New York City in May is a lovely time to visit. Everything is blooming and the summer vibe is in the air. There’s a bunch of activities you can take part in – from festivals to parades. We’ve prepared a list so that you know what to do in NYC in May.
Shakespeare in the Park
From the 28th of May through August, Shakespeare in the Park is a tradition that is over 50 years old. The tickets are free and it brings together thousands of people every summer in Central Park at the Delacorte Theater. Great artists often take part in this and people from across the globe come to celebrate Shakespeare and other classics.
Dance Parade
This event takes place each year. With a similar spirit as dance shows around the globe, the Dance Parade allows people of various ethnicities and cultures to come together in NYC. The Parade celebrates the dance’s history and brings forth vivacity, creativity and beauty of different dance styles. The Parade initiates on Broadway at 32nd Street and then heads south. Then it continues from St Mark to Tompkins Square Park.
International Food Festival
This International Food Festival on 9th avenue happens during the weekend of May 18th-19th. It is one of the most favorite events of New Yorker’s since it began in 1973. No cars are allowed on 9th Avenue for the duration of the festival. The street is full of delicious dishes and their scents for the duration of the festival. Around 1 million people come for this festival. Furthermore, there are more attractions than just food. There are dance shows and music. It’s a great family event.
Five Borough Bike Tour
The Five Borough Bike Tour is also an annual event, and this year it will take place on Sunday May 5th. To discover New York on a bike, this is the event you want to be a part of. You’ll participate in one of the biggest biking events in the country along with around 30 thousand bikers.
The trip starts in Lower Manhattan. You head north to the center of Manhattan, returning south along the East River. The entire trip is around 42 miles, so if you’re up for a long adventure, take part in this!
Memorial Day in New York
Memorial Day is on the last Monday of May. It’s a holiday in honor of the defenders of the USA. It’s also the beginning of summertime. Most New Yorkers celebrate their day-off (given that Memorial Day is a national holiday) and spend their time barbecuing or at a local beach or park.
Parades take place in:
- Queens—the biggest parade of NYC.
- Manhattan— head to Inwood.
- Brooklyn—this year they will celebrate : this year will be the 152ndth Memorial Day parade.
