NEW YORK (1010 WINS) - Whether you're a finicky foodie, a rabble-rousing rocker, or a fan of all things Harlem, there's something for you to do this weekend in the New York City area. And some are free! Check out these 9 things-to-do 1010 WINS has picked for you:
QuikChek Hot Air Balloon Festival
Have you always wanted to go see hot air balloons? Well this is your weekend as Redington, New Jersey will be hosting the largest summertime hot air balloon festival in North America. Big, colorful balloons will float off into the sky as attendees can eat, shop and watch the show.
When: Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28
Where: Solberg Airport, Redington, N.J.
Cost: $35
It is that time of the year again to take to the streets of Harlem and celebrate the history and culture of this upper Manhattan neighborhood. Originally Harlem Day in 1974, New Yorkers extended the celebrations to fully encapsulate their love for Harlem. The Harlem party now lasts for a little under a month. There's an auto show, children’s festival, small business fair, fashion show, educational fair, outdoor film screening, a dance party and the Percy Sutton 5K Run to finish it off.
When: Sunday, July 28 to Saturday, August 24
Where: Harlem
Cost: Free
Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest
Navigating these cultural food hubs can be intimidating for those unfamiliar with the cuisine. Learn and eat with the pros by touring seven different tasting locations in Chinatown and Little Italy. Your palette will be delighted with worldly dishes from Chinese dumplings to Italian cheeses. While trying foods from two different continents, you will also be learning about the stories behind these lower Manhattan neighborhoods.
When: Sunday, July 28 10:30 a.m.
Where: Begins at the Silk Road Cafe, 30 Mott St; Ends at Ferrara Bakery & Cafe, 195 Grand St.
Cost: Starting from $65
Just when those post-Pride month blues started to kick in - head over to Jackson Heights to show your support for the 1st Trans Fest. This day-long celebration is geared towards Trans diversity and rights.
When: Saturday, July 27, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: 3763 83rd, Jackson Heights
Cost: Free
John Mayer at Madison Square Garden
While you are waiting … waiting on the world to change, let John Mayer serenade you at MSG this weekend. John Mayer’s solo North American tour is coming directly after his tour with Dead & Company - the Grateful Dead offshoot.
When: Thursday, July 25 7:30 p.m., Friday, July 26 7:30 p.m
Where: Madison Square Garden
Cost: Starting at $99
The biggest natural beauty festival returns to Randall’s Island. Grab your tickets for CURLFEST and prepare yourself for a Saturday filled with music, food, shops, art, conversation and most importantly - natural beauty. Sunday’s festivities will take place at a roller rink with a live DJ.
When: Saturday, July 27 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Sunday, July 28 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Where:
Saturday - CURLFEST at Randall's Island Park
Sunday - CURLFEST Roller Set skate + day party at Lefrak Center at Lakeside in Brooklyn (Must be 21+ to attend)
Cost: Starts at $30
Street festivals give our streets a break from the traffic and construction. Walk through 50+ food tents and 500+ merchandise booths right in the heart of the city. Bring the family or even your dog!
When: Saturday, July 27, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: 6th Avenue from 42nd - 56th St
Cost: Free
Summertime means country music, beer and the beach. Head on down to the Jersey shore for Dierks Bently’s return to PNC. Jon Pardi and Tenille Townes will be opening the night.
When: Friday, July 26, 7:00 p.m.
Where: PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel N.J.
Cost: Starting from $33
The New York City Poetry Festival
For the 9th year in a row, the New York City Poetry Festival will take over Governors Island. Hear from the best of New York’s poet community as they leave their coffee shops and University libraries to share with your their works.
When: Saturday, July 27, 11:00 a.m. to Sunday, July 28, 6:00 p.m.
Where: Colonel’s Row, Governors Island
Cost: Free
