We're in the magical month of May, where everything in New York City is just about perfect.
The weather is right where it needs to be, spirits are lifted with summer just around the corner, the heavy layers have shed, there's blossom on every block, and this city has some seriously fun things going down (of course).
Here are 12 of the biggest, must-do events happening this month in NYC.
1. Electric Daisy Carnival (May 23rd & 24th)
Didn't make it to an outdoor festival yet? No worries, Electric Daisy Carnival is coming to New York City's MetLife Stadium this month.
This year's lineup is outstanding, with world-renowned DJ's including Carl Cox, Nicky Romero, Afrojack, Calvin Harris, Benni Benassi, Tiesto and more, spinning across the course of the weekend.
This is one epic way to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend, wear a flower crown without being judged, and wild out to your favorite house tracks.
Take a look at all of the admission information right here.
2. Liquid Summer Sessions Opening Party (Friday, May 29th)
Clear your Summer Friday calendar on May 29th from 3 p.m. on because it's going down...
Liquid Summer Sessions officially kicks off Summer 2015 on May 29th, and you're invited to take part in this pool party, open to all-- hotel guest or not. All you have to do is RSVP here.
Hotel Americano - La Piscine (518 West 27th Street) is where it's all happening. Come one, come all, bring your friends, and hang loose. (P.S., there will be complimentary margaritas for an hour as well.)
And don't forget your bathing suit!
3. TD Five Borough Bike Ride (May 3rd)
The month of May equals Bike Month in NYC! For one day of the year, cyclists are welcomed to take over the city: 32,000 cyclists to be precise.
This epic 40 mile tour spans across all five boroughs and over five bridges. And although regular registration has already sold out, there's still room for volunteers...
Anyone? If not, there will be tons of other two-wheeled events going on in this city all summer long to keep your eyes peeled for!
4. Cinco De Mayo (May 5th)
Cinco De Drinko has never fallen on a better day: #TacoTuesday! It's time to celebrate our favorite Mexican holiday on May 5th.
Luckily, NYC is a place that doesn't fall short on Mexican restaurants and bars to indulge in magical margaritas, killer tacos, and epic empanadas.
And if you are looking to celebrate Cinco De Mayo with spoiled nyc, come out to Hope Garden in Williamsburg for #HopeDeMayo. Win art pieces and dinner tickets, meet unforgettable people, and have a great time. Food & drinks specials all night long, with music provided by the talented Rodney Hazard. RSVP for free here.
5. Champagne Brunch Cruise (select May dates)
At long last, New York City has been blessed with warm balmy weather, so we thought the idea of a brunch cruise sounds about right for any New Yorker.
Hornblower Cruises & Events offers a Sunday Brunch Jazz Cruise that leaves Pier 40 at 12:00 pm to set sail around the city for the entire afternoon.
You can expect to see breathtaking views of the city, an extensive brunch buffet, bottomless mimosas, and live jazz. Plus, you know what they say: a well-spent Sunday brings a week of content!
6. Mother's Day (May 10th)
It's the day we show mad love to the women we love the most.
There are so many cutesy things to do in this city to show your mom just how much you love her, from brunches and lunches to walks in Central Park and strolls around New York City's greatest museums.
You can't go wrong when treating Mommy dearest to a day in the city.
,7. Harlem EatUp! (May 14th - 17th)
harlemeatup Happy Friday! If you're a beer lover, be sure to grab your tickets for #BierInternational's Dine In Harlem event at #HarlemEatUp. Click the link in our bio to find tickets!
Rejoice! There's a new festival in town: Harlem EatUp!
As you've probably guessed from the title, this festival primarily showcases the greatest foods Harlem's chef's have to offer, alongside the neighborhood's coolest art and music.
If Harlem isn't a place you get to visit much, this is the perfect reason why you get there now.
8. Memorial Day (May 25th)
Marking the unofficial start to summer, this city oozes with ways to celebrate this holiday-- obviously!
Picnics in the park, a back yard BBQ with your buddies, rooftop parties, escaping to New York's beaches or just strolling around your borough till you reach the Memorial Day Parade (there's one happening in each borough, FYI).
As much as we think this is just a day off that should solely consist of BBQs, food, and booze, remember to take a moment for those lives that were lost for the Stripes and Stars.
9. The Color Run (May 23th)
The Color Run has been making 5K runs the most fun activity ever since 2011. Starting at Citi Field, be apart of the 'happiest 5K on the planet.'
Sprint while you get splattered with paint, all for a great cause! Find out all the details here.
10. Manhattanhenge (May 28th)
Get your smartphone filters ready! In New York's most Instagrammable event of year, catch this absolutely spectacular sunset on May 28th.
Manhattanhenge, also known as Stonehenge, happens only twice a year when the sun aligns perfectly between the city's grids.
11. NYC Spring Wine Festival (May 9th)
This is the perfect afternoon and evening-- overflowing with live music, food and wine.
The NYC Spring Wine Festival is kicking things off with 3 hours of wine-tasting with over 200 wines; of course, they'll also have incredibly delicious light bites and sample tables for you to nibble your way through, all while you two-step to live jazz music.
12. Shakespeare in the Park (select May dates)
The Delacorte Theatre in Central Park presents Shakespeare in the Park.
Head down there (free of charge) to watch a Shakespearean play... in a way you've never experienced before!
If you can't make the Central Park dates, there are plenty of other days throughout the entire month to catch (in several other parks, all across the city). Check out all of the details here.
If you enjoyed this article, check out Brooklyn's Outdoor Concerts, Waterfront Movies & Dance Parties, and a Bacon Picnic!