans, Old-Timers' Day at Yankee Stadium is a chance to see some of our old heroes back in the pinstripes on the field. Sure, they might not be as limber as they once were, but it's certainly fun to cheer on old names once again for it's 70th year running.
This year's roster includes Bronx Bomber favorites like Hideki Matsui, Rich "Goose" Gossage, Joe Torre, Pat Kelly, Paul O'Neill, Bernie Williams, and Whitey Ford.
Following Old-Timers' Day, cheer on the current Yankees as they play the Detroit Tigers. Get your tickets here. Though the game begins at 2:05 p.m., Old Timers' Day starts at 11:30 a.m.
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5. South Bronx Farmers Market Season Opening (138th Street between Alexander & Willis Avenues)
On June 18th, head out to the South Bronx Farmers Market for their official season opening. From 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. ever Saturday until November 19th, stock up on fresh produce.
Their mission is to alleviate dietary issues that stem from an unhealthy diet. The South Bronx Farmers Market provides nutritious, affordable, and locally grown produce to the residents of the South Bronx.
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In order to make the market accessible to low-income families, the market accepts SNAP/EBT/FMNP/ and WIC.
6. A Midsummer Night at the Bronx Zoo
On July 30th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., head to the Bronx Zoo for a night of live music, light refreshments, specialty vendors, giveaways, and (obviously) the animals.
Best part yet? This trip to the zoo is for the parents only, as all guests must be 21 years or older to enter. Sounds like a kickass night if you ask us.
7. Bronx Brewery Backyard
If you haven't been to the Bronx Brewery, you're seriously missing out, let alone if you've never tasted their fantastic brews. So what's the best time to venture out to the Bronx Brewery?
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Uh, right-friggin-now. Their backyard patio is the perfect place to enjoy some live music, games, the weather, and the beer.
8. Eat nYc The Bronx Food And Wine Festival (The Dancing Crane Pavilion)
Grab your ticket for the Eat nYc The Bronx Food And Wine Festival on Friday, August 12th from 5 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. for your opportunity to gorge yourself on incredible culinary works of art while simultaneously helping create awareness to combat hunger in NYC.
For every $1 Eat nYc donates to the Food Bank For New York City, 5 meals will be distributed to the hungry.
Of course, because this isn't any old food and wine festival, Eat nYc The Bronx Food And Wine Festival will be held in the Dancing Crane Pavilion of the Bronx Zoo. Can you tell we're excited?
We're excited.
Check Out 7 Things You Absolutely Have to Do in Brooklyn This Summer.
[Feature Image Courtesy HotelsCheap.org]