The Very Best of NYC Special Events

Ariel Schrag, Mermaid Parade, Bastille Day and much more

At Brooklyn’s Greenlight Bookstore on Jun 18, enjoy a discussion with Ariel Schrag, the author of the newly published novel, Adam, which is sort of about a cis boy who passes for a trans boy and falls for a lesbian. Schrag will talk about gender, honesty and underage drinking with Maris Kreizman, former book editor and creator of the beloved literature/TV mashup blog Slaughter house 90210.

On Jun 19, join Stonewall Community Foundation at the Museum of the City of New York for their signature fundraising event, the Stonewall Vision Awards, honoring Isaac Mizrahi, Janet Mock, Jason Collins, Lee Daniels and Marita Begley.

Kelly Behun and Jay Sugarman are offering up their Hamptons home on Jun 21 to host Midsummer Night Drinks, a fundraising event benefitting God’s Love We Deliver. Now in its 14th year, this oceanfront reception has become one of the most anticipated events of the Hamptons season and raises money for programs helping those with cancer, HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses.

The outrageous and uniquely New York event, the Mermaid Parade, will take place as always on Coney Island Jun 21. The largest art parade in the nation, it’s a colossal celebration of folklore and legend with over 1,500 creative individuals showcasing their original body art, mermaid-themed costumes and so much more. Not for the faint of heart, the seminude spectacle of the Mermaid Parade brings out the boldest free spirits from all five boroughs to celebrate community, art and individual spirit. This year’s King Neptune and Queen Mermaid are our mayor’s kids, Dante and Chiara De Blasio!

It may be in its 38th year, but the annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular never disappoints! With past performances by Cher, Mariah Carey and Taylor Swift, this year’s lineup (hey, we like Lionel Richie!) is sure to delight viewers of all ages. Whether you watch from the comfort of your own home on TV, or you venture to Brooklyn with the rest of the crowds, Macy’s will provide everyone with a superb, eye-catching experience.

Celebrate Bastille Day a day early (on the weekend!) and revel in the best French culture that NYC has to offer. It’s the French Institute/Alliance Française’s annual street fair, featuring quintessential French food like crêpes, éclairs and artisanal cheeses, served with refreshing wines and beers. Top if off with live music, and you won’t want to miss Gotham’s ultimate French fête. Vive la France on Jul 13!

Digging Up Da Sistah Roots 3 takes place at Brooklyn Borough Hall on Jul 18. Save the date for this absolutely amazing tribute to lesbians of the past who paved the way for LGBT women of today. Hosted by Circle of Voices, Inc., and by Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, former NYS Senator. Kaz Mitchell will moderate the evening’s festivities.

Resorts World Casino is much more than just gambling. Kick off your weekend on a Friday night with a live DJ, special performances by freestyle artists, dance pop musicians and other Hi-NRG entertainers. Plus, all kinds of video slots and table games, of course!

From Jul 11-13, join hundreds of dodgeball divas as they gear up for the grittiest game of beach dodgeball Asbury Park, NJ has ever seen! Diva on the Shore features a free kickoff party at the Yacht Club, girl-on-girl dodgeball tournament on the beach, the “Leather and Lace” afterparty at Wonder Bar and brunch on Sunday. See our nightlife listings for all the details.

Get your tickets ASAP for Sand Blast Weekend, the action-packed women’s event just around the corner, Jul 18-20 in Atlantic City, NJ. There’ll be a kickoff party on Friday night, pool party on Saturday, dancing on Saturday night, hot DJs, brunch on the Boardwalk, surfing and paddle board lessons, beach yoga and dodgeball. Sand Blast Women’s Weekend has something for everyone! See our nightlife listings for all the details.


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