Memorial Day weekend is finally here!
While you could sail out of NYC for a long and much-needed weekend getaway, you'll be missing out on some pretty awesome events right here.
And now that Fleet Week has started, you'll be missing out on snagging your own uniformed armed forces member. Wink wink.
Drop anchor right here in NYC to celebrate Memorial Day... and don't forget to thank a sailor for their service!
Enjoy the long weekend!
Friday, May 26th
1. Friday Books, Booze and Board Games
If you've been having a rough, exhausting week, a night to turn down with friends is totally cool.
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Head to Housing Works Bookstore Cafe at 126 Crosby St. between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. to enjoy fun board games and drink specials at this cozy bookstore. Check out the event to RSVP.
Looking for a cultural escape and infectious rhythms this weekend?
Join African dance groups from the tri-state area for the 40th anniversary of DanceAfrica–The Healing Light of Rhythm: Tradition and Beyond. The show pays tribute to the music and movement traditions on Guinea. They'll be performing from May 26th to May 29th at BAM Howard Gilman Opera House. Pick up your tickets here.
Saturday, May 27th
3. Kickoff Summer '17 Booze Cruise
Come kick off Summer '17 with us and a few hundred of our closest pals. We're gonna be cruisin' for two hours around Manhattan, then continuing the party dockside. Think about those views.
There's also gonna be some delish hors d'oeuvres from our buds over at FoodKick, along with an open beer, wine, and vodka bar.
Do NOT miss the party of the summer. Seriously. And tix are almost gone, so you better get on that.
Does the word "5k" give you a panic attack too? You're not alone. Many New Yorkers hate running just as much as you do.
But would you maybe change your mind if the run could be a bit more...colorful? Dig out that white tee from your closet and snag your tickets here.
If you've always dreamed of catching your own sailor, marine or coast guardsman, this event is your in.
Awesome Adventures is hosting this super cute mixer at Hudson Station from 8-12 p.m. Servicemen and women get free booze from 8-9 p.m. while civilians get delicious free apps and drink specials. Don't miss this night of fun icebreaker games, prizes and dancing with the armed forces. Grab your tickets here.
6. Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit
A relaxing walk through the park enjoying art may be all that you need this Saturday.
Check out the artwork, crafts and jewelry at this exhibit at University Place from 13th Street to West 3rd Street at noon. Even try haggling with artists from around the world to bring home some of the most beautiful and unique art pieces. This free exhibit is open to the public from Saturday 27th to Monday 29th.
Sunday, May 28th
7. Memorial Day Sunday with Jellybean Benitez at Coney Island Art Walls
This weekend, you have an excuse to party up on a Sunday.
At this free party at the Coney Art Walls, you can jam to beats from DJs Jellybean Benitez, Tony Touch, Ray Vazquez and a surprise guest DJ announced on that day. Head over to 3030 Stillwell Ave. 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. to dance the day away.
8. Fleet Week New York Community Music Festival
Join Staten Island local bands as they pay tribute to our armed forces, if you want a close-yet-far escape from the hustle and bustle of the city for a day.
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Head to Flagship Brewery in Staten Island for this free event open to the public. From 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. you can join community members for the perfect night of beer, music and friends.
Monday, May 29
9. House of Yes' Summer of Love Memorial Day Celebration
A free pig roast, open air bar and dance party? Yes, please!
At the Vander Ende-Onderdonk House in Ridgewood, Queens, you can dance your heart our with House of Yes and DJ Eli Escobar from 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. Enjoy yummy food from roasted pig to vegetarian delights from local vendors before heading over to the Mamas Bazaar artisan market, interactive art area and circus performances.
10. Dirty Dancing + Watermelon Margarita
Did you accidentally see the monstrosity that was ABC's remake of Dirty Dancing?
Redeem your love for the iconic '80s hit film by sipping on some sweet watermelon margaritas and screening the original Dirty Dancing. Pick up your ticket here for this very necessary event Videology Bar and Cinema on Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m.
[Feature Image Courtesy CBS News]