Put Some Spring in Your Step With Seasonal Events

From Gallery Week to the Greenmarket, Here Are a Few Ways to Take Advantage of the Season

By IRELAND CARTER

Hey, we all need a study break, and with warmer weather comes a slew of events and activities to enjoy. (Doug Baum/The Observer)
Published: April 22, 2010

You look outside your window and you can finally see the sun. Say goodbye to your winter coat, gloves and hats and say hello to your sandals. With spring in full bloom and the bitter cold months over, it is time to embrace the beautiful season and explore all New York City has to offer. There are countless opportunities to take advantage of the greatest city in the world during the most beautiful season. Here are four ideas sure to get you going in the right direction:

 

Check out America’s Past Time

Take in a baseball game. Whether you’re a Mets or Yankees fan, it’s finally time to enjoy the outdoor ball games once again. Eat some peanuts or crackerjacks and enjoy the smell of freshly cut grass. Oh, and go for the cheap tickets, even if that means obstructed views or sitting in the bleachers. You’re a college student trying to get by on a budget and just being in the stadium atmosphere is what makes this a great choice for a spring activity. Bring your friends and root, root, root for the home team!

New York Mets: Citi Field Stadium in New York, NY; tickets start at $21; (mets.mlb.com).
New York Yankees: Yankee Stadium in Bronx, NY; tickets start at $5; (yankees.mlb.com).

 

Go Veggie at the Greenmarket

Stroll around and score free food samples at the Union Square Greenmarket, where over 140 producers offer up their finest. Greenmarket works on continuing to provide local produce for New Yorkers and promoting regional agriculture. While the market is open year-round, there is something to be said about walking around in the beautiful weather and taking in the colorful foods. After going here and seeing what’s available, you may actually want to eat your veggies.

33 East 17th St., New York, NY 10003

Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; (cenyc.org/greenmarket).

 

Get Artistic with Gallery Week

Enjoy Gallery Week when 50 galleries throughout the city will have extended hours and offer special programs. After all, celebration weeks aren’t just reserved for fashion and restaurants. Attend one or all of the programs listed for an incredible weekend of the arts. The kick-off program on May 7 is at 7:30 p.m. and consists of listening to artist Richard Galpin explain pieces of his work at the High Line. It is completely free and open to the public, so don’t miss out—especially if you haven’t been to the High Line yet. It really is worth seeing and will most likely become one of your favorite spots in the city. For the rest of the weekend, view the complete schedule online and pick and choose some of your favorite galleries.

May 7-10 at various locations; (newyorkgalleryweek.com).

 

Explore the World Without Leaving the City

It’s hard to imagine Ninth Avenue without cars constantly rushing past, isn’t it? Well take part in Ninth Avenue International Food Festival and that’s exactly what you’ll see. The avenue closes to cars between 37th and 57th Streets in order to accommodate all kinds of street fair stalls. Want crispy squid? Get it near 42nd Street. Want clams and oysters? Get them near 38th Street. Besides food, there will be over 200 vendors selling various items and live entertainment of international music and dance on Sunday at 55th Street. Be one of the million-plus people who attend this festival and you won’t regret it.

May 15-16, 9:30a.m.-6:30p.m.; No admission fee; (hellskitchen.bz).