Best Things To Do in New York City This Week (May 12-18)
New York City offers a diverse array of events this week. From live performances to cultural festivals, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in music, comedy, or art, the city has you covered. Here’s a curated list of activities to consider.​
Things to Do in NYC (May 12 – 18)
Saturday Night Live’s Season Finale

“Saturday Night Live” concludes its 50th season with Scarlett Johansson hosting and Bad Bunny as the musical guest. The episode airs live on NBC at 11:30 p.m. ET. ​
- Website: https://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live
- Date: May 17th
Hugh Jackman’s Concert Series

Hugh Jackman continues his “From New York, With Love” concert series, featuring songs from his film and Broadway repertoire. Performances are scheduled for May 16 and 17. ​
- Website: https://hughjackmantour.us/
- Location: Radio City Music Hall
- Date: May 16 & 17th
Ninth Avenue International Food Festival

Experience a variety of international cuisines, live entertainment, and local vendors at the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival. The event takes place along Ninth Avenue in Manhattan. ​
- Website: https://www.ninthavenuefoodfestival.com/
- Location: 629 Ninth Ave, New York
- Date: May 17 & 18th
Sonia Gomes’ Exhibition

Discover Brazilian artist Sonia Gomes’s fabric-based sculptures in her first U.S. solo institutional exhibition, “Sonia Gomes: Ó Abre Alas!,” at Storm King Art Center.
- Website: https://www.pacegallery.com/
- Location: Storm King Art Center
- Date: Ongoing
Argentine Tango Ballet

Experience the world premiere of an Argentine tango ballet featuring star dancers and live music by Tango Bardo at the Astor Piazzolla Extravaganza. The performance takes place on May 16. ​
- Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/
- Location: Astor Piazzolla Extravaganza
- Date: May 16th
Scratch-and-Sniff Armpit Campaign

Personal care brand Billie has launched a unique advertising campaign in New York City, featuring scratch-and-sniff posters of their new Coco Villa deodorant scent. The campaign runs until May 16. ​
- Website: https://mybillie.com/
- Location: 505 8th Avenue close to Penn Station
- Date: Until May 16th
New York Mets vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

Cheer on the New York Mets as they face the Pittsburgh Pirates in a three-game series at Citi Field. Games are scheduled for May 12, 13, and 14. ​
- Website: https://www.mlb.com/mets/schedule/2025-05
- Location: Citi Field
- Date: May 12 – 14th
Passion Pit’s Residency

Catch Passion Pit’s performances at Deluxx Fluxx, featuring both classic hits and new material from Michael Angelakos’s latest project. Shows start at 8:00 p.m. EDT. ​
- Website: https://www.deluxxfluxx.com/deluxx-fluxx-nyc
- Location: Deluxx Fluxx
- Date: May 13 & 14th
John Oliver & Seth Meyers Live

Comedians John Oliver and Seth Meyers team up for a live performance at the Beacon Theatre. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on May 18. ​
- Website: https://www.ticketmaster.com/
- Location: Beacon Theatre
- Date: May 18th
NYCxDESIGN Festival

Experience New York City’s annual design festival featuring exhibitions, open studios, and talks across the five boroughs. The festival concludes on May 15. ​
- Website: https://nycxdesign.org/
- Date: Until May 15th
From high-profile events like SNL’s season finale to local cultural experiences, New York City offers a diverse array of activities this week. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s plenty to see and do. Plan ahead and make the most of what the city has to offer. Stay safe and enjoy your week in the Big Apple.​
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