After a very rainy start to the week, there’s some good — and dry — news for New York: The Meatpacking District’s iconic Red Umbrellas are back, signaling sunny weather and preparing the city for lots of fun events in the neighborhood this spring.
A special launch event on Saturday, April 13, will celebrate the return of the umbrellas, which were tucked away safe and sound for the winter. Starting at 9:30 a.m. New Yorkers can enjoy a day packed with free activities for all ages hosted by local businesses.
Begin the day with free coffee from Terremoto Coffee, and then enjoy a slew of other fun activities including art workshops, complimentary custom portraits, refreshments and performances.
Graham 2, the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance’s second dance company, will perform at 5 p.m. to wrap up the celebration.
Jeffrey LeFrancois, executive director of the Meatpacking District Management Association, is excited to open the umbrellas on the neighborhood’s historic plaza. He said they have become a signature seasonal fixture on the West Side.
“They’ve become just as much of a signifier of the neighborhood as our cobblestone streets and distinct facades,” LeFrancois said. “Last year was the first time we threw a celebratory event in honor of their return to the neighborhood after the winter. It was an extremely well received event by both the local business who participated and those who attended. By this time of year, New Yorkers are always excited to ring in the overdue start of spring, so it’s a great opportunity to bring people outdoors to provide a taste of all that the neighborhood has to offer – entertainment, refreshments and other fun activities.”
Spring events in the Meatpacking District
In addition to the Red Umbrellas kick-off celebration, the Meatpacking District will remain a hotspot for fun throughout the season. Check out these events happening in the neighborhood this spring.
Free Second Sundays at the Whitney
WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art; 99 Gansevoort St.
WHEN: Every second Sunday of the month; 10:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Enjoy free admission to the museum that includes art activities, tours and classes.
WANT TO GO? Free, but tickets are required. Advance tickets recommended.
Free Friday Nights at the Whitney
WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art; 99 Gansevoort St.
WHEN: Friday evenings, 5 – 10 p.m.
Enjoy free admission, music and special programming.
WANT TO GO? Free, but tickets are required. Advance tickets recommended.
Movies on the Cobbles
WHERE: Gansevoort Plaza; Ninth Avenue and Gansevoort Street
WHEN: June
This exciting event series returns in June featuring film screenings on the neighborhood’s iconic cobblestones.
WANT TO GO? More information will be announced. Check the website for updates.
Gansevoort Rooftop DJ Nights
WHERE: Gansevoort Hotel; 18 Ninth Ave.
WHEN: Fridays and Saturdays, 9 p.m.
Take in breathtaking views of Manhattan and the Hudson River while enjoying music, dancing and more.
WANT TO GO? Check the website for more information.
Chelsea Symphony
WHERE: Chelsea Market; 16 Street
WHEN: Wednesday, April 17; 4:30 – 6 p.m.
Do some shopping and enjoy musical performances from the Chelsea Symphony inside the market.
WANT TO GO? Free.
Draw with Street Lab
WHERE: The Chelsea Local; 85 10 Ave.
WHEN: Friday, April 19, 12- 3 p.m.
Embrace your creative side by drawing at this pop-up studio that includes art materials and a place to do your work.
WANT TO GO? Check the website for more information.
Bingo at the Grill
WHERE: The Standard Grill; 848 Washington St.
WHEN: Sundays, 9 – 11 p.m.
Enjoy themed Bingo on Sundays. Costumes encouraged!
WANT TO GO? Minimum spend of $50 per person.
