Let your unbridled creativity shine all weekend with the countless expos, concerts, parties and dining experiences to attend! Get magical by cozying up in the grass and watching a fantasy film, attending an outdoor show full of abstract sounds or participating as a magician at the Wizard’s Brunch experience.
If you’re feeling more grounded with your art, attend the African fest and absorb the sights, sounds, and energy of the parade around you. Those into books, comic culture and the world of superheroes can roll up to Flame Con dressed up like one! Finish off the festivities by attending the Tiki Throwdown and sipping on tropical concoctions. There is no limit to your weekend when armed with our guide!
August 16th
MajorStage Presents: Kenny Jay Live (151 Avenue C, Manhattan @ 8 PM)
Laidback and soothing bachata artist Kenny Jay is performing his latest single “Walk With Me,” live. The upcoming artist’s traditional sounds combined with romantic lyrics and modern style, make him a defining figure in the changing Latin music scene. The venue 151 boasts it’s lowkey setting, comfortable seating, and fully equipt bar. If you’re looking for a night of dancing, drinks, and live music this MajorStage installment is for you.
Hudson Riverflicks (Pier 46, Manhattan @ 8:30 PM)
We love film screenings, and the summer has a few left! Hudson Riverflicks overlooks, you guessed it, the beautiful waters of the Hudson River. The open space is perfect for a lush blanket, lawn chairs, or squatting with a group of pals. The free films begin at 8:30 sharp, which means you should prepare to show up early and claim the best spot! Snacks are allowed and encouraged to customize your experience. This night’s film screening of How To Train Your Dragon 3 is a crowd-pleaser for kids, families, dragon lovers and those in need of a light-hearted fairy tale.
Wizard’s Brunch & Dinner (Pier 60, Manhattan @ different time slots)
A three-course meal by chef Abigail Kirsch paired with magical events, and wizardly entertainment is at the heart of this wonder-filled event. The Wizard’s Brunch & Dinner encourages participants in the experience to dress up as their favorite figure in magic and show up prepared for the fantastical. The immersive entertainment agenda includes potion making class, magic performances form professionals and music. The menu caters to those with gluten sensitivity, vegetarians, and vegan as well.
August 17th
Flame Con 2019 (811 7th Avenue, Manhattan @12 PM)
Dress up, powder, and transform into your super self! Comic book themed fun returns during this year’s Flame Con in NYC. The event creates an expressive and free space for the nerdy and the book wormy in the LGTBQAI+ scene. There will be boylesque and burlesque performances with a superhero geek theme as well as prizes to win and games to play. Stay tuned for details on the Flame Con after party!
Africanfest 2019 (285 Clove Road, Staten Island @ 12 PM)
Africanfest 2019 is back for a 3rd successful year organizing their celebration of culture and the arts. The outdoor event showcases performances from dancers, musicians, and performers. There will also be displays of visual arts and live music to enjoy. The participants all represent different diasporas from Ghana, Zambia, Ethiopia, Congo, and more. Other performances throughout the event will include gospel, spoken-word, and drumming.
Moon Beach (3050 Stillwell Avenue, Brooklyn @ 2 PM)
Get ready for EDM vibes and a loss of inhibitions. The Coney Island murals have been the center of events this summer, due both to their beauty and ambiance. Once again they’ll be setting the mood for festivities for Moondotbeach. The social event will encourage the eccentric, curious, and creative to turn out for music and movement. No style or vibe is too weird as long as it contributes to an accepting and safe environment. Attendees can expect music from musicians like Of The Trees and Supersillyus.
August 18th
Ocean Cube Pop-Up (60 Grand Street, Manhattan @ 10 AM)
Ever want to cave dive? How about snorkeling? There are a few reasons why one might not be able to venture across the ocean floor and get a closer look at all its beauty. Still, those reasons don’t have to stop you from enjoying the magic of the sea. This pop-up art exhibit has reconstructed coral colors, soft hues, sea botanicals, and bioluminescent life to provide the most authentic walkthrough experience. The Ocean Cube will remain open until 7:30 PM daily.
Tiki Throwdown 2019 (36-08 33rd, Queens @ 3 PM)
The New York Cocktail Expo is presenting the Tiki Throwdown in Long Island City. Aside from the host of amazing beverages and vendors participating in this year’s expo, the Tiki cocktail is in a lane on its own. Visitors can sample creations from leading Tiki bars and their tropical blends. Some names in the industry like Death & Co and Mother of Pearl are a few of the established competitors. Grab your ticket, prepare to sample the fruity and crisp notes of these signature beverages, and cast your vote.
Visual Art Picnic With Buffy (15 River Street, Brooklyn @ 11 AM)
This is your opportunity to stretch out in the grass with snacks, blankets, popsicles, and sunshine. It’s also a once in a lifetime chance to stare up at an enormous kaleidoscope. The Buffy Picnic at Domino Park features a blown-up dome that shields those within. The inflatable work from Pneuhaus is full of colors and shapes that delight and entrance. There will also be plant-based ice pops available from Moms & Icepops to snack on!