What To Do In NYC This Weekend June 15 To 17

Goodbye, cramped apartment, and hello, beautiful sunshine

This weekend, Mother Nature is blessing us with sunshine, and you'd be remiss not to take advantage of it. Whip out the sunglasses for the Mermaid Parade, go to an epic outdoor philharmonic performance concert and get jazzy on Governors Island. Let the rays be your excuse for keeping your phone on Do Not Disturb and don't forget the sunscreen.

All Weekend

Akiko Is Hungry Pop-Up

On Saturday and Sunday, private chef and Japanese comfort food expert Akiko Thurnaeur is turning Tygershark in Brooklyn into our ideal all-day café. Swing by Vanderbilt Avenue for dishes like beet carpaccio with buttered soba, charred corn with scallions, yuzu and cotija cheese and lotus root with watercress and shiitake mushroom dumplings.

 

New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks

Friday night, head to Prospect Park for an evening of the classical overtures under the stars. Already busy? Check out the Philharmonic's indoor performance on Sunday afternoon at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden in Staten Island.

Jazz Age Lawn Party

Travel back to the Prohibition era for the biggest 1920s party since, well, probably the 1920s. Governors Island is once again hosting the family-friendly jazz event where people soak in the traditions of the time, eat, listen to music and dance. Vendors will be selling beverages (both alcoholic and not) that you're free to enjoy on your blanket or lawn chair. And while it's not required, you're encouraged to dress the part.

Friday, June 15

Pride at the Whitney

A week before the New York Pride parade on Sunday, June 24, the Whitney is giving everyone reason to celebrate early. Trans artist NIC Kay is presenting a series of performances that asks "how wellness can be defined outside of the neoliberal cultural economy." Kay will be backed by a set composed by Berlin-based DJ Ziúr. Advanced tickets are sold out, but walk-ins are allowed entry on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Saturday, June 16

Mermaid Parade

Take to Surf Avenue for an underwater-themed procession in Coney Island. The Mermaid Parade, which this year features Amanda Palmer and Neil Gaiman as Queen Mermaid and King Neptune, is back. A hit since 1983, you'll get to watch the parade or, for an entrance fee, participate in bringing mythical sea creatures to life.

Sunday, June 17

Rubin Museum Annual Block Party

The Rubin Museum of Art—which celebrates the art and ideas of the Himalayas—is hosting its annual block party. Learn how to build a park inside a trailer with Healing Garden and watch a presentation on initiatives aimed at bettering the quality of life of the Southeast Asian senior community. On-site food vendors include Café Serai Outpost, Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream, Brooklyn Popcorn and Wafels & Dinges.

Father's Day Beer Brunch Cruise

Treat Dad to a meal on the Hudson River this year. Aboard a Hornblower yacht, guests will be served unlimited beer, mimosas and brunch, while a jazz band and DJ perform on deck. It'll be a gift he won't forget, all backed by the New York City skyline.