Whether you’re spending the weekend alone, with a partner, or with a group of friends, there is an abundance of events or activities to go to, or take part in, that will get you out of your apartment and into the bustle and excitement that New York City has to offer. No matter where you live, if you don’t have any plans this weekend, don’t sweat it; just read below to find out about the exciting happenings near you, this weekend.
Friday, March 11
Art Beats + Lyrics: Explore this traveling urban art and music exhibition that features creators of unique art experiences who seek to move culture forward. Founded by Cult Creative, the main mission of the installation is to support visionary artists and musicians who share the same values of authenticity, creativity, and individuality. Past artists include Snarky Puppy, Teddy Riley, Mansions On The Moon, Kendrick Lamar, and Shock-G. The exhibit is curated so that the audience can interact within the ‘space’ and ultimately leave feeling inspired. Make sure to RSVP on the website. Knockdown Center, 52-19 Flushing Ave Queens, NY 11378.
A Taste of California in NYC at CAMP 5th Ave: Escape the winter blues with CAMP’s getaway to the Golden State in partnership with Visit California. In celebration of the interactive toy store’s new LA location, CAMP has collaborated with Visit California for a special event with celebrity chef Jet Tila — widely recognized as the creator of the world’s biggest California roll (422 feet). Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Chef Tila and, of course, taste the shrunken down version of the sushi roll that made him famous.This event is free for all ages with prior registration required from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. CAMP, 110 Fifth Ave New York, NY 10011.
The Chelsea Symphony: For the entire month of March, in honor of International Women’s Day The Chelsea Symphony will be showcasing the artistry of women and non-binary musicians in their community and beyond. Starting this Friday, beginning at 8 PM, the bassoonist, Melissa Kritzer will take center stage each night, with a solo performance of the World Premiere of Scott Switzer’s Meditations and Reflections (3/11 only). Following on Saturday, soloist Nisreen Nor will perform Miguel del Aguila’s Malambo. Both concerts will conclude with Fernande Breilh Decruck’s Partita for Strings, Brass and Timpani, and Florence Price’s Symphony No. 1. Tickets can be bought on their website. St. Paul’s Church, 315 West 22nd Street
Saturday, March 12
CCCADI Sou Sou Saturday: On March 12th from 1 – 5 PM, The Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute is welcoming families with children of all ages and genders to participate in their art therapy event. In collaboration with The Shabazz Center for their March children’s art education program, participants will reflect on the women in their lives by engaging in physical movement through the exploration of dance traditions created by “our femme forebearers.” Additionally, guests can take part in some of the ancestral practices of African garment design that embody women’s stories. Registration is on the CCCADI website. The Shabazz Center, 3940 Broadway.
Gardening in Place: As we emerge from a time of being tethered inside by the pandemic, the importance of nature and the outdoors has never been a more significant part of our lives. In recognition of this, on March 12th, The Brooklyn Botanic Garden will be hosting a free virtual “Making Brooklyn Bloom Event” on Zoom to celebrate the ways in which gardeners – as well as the plants they know and love – shape the meaning of place, home and belonging. There will also be a discussion about the often-overlooked, horticultural histories along with a few personal life stories to uncover the ways in which each person’s idiosyncrasies are reflected in their garden. To gain access to the zoom link, registration is on their website, and pre registration is required.
Sunday, March 13
MET Museum Afrofuturism Exhibit: This Sunday, from 2-3 PM, attend one of the MET museum’s newest exhibits, “’In the Parlor’: A Conversation on Before Yesterday We Could Fly: An Afrofuturist Period Room”. Tickets are free with Museum admission, and guests are able to join the artists featured in the exhibition to hear about their creative processes and the significance of Afrofuturism in their artistic practices. The conversation will open with a sonic sound bath experience by artist Rena Anakwe. Space is limited, and access into the exhibit will be on a first come, first serve basis. To receive tickets, go to the MET museum website.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration: The Irish Arts Center is celebrating the St. Patrick’s season with a special Open Day that includes live music and dance, crafts, and a free sampling of educational offerings. Among the wide-range of activities that are available, starting at 12 pm, the Center has musical performances by Pamela Jean Agaloos and Matthew Diaz, as well as dance performance and lessons by the Niall O’Leary School of Irish Dance to learn the intricate art of Irish step. You will also have the chance to explore the art of printmaking, discover the NYC Tree Alphabet by artist Katie Holten, and plant a clover to take home. To get tickets, go to the Center’s website.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Break out your four leaf clovers and pots of gold, because this Sunday is The 24th annual Throggs Neck St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a great way to kick off the upcoming holiday. The March Formation will begin at 11 a.m. at East Tremont at Lafayette Avenue, and the Parade will officially begin at 12 noon. The parade route is just about a mile and a half and will end on Harding Avenue, close to Brinsmade. To confirm your participation in the parade, fill in this form.
