Best Things To Do in New York City This Week (May 26-June 1)
New York City is heating up as we head into the final days of May. From seasonal celebrations to special exhibitions, the city is packed with action. The long weekend adds even more energy with both locals and visitors heading out. With so much happening in every borough, it’s worth planning ahead. Here’s the best things to do in NYC from May 26 through June 1, 2025.
Things to Do in NYC this Week (May 26 – June 1)
Memorial Day
Honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Various ceremonies and parades will take place throughout the city, including the annual Memorial Day Parade in Brooklyn.​
- Website: https://www.nyctourism.com/events/memorial-day-parade/
- Location: Various locations
- Date: May 26th
Manhattanhenge
Experience the unique phenomenon where the setting sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan’s street grid, creating a breathtaking view. Best observed from wide cross streets like 14th, 34th, or 42nd Streets. ​
- Website: https://www.amnh.org/
- Date: May 28th
DanceAfrica Festival at BAM
Celebrate the rich culture of the African diaspora with dance performances, film screenings, and an outdoor bazaar at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. ​
- Website: https://www.bam.org/danceafrica-program
- Location: Brooklyn Academy of Music
- Date: May 23rd – 26th
Loisaida Festival
Join the vibrant celebration of Latino culture in the Lower East Side with live music, food vendors, and art installations along Avenue C. ​
- Website: https://loisaidafest.nyc/
- Location: 5th-12th Streets on Avenue C
- Date: May 25th
New York African Film Festival
Explore a diverse selection of films from the African continent and diaspora, screened at various venues including the Film Society of Lincoln Center. ​
- Website: https://africanfilmny.org/
- Date: Until May 31st
Sonia Gomes: Ó Abre Alas!
Visit Storm King to see Brazilian artist Sonia Gomes’s first U.S. solo exhibition, featuring intricate fabric-based sculptures that blend Afro-Brazilian traditions with contemporary art. ​
- Website: https://collections.stormking.org/
- Location: Storm King Art Center
- Date: Ongoing
Drai’s Supper Club
Experience upscale dining and live entertainment at Drai’s new supper club in the Meatpacking District, offering French-American cuisine and a speakeasy-style lounge. ​
- Website: https://www.draisnyc.com/
- Location: 244 W 14th Street, New York
Andrei Kozlov’s “So-Real Surreal” Art Exhibition
Explore the powerful artwork of Andrei Kozlov, a former Hamas hostage, as he transforms his experiences into surreal paintings on display in Chelsea. ​
- Website: https://nypost.com/
Philippine Independence Day Parade
Celebrate Filipino culture with the largest Philippine Independence Day Parade outside Manila, featuring colorful floats, traditional dances, and delicious cuisine along Madison Avenue. ​
- Website: https://pidci.org/
- Location: Madison Ave, 38th-27th St., New York Ctiy
- Date: June 1st
Edge Observation Deck
Enjoy panoramic views of New York City from the Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, located at Hudson Yards. ​
- Website: https://www.edgenyc.com/en
- Location: Hudson Yards
- Date: Ongoing
This week in New York City offers a rich tapestry of cultural events, art exhibitions, and unique experiences. Whether you’re interested in honoring national holidays, exploring diverse cultures, or enjoying breathtaking city views, there’s something for everyone.​
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