Fire up the barbecues. Memorial Day is here, and with it, the unofficial start of summer.
The ocean water might still be a bit too chilly for swimming, but it’s time to dive into those warm-weather activities you’ve been missing. So get outside and explore — safely, of course. (Wear your sunblock!)
Been craving a day in the park? A visit to an outdoor market? A minor-league baseball game with gloriously over-the-top promotions? You’re in luck. Summer is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you navigate all the city has to offer — with some help from expert New Yorkers.
(A scheduling note: Unlike in previous years, the Summer in the City newsletter will be monthly this season, with editions coming in late June, July and August that will cover the month following each of those dates. We’ll also be featuring photos by Daniel Arnold, a photographer based in New York. And for eating recommendations, head over to the Where to Eat: New York City newsletter, written by Nikita Richardson, one of our Food editors.)
Recommendations
Open Garden NYC (June 3-4)
“We have community gardens in all five boroughs where you can get together with your neighbors and immediately make an impact, and the Open Garden days are a perfect opportunity to check out the garden closest to you.” — Sue Donoghue, commissioner, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governors Island (June 10-11)
“I did the cocktails for the event for many years, and always enjoyed being a part of it. The music, dancing, food and cocktails make for a really special day in N.Y.C.” — Julie Reiner, founder, Social Hour cocktails, and co-owner of Clover Club, Leyenda and Milady’s
Central Park SummerStage featuring DJ Premier with Grandmaster Flash, Kid Capri, SpinKing and more (June 19, 4 p.m.)
“Central Park is iconic for many reasons, but one area it’s lesser known for is the legacy of hip-hop, funk and soulful house music D.J.s who regularly perform during the summer.” — Alex Kurland, director of programming at Blue Note Jazz Club
Concert in the Catacombs: The Daxophone Consort at Green-Wood Cemetery (June 21-22)
“A one-of-a-kind atmospheric sound experience curated by acclaimed experimental musician Gelsey Bell.” — Catherine Morris, Sackler senior curator for the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art at Brooklyn Museum