10+ Things To Do in New York City This Week (May 25-31)
How are you wrapping up the last week of May in the city? The final stretch of May usually feels lively around New York. In this guide to 10+ things to do in New York City this week (May 25-31), you’ll find events, activities, and local happenings across NYC. This list rounds up things worth checking out so the week doesn’t just pass by unnoticed.
Note: Always confirm event details on official websites, as schedules often change. While admission might be free, some spots require an RSVP, and you should still plan to pay separately for food, beverages, and any extras.
10+ Fun Things to Do in New York City This Week (May 25-31)
Free Fun Events & Activities
Bryant Park Picnic Performances
May 28 (Jazzmobile: Wycliffe Gordon and Friends)丨May 29 (New York City Opera: American Classics)
Trying to keep your week budget-friendly without staying home every night? Bryant Park Picnic Performances remain one of the best free things to do in NYC this week. On May 28, Jazzmobile presents Wycliffe Gordon and Friends on the lawn for an upbeat jazz performance, while May 29 shifts into opera classics with the New York City Opera cast. Pack some snacks, borrow one of the picnic blankets, and settle in before sunset for a relaxed evening right in Midtown.
2026 Taste of Korea in the Bronx
May 30, 2026丨Lincoln Ave (Between E 135th St & 136th St), Bronx 丨Free admission
For your Saturday plan? Visit The Bronx for one of the exciting NYC food festivals happening this week, where Korean street food, mocktails, games, hanbok experiences, and cultural showcases set the scene in the neighborhood for the day. You can snack on trendy Seoul-inspired bites, jump into Korean pop-culture challenges with friends, then stop by the painting and craft corners when you need a break from the crowd.
FAD Market at The Seaport
May 30, 2026丨Seaport Square
FAD Market heads to the waterfront with a beautifully curated marketplace set against sweeping views of the East River and Lower Manhattan. You’ll be able to browse more than 50 independent makers and small creative businesses offering handcrafted jewelry, artwork, fashion, home goods, and unique gifts.
If you’re planning to attend, you may want to check the FAD Market’s event page for the full visiting details before you go. After exploring the market, you might also consider walking along the Seaport waterfront or grabbing a bite at one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the river.
JAPAN Fes New York 2026
May 30 (Upper East Side)丨May 31 (East Village)
Even without the 14-hour flight to Tokyo, you can experience the flavors of Japan right here in the city. JAPAN Fes brings together dozens of food vendors serving authentic Japanese street food like ramen, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and matcha treats.
Since locations and vendors can vary by date, it’s a good idea to explore JAPAN Fes NYC’s official website before heading out to see where the next event will be held. It’s one of the most exciting outdoor festivals in NYC this weekend for food lovers.
Home Goods Bazaar
May 31, 2026丨100 West 77th St., New York
If you’re looking to refresh your living space, the Home Goods Bazaar is the perfect place to browse creative and stylish finds. The market brings together talented makers offering unique home décor, handcrafted accessories, and functional design pieces.
You’ll discover items that add personality and warmth to your home while supporting local businesses and programs that fund NYC public schools. If you plan to visit, take a moment to check the Grand Bazaar NYC’s event page for market details before heading over.
International Franchise Expo
May 29–30, 2026丨Javits Center丨Free with online registration
The International Franchise Expo is among the premier franchise events that attract entrepreneurs and business owners from across the country and around the world. With more than 200 franchise brands and industry experts in attendance, you’ll have the opportunity to explore potential business opportunities and learn directly from professionals.
If you’re interested in launching a franchise or expanding your business portfolio, this event offers valuable insights and networking opportunities. Be sure to visit the official International Franchise Expo page to review the exhibitor list and event schedule before attending.
South Bronx Culture Festival
May 29–30, 2026丨Father Gigante Plaza
The South Bronx Culture Festival celebrates the vibrant cultural heritage of the Bronx with this year’s theme: Dream Big, Stay Rooted. Over two days, you’ll experience live performances highlighting Latin Jazz, Mambo, Salsa, and Afro-Cuban Hip Hop.
Along with music and dance performances, you’ll also find art activities for all ages, making this a great outing if you’re searching for things to do in NYC today with family. Since the event is open to everyone, it’s also one of the best free things to do in NYC this weekend.
Fun Pop-Ups & Beauty Experiences
U.S. Soccer Store Pop-Up
Starting May 25, 2026丨Grand Central Terminal
If you find yourself in Midtown this week, be sure to stop by the U.S. Soccer Store pop-up. You can customize jerseys, browse limited-edition NYC merch, snap photos around the space, and check out collaborations with brands like Nike, Levi’s, and New Era.
With FIFA excitement building across the city, this stop is part of the growing list of FIFA fan events in New York City. Visa cardholders can also unlock exclusive perks during select activations.
Jung Saem Mool Glass Skin Atelier Pop-Up
May 28-June 2, 2026丨Union Square
Your skincare routine doesn’t often include a VR trip to Seoul, but this pop-up changes that instantly. The Jung Saem Mool Glass Skin Atelier offers shade-matching tech, K-beauty masterclasses, personalized makeup sessions, collagen tea drinks, and interactive beauty experiences for a few days only. Arrive early if you want the limited-edition gift sets because the first guests each day get the best rewards.
Song of Skin “AIR SOS” Pop-Up
May 29-31, 2026丨188 Lafayette St, New York
Need a quick SoHo stop after work? The Song of Skin ‘SOS AIR’ Pop-Up is your go-to destination for skincare freebies, themed gift sets, and travel-inspired beauty experiences. RSVP guests receive complimentary gifts at the door, while shoppers who spend enough enjoy exclusive totes packed with skincare products.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Brooklyn Film Festival
May 29-June 7, 2026丨Multiple venues丨Ticketed (Some events are free)
The Brooklyn Film Festival gives you a good excuse to spend an evening watching independent films. This long-running film festival brings together 140 films across several Brooklyn venues, plus filmmaker panels and industry conversations, making it one of the top things to do in Brooklyn this week. You can catch screenings at the Wythe Hotel, BRIC, or Greenpoint locations, then grab dinner nearby and keep the night going.
Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix
May 30-31, 2026丨Various boarding locations丨Ticketed
Outdoor plans this weekend? Grab a spot near the harbor and watch high-speed catamarans race across the water with the Manhattan skyline sitting right behind them. The Sail Grand Prix brings 12 national teams to New York Harbor, and the boats move fast enough to keep everyone glued to the action.
Brooklyn Cyclones Baseball
Select Days丨Maimonides Park
A Brooklyn Cyclones game is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a relaxed evening by the water. You can cheer on the team while enjoying classic ballpark snacks and the lively crowd atmosphere at Maimonides Park.
If you’re already visiting Coney Island, you might consider pairing the game with a walk along the boardwalk or a stop at nearby food spots for a casual night.
New York Liberty Basketball
Select Days丨Barclays Center
Catch the excitement of WNBA basketball as the New York Liberty take the court at Barclays Center. The team delivers high-energy games that are fun for longtime basketball fans and newcomers alike.
Before attending, you may want to check the team’s schedule online to see upcoming opponents and game times.
Must-See Concerts & Shows
Charlie Puth
May 29, 2026丨Madison Square Garden
Chart-topping pop star Charlie Puth brings his signature sound to Madison Square Garden for an evening of global hits and fan favorites. Known for songs like Attention, We Don’t Talk Anymore, and the record-breaking See You Again, Puth has built an impressive career with billions of streams worldwide.
Kid Cudi
May 30, 2026丨Madison Square Garden
Kid Cudi returns to the stage with his highly anticipated Rebel Rager Tour. The Grammy-winning rapper and producer is known for blending hip-hop, rock, and alternative influences to create a distinctive sound that resonates with fans across genres. If you’re interested in attending, you can check Kid Cudi’s tour page ahead of time for ticket options and performance details.
John Oliver and Seth Meyers
May 31, 2026丨Beacon Theatre
Late-night comedy fans won’t want to miss this special double-headlining show featuring John Oliver and Seth Meyers. The two comedians take the stage together for an evening of sharp humor, insightful commentary, and plenty of laughs.
Originally launched as a short residency, the show became so popular that it has continued into 2026. If you’re looking for fun activities in NYC for adults, this comedy night makes for a great evening out. You may want to explore the show page for ticket details and performance updates.
Memorial Day Celebrations
Memorial Day Ceremony at the Intrepid Museum
May 25, 2026丨Intrepid Museum丨Free with admission
Join the Intrepid Museum for a moving Memorial Day ceremony honoring the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who lost their lives in service. The ceremony features remarks from civic and military leaders, a wreath-laying tribute, and veterans unfurling a massive 100-foot American flag.
The program concludes with the playing of Taps and a Navy fighter jet flyover. Since it’s held at the museum’s pier along the Hudson River, you might also enjoy walking along the nearby waterfront afterward or exploringHudson River Park.
Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade
May 25, 2026丨Starts at 3rd Avenue and 78th Street
Brooklyn’s Memorial Day Parade is one of the city’s longest-running tributes honoring military service members. You’ll see marching bands, veterans groups, and community organizations paying their respects through traditional ceremonies, including a wreath laying, bagpipes, and a 21-gun salute.
Since it takes place in a lively neighborhood, you might also consider exploring local cafés or restaurants in Bay Ridge after the parade.
Memorial Day Weekend Pub Crawl
May 22, 2026丨Various venues丨Ticketed
Kick off Memorial Day weekend with a lively pub crawl through one of the city’s most popular nightlife districts. The event includes exclusive drink specials, free shots at participating bars, and skip-the-line entry at select venues.
Guided by event hosts, you’ll move from bar to bar, meeting other party-goers and enjoying the city’s nightlife scene. If you’re planning to join, it’s a good idea to explore the pub crawl’s event page for the meeting point, participating venues, and full details beforehand.
Other Events/Activities to Check Out This Week
- Smorgasburg – Thursdays & Fridays (World Trade Center)丨Thursday – Saturday (Central Park)丨Saturdays (Williamsburg)丨Sundays (Prospect Park)丨Free admission
- Free Shakespeare in the Park: Romeo & Juliet – Until June 28, 2026丨The Revitalized Delacorte Theater丨Free admission
- Backyard at Hudson Yards – Until October 2026丨Public Square and Gardens丨Free (Please check each event’s schedule as dates and days vary)
Need help mapping out the perfect city takeover?
While the weekly events are great for catching what’s happening right now, a solid plan is the real secret to mastering the city without the stress. You don’t want to waste half your day figuring out subway routes or missing out on a landmark because you didn’t realize it was just two blocks away.
Have a long weekend or a full week to explore? We’ve laid out the most efficient ways to see it all. Check out our Your NYC Itinerary for 3, 5, and 7 Day Trips guide to make sure every minute of your visit counts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. New York City marks Memorial Day with a variety of ceremonies, parades, and community events. You’ll find tributes at places like the Intrepid Museum, neighborhood parades across the boroughs, and special programs honoring veterans and fallen service members.
Memorial Day weekend is actually a great time to visit. The weather is usually warm and comfortable, outdoor markets and street festivals start appearing across the city, and there are plenty of seasonal events to enjoy.
If you’re thinking about a quick getaway, popular options include the Hamptons, the Hudson Valley, and the Jersey Shore. Each destination offers beaches, scenic views, and relaxing escapes just a few hours from the city. But if you stay in town, you’ll still find plenty of things to do in Manhattan for free and throughout the boroughs.
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