Top Gala Events in NYC for 2026
If there’s one thing New York does especially well, it’s turning philanthropy into a night out worth planning around.
If there’s one thing New York does especially well, it’s turning philanthropy into a night out worth planning around. The city’s 2026 lineup of galas and benefit events brings together art, fashion, performance, culture, and fundraising in some of its most iconic venues, from museum halls and rooftop spaces to Lincoln Center stages and classic black-tie ballrooms. Whether you’re drawn to buzzy after parties, elegant benefit dinners, or major cultural institutions hosting their biggest nights of the year, these are the top gala and benefit events in NYC you won’t want to miss.
January 2026
Whitney Art Party 2026
Tuesday, January 27
Whitney Museum of American Art
One of the strongest younger-skewing art benefit nights on the calendar, with cocktails, music, exhibition access, and a crowd that always makes this one feel like a true can’t-miss event.
February 2026
New York Junior League 74th Annual Winter Ball
Saturday, February 28
Cipriani South Street
A classic black-tie New York fundraising event and one of the biggest philanthropic social nights of the winter season.
March 2026
The New York Classical Theatre Gala
Tuesday, March 24
6:30 PM
The Manhattan Penthouse
A strong early-spring pick for anyone looking for a theater-forward gala with a polished but less over-the-top atmosphere.
Horological Society of New York 2026 Gala & Charity Auction
Saturday, March 21
A more niche but very New York black-tie benefit, with a charity-auction angle that makes it stand out from the more traditional gala circuit.
Autism Speaks Celebrity Chef Gala
Tuesday, March 31
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cipriani Wall Street
A large-scale fundraising gala with a strong culinary component and one of the more established charity benefit nights of the spring.
April 2026
Public Art Fund Party / After Party
Wednesday, April 8
Metropolitan Pavilion
One of the best spring art-benefit nights if you want a downtown creative crowd, plus an after party that gives it even more editorial appeal.
FIT Annual Gala + Afterparty: Threads of Impact
Tuesday, April 14
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Afterparty 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cathedral of St. John the Divine
A high-energy fashion and philanthropy evening with one of the strongest afterparty angles of the season.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Gala: Rhythms That Move the World
Wednesday, April 15
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Afterparty to follow
Frederick P. Rose Hall
A top-tier music benefit if you want something refined, iconic, and very New York.
The Bronx Museum Gala & Art Auction
Wednesday, April 15
6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Tribeca Rooftop
A stylish museum benefit with an art auction and after-party energy, making it one of the more dynamic events of the month.
Joyce Theater Foundation Gala
Wednesday, April 15
6:00 PM
City Winery New York City
A smart pick for dance and performance lovers looking for something elegant but still culturally specific.
Young America Grand Prix Gala
Thursday, April 16
7:00 PM
David H. Koch Theater
A standout Lincoln Center gala that brings together ballet, performance, and a classic New York gala setting.
American Friends of the Louvre New York Gala
Sunday, April 19
7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Rainbow Room
A skyline-setting art gala with a timeless New York feel and a more international museum benefit angle.
Ad Age A-List & Creativity Awards Gala
Monday, April 20
6:00 PM
The Glasshouse
More media-and-brand world than traditional museum gala, but still a strong inclusion for an NYC event roundup with broad appeal.
New York Academy of Art Tribeca Ball
Monday, April 20
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
New York Academy of Art
One of the city’s best-known art-benefit nights and always a strong pick for stylish spring coverage.
SAY’s 24th Annual NYC Benefit Gala
Monday, April 20
Current, New York City
A worthwhile benefit gala centered on performance, community, and fundraising, with a polished city setting.
City Harvest Gala: Shaken, Not Stirred
Tuesday, April 21
6:30 PM
Cipriani 42nd Street
A major Manhattan charity gala and one of the more established spring fundraising events in the city.
Young Members Party
Thursday, April 23
7:30 PM – 11:00 PM
The Met Fifth Avenue
An easy addition for a spring gala roundup, this after-hours Met party brings a younger, more social energy to the season, with a stylish museum setting that makes it feel both cultural and fun. The Met describes this year’s edition as Renaissance Redefined, inspired by Raphael’s timeless vision.
New York Harbor Sailing Foundation: The Sailors Ball
Friday, April 24
9:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Downtown Association
A more social, late-night benefit option that feels fun and festive rather than overly formal.
New York Junior League Savor the Spring: A Night Through the Decades
Saturday, April 25
The Astor House
A polished spring fundraiser with a classic New York social crowd and an approachable black-tie feel.
St. Jude Hope and Heritage Gala
Saturday, April 25
6:30 PM
New York City
A major charitable gala with dinner, dancing, and fundraising tied to one of the most recognizable nonprofit organizations in the country.
New York City Children’s Theater 30th Anniversary Gala
Monday, April 27
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Elsie Penthouse
A more intimate theater-focused benefit that works well for a well-rounded city gala guide.
Open House New York Open City Benefit
Tuesday, April 28
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
3 World Trade Center
One of the more distinctive city-and-design-driven benefit events on the calendar.
New York Philharmonic Spring Gala
Tuesday, April 28
5:30 PM cocktail reception
7:00 PM concert
Dinner to follow
David Geffen Hall
A premier Lincoln Center gala and one of the standout cultural benefits of the spring season.
The BAM Ball / BAM Ball After Party
Wednesday, April 29
5:00 PM cocktails
6:00 PM dinner
8:00 PM performance
9:30 PM after party
One of the best culture-and-afterparty combinations in Brooklyn and an easy inclusion for any can’t-miss gala roundup.
Girls Inc. of NYC Lifting Girls Up Gala and College Shower
Wednesday, April 29
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Cipriani 25
A meaningful philanthropy-first event with a strong mission and a polished gala format.
Parkinson’s Foundation Celebrate Spring New York
Thursday, April 30
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Peak NYC
A sleek skyline-setting benefit to close out April in style.
May 2026
Ice Theatre of New York Benefit Gala and Performance
Monday, May 4
6:30 PM
Sky Rink and The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers
A more unusual and visually interesting gala format that stands out from the season’s many ballroom dinners.
Golden Hour: The ArtsConnection Masquerade
Tuesday, May 5
6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Prince George Ballroom
ArtsConnection’s spring benefit brings together artists, educators, activists, and philanthropists for a festive masquerade evening featuring live performances, interactive art activations, and an after party, with proceeds supporting arts education programming for New York City youth.
Asian Cultural Council (ACC) Announces 2026 Gala Celebrating Cultural Exchange and Global Impact
Wednesday, May 6
6:30 PM
Rainbow Room
The Asian Cultural Council’s biennial gala will bring together artists, curators, collectors, and cultural leaders from across the U.S. and Asia for an elegant evening celebrating cultural exchange and global artistic impact. Held at the Rainbow Room, the event will welcome members of the international arts community in support of ACC’s mission to foster cross-cultural connections through grants and fellowships.
WhyHunger’s Chapin Awards Gala
Wednesday, May 6
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cipriani 25
A longstanding benefit with music-world credibility and broad philanthropic appeal.
Tenement Museum Gala: Windows onto the American Story
Wednesday, May 6
City Winery New York City
A distinctive history and storytelling-centered gala that feels refreshingly different from more traditional benefit dinners.
American Folk Art Museum Gala 2026
Wednesday, May 6
6:30 PM
Mandarin Oriental
A strong museum gala for collectors, patrons, and anyone drawn to New York’s art and culture circuit.
New York City Ballet Spring Gala: Set in Stone – Creation & Preservation
Thursday, May 7
David H. Koch Theater
One of the season’s true headliners, bringing together ballet, fashion, and philanthropy in one of the city’s most iconic venues.
The Ireland Funds New York Gala 2026
Thursday, May 7
Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers
A polished black-tie fundraiser that fits naturally into the city’s early May benefit calendar.
70th Anniversary of the Viennese Opera Ball
Friday, May 8
Cipriani 42nd Street
One of the city’s most classic old-world gala nights, with full black-tie grandeur and a long-standing social tradition.
Hudson River Community Sailing Dark ’n Stormy Benefit
Monday, May 11
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Frying Pan
A waterfront benefit with a more relaxed social energy that still feels worth dressing up for.
Brooklyn Museum Brooklyn Artists Ball
Monday, May 11
Brooklyn Museum
Always one of the hottest museum benefit tickets of the season and a favorite for art-world coverage.
MoMA PS1 50th Anniversary Gala
Tuesday, May 12
7:00 PM cocktails
8:00 PM dinner
10:00 PM after party
MoMA PS1
A major art-world night with strong afterparty appeal and one of the best overall event formats of the month.
Inner-City Scholarship Fund FRIENDS Gala
Tuesday, May 12
Cipriani 42nd Street
A dependable black-tie benefit for a traditional fundraising night in Midtown.
TOAST! to the Children hosted by Tom Colicchio of Top Chef
Tuesday, May 12
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Altman Building
Children of Bellevue’s signature annual culinary gala brings together 16 of New York City’s most celebrated chefs for a one-night-only tasting experience, with proceeds supporting vital programs for children and families at Bellevue.
BronxWorks Lifting Lives Gala
Tuesday, May 12
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
583 Park Avenue
A strong charity-gala addition with a more classic Manhattan benefit feel.
Skin Cancer Foundation Champions for Change Gala
Wednesday, May 13
6:00 PM
Ziegfeld Ballroom
A solid wellness and philanthropy-focused gala that still fits comfortably into the broader city social calendar.
Guggenheim Young Collectors Council Party
Thursday, May 14
9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Guggenheim Museum
One of the best younger-skewing museum benefit nights in the city and always a strong cultural pick.
New York Cares Soirée
Thursday, May 14
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
City Vineyard
A mission-driven event that still feels social, lively, and very New York.
Queens Museum 2026 Gala
Monday, May 18
6:30 PM cocktail reception
8:00 PM dinner and program
10:00 PM – 12:00 AM after party
Queens Museum
A great borough-spanning cultural benefit with a full-night format and afterparty appeal.
Manhattan Theatre Club Spring Gala 2026
Monday, May 18
7:00 PM
Cipriani 42nd Street
A strong theater-world gala with a performance-forward angle that makes it stand out.
New York Live Arts Gala 2026
Monday, May 18
6:00 PM cocktails
7:00 PM dinner and program
Dance party to follow
New York Live Arts
A downtown performance and dance crowd favorite with more energy than a standard gala dinner.
Whitney Gala 2026
Tuesday, May 19
Whitney Museum of American Art
One of the season’s marquee museum benefits and an easy must-include for any top NYC gala roundup.
Smithsonian National Design Awards Gala / Cooper Hewitt Support Page
Tuesday, May 19
National Museum of the American Indian
A major design-world gala that deserves a place on any broader arts-and-benefits calendar.
El Museo Gala 2026
Thursday, May 28
6:30 PM
Mandarin Oriental New York
A major end-of-May gala with strong style, cultural presence, and consistent editorial value.
June 2026
Two Ten Gala
Tuesday, June 2
6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
The Glasshouse
A polished benefit option with a modern Manhattan venue and an elegant format.
Art Omi NYC Benefit 2026
Wednesday, June 3
A stylish arts benefit that adds variety to the season with cocktails, dinner, and a more curated cultural focus.
The Public Theater Annual Gala
Monday, June 8
6:00 PM cocktail reception
7:00 PM dinner and performances
The Delacorte Theater lawn
A true can’t-miss for theater lovers and one of the strongest June benefit events in the city.
Night for Nature Gala
Tuesday, June 9
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Ascent Lounge
A mission-driven gala with a polished rooftop-adjacent feel that still works nicely in a general NYC events guide.
Museum of the City of New York Gala: Gotham Dreams
Wednesday, June 17
A fitting addition to the summer benefit calendar, especially for a city-focused roundup with strong institutional names.
September 2026
Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative Gala 2026
Friday, September 25
Gotham Hall
A strong fall gala option with a classic Midtown venue and a meaningful philanthropic mission.
Tina’s Wish Annual Gala
Tuesday, September 29
A major fundraising night tied to ovarian cancer research and prevention, and a strong September inclusion.
October 2026
New York City Ballet Fall Fashion Gala
Thursday, October 1
5:30 PM cocktail reception
7:00 PM performance
Dinner and dancing to follow
David H. Koch Theater
One of the defining fall gala events in New York and always one of the most visually compelling benefit nights of the year.
Watch List: 2026 Pages to Keep Checking
New York Public Library Benefit Events / Young Lions Benefit Party
Official NYPL benefit-events hub
A strong page to watch for additional 2026 public-facing gala and benefit announcements.
Library Lions Gala
New York Public Library
One of the city’s marquee literary and cultural gala brands, worth monitoring as more 2026 details are released.
Robin Hood Benefit
Robin Hood Foundation
One of New York’s biggest philanthropic nights, even if the full public event details are still limited.
Guggenheim Benefit Events
Guggenheim Museum
Valentine's day in NYC
Indulge in a romantic Valentine's Day celebration in NYC by exploring the following restaurants that offer a blend of exquisite cuisine and enchanting ambiance to add a touch of magic to your Valentine’s Day celebration.
Heighten the Romance on Valentine's Day with a Culinary Escape at These 8 NYC Restaurants
Indulge in a romantic Valentine's Day celebration in NYC by exploring the following restaurants that offer a blend of exquisite cuisine and enchanting ambiance to add a touch of magic to your Valentine’s Day celebration.
Sushi Lab (320 E. 11th Street) in the East Village is honoring Valentine's Day with a special 16-course omakase menu! The experience, priced at $125 per person will include an arrays of delicious bites in a romantic setting. Reservations are open for both the dining room and sushi counter with seatings available at 4:30 pm, 6 pm, 7:30 pm, and 9 pm. More information can be found by visiting, https://resy.com/cities/ny/venues/sushi-lab-east-village/events/valentines-day-2024-02-14?seats=2&date=2024-01-11
credit: Ramon Frias
Valentine’s Day Sake & Desserts Pairing Experience (Wednesday, 2/14 at 6pm; $99 per person): For a romantic evening with your S.O. or fun activity with your BFF, the experience includes a guided tasting of four craft sake and delectable, Asian-inspired desserts, including chocolate made with Brooklyn Kura’s Kasu (a by-product of production).
Who doesn’t love a good steak? Valentine's Day menu for Brooklyn Chop House
Amali (115 E. 60th St.) offers an exquisite Valentine's Day experience featuring a Champagne Flight as an optional add-on, presenting a 2oz tasting of three unique expressions of Champagne, including Champagne Jacquart 'Brut Mosaique,' Champagne de Villepin 'Blanc de Noirs,' and Veuve Clicquot 'Brut Rosé' for $45. The Prix Fixe menu, priced at $125 per person, is exclusively available on February 14th and serves as the sole offering, with all items later available as a la carte specials in the days and the weekend following the holiday. The A la Carte additions include delectable options such as a Half Dozen Beau Soleil Oysters with Horseradish Apple Mignonette for $24. The diverse menu features enticing courses like Tuna Carpaccio, Winter Citrus, Hiromasa, Stracciatella, and an array of pasta choices. For the main course, indulge in options like Roast Chicken, Filet Mignon, Red Snapper, Colorado Lamb Chops, or enhance the experience with a decadent A4 Australian Wagyu Filet Mignon for an additional $30. Concluding the meal on a sweet note, enjoy complimentary chocolate-covered strawberries alongside tempting desserts such as Truffle Sundae, Chocolate Mousse with Morello Cherry and Luxardo Cream, Basque Cheesecake, and Creme Brûlée with Tahitian Vanilla. Amali ensures a delightful Valentine's Day celebration with a perfect blend of culinary excellence and romantic ambiance.
Enjoy a romantic evening surrounded by rose petals and the soft glow of candlelight this Valentine's Day at Nerai (55 E. 54th Street) in Midtown East, and indulge in a 4-course prix fixe menu at $140 per person. On the menu, you'll find fresh crudo, warm king crab with citrus and fennel, fresh squid ink pasta with Maine lobster, seared scallops in a red pepper-paprika sauce, and a 28-day dry-aged New York Strip, to name a few. Nerai is currently accepting dinner reservations over the phone and online via Resy. To view the 4-course prix fixe menu, click here.
Fornino (849 Manhattan Ave.) in Greenpoint (only) will celebrate lovebirds between February 10th - 14th (minus Monday when they're closed but don't think that needs to be highlighted), with a special Valentine’s Day Pizza Love Kit. The kit is priced at $95 and includes an Imported Cheese and Fruit Plate, a Large Salad, Two Heart shaped Pizzas, Tiramisu, Chocolates, Strawberries and a bottle of red, white or bubbly. Orders can be placed by visiting www.fornino.com. Additionally, all month long, small pizzas can be made heart shaped by request for no additional cost.
Kissaki is offering an indulgent Valentine’s Day dinner experience at their UWS (286 Columbus Ave) and Bowery (319 Bowery) locations, featuring a meticulously crafted omakase menu. At UWS, exclusively on Valentine's Day, savor an enchanting Valentine's Day 16-course Omakase, requiring a non-refundable $100 per person ticket and priced at $185, offering meticulously crafted selections, including 4 appetizers, 10 specialty nigiri, a handroll, and a dessert, with seatings available at 6 PM and 8 PM. Meanwhile, at Bowery, diners can reserve the same experience from Valentine’s Day until Sunday, February 18th!
Halloween Happenings All Over Town
It's time to get into a spooky attitude now that Halloween is just around the corner. It is well known that NYC does the Halloween parties, and we anticipate that this year won't be any different. We compiled a list of the last minute Halloween activities in New York City this weekend.
It's time to get into a spooky attitude now that Halloween is just around the corner. It is well known that NYC does the Halloween parties, and we anticipate that this year won't be any different. Everyone may experience a little Halloween magic, regardless of whether they enjoy dressing up in costumes, being frightened in haunted houses, or simply enjoying the fall decorations. We compiled a list of the last minute Halloween activities in New York City this weekend.
Dances of Vice: Black Magic Halloween Ball
This Halloween, we’ve conjured a sumptuous sabbath of Halloween black magic to initiate you into the dark arts. This bewitching bacchanal will feature a theatrical Grand Guignol in three diabolical acts, replete with occult incantations, adulterous exorcisms, voodoo rituals, and a fiery trial by ordeal.
On the dance floor, devilish DJs will weave raucous spells to incite agile limbs to a frenzied St Vitus’ dance. In the VIP dungeon, equipped with the appliances of torment and pleasure, dommes will hex and heal consenting patrons eager to explore their limits in the pleasures of bondage, domination, submission and masochism.
Dungeon access is granted with VIP Ticket only. GA tickets are standing room only. Our costumed dress code will be strictly enforced. If your attire is not turning heads, you will be refused entry at the door.
MAINSTAGE SHOWS @ 11:30pm, 12:30am , 1:30am
AGE RESTRICTION: All attendees must be 21+ for entry (valid photo ID required).
Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch at Domino Park
Greg's Trees transformed Domino Park (South 1 St. & River St.) into Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch, which is open now through October 31st from 9am - 9pm daily with events and attractions for the whole family. Expect a massive selection of pumpkins and Halloween decor along with a haystack maze for little ones, pumpkin painting and carving daily, Instagram-able photo opps and activities galore.
Hidden Lane has a Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Coming to the Menu
Hidden Lane (129 E 15th Street) will officially launch a new seasonal cocktail menu beginning on October 17th that includes a can’t miss Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini complete with cinnamon, pumpkin spice and espresso! The specialty seasonal drink will be the first of many autumn inspired cocktails debuting this month. For more information visit, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com
Celebrate Hallo-Whine at Bar Schimmi on Friday 10/28
Get ready for Hallo-Whine at Schimanski’s Bar Schimmi (60 N 11th St) on Friday, October 28th from 10 p.m to 4 a.m! Prepare to spend the evening on your feet jamming to your favorite hip-shaking tunes. Guests will have access to a dazzling dance floor, a full-service bar, and island vibes while listening to special guest performances from DJ Billionaire Pat, DJ Hell Rell, and DJ Chris John. Enjoy the music and ambiance while sipping your fave drinks at the bar or order VIP bottle service for your squad by emailing vip@schimanskinyc.com. And in the main room at Schimanski, TECHNO BKLYN x KLANDEST invite you to get lost in trance with special live performances from Indira Paganotto, Joyhauser and Niia Guerra. Make the night monumental and order VIP bottle service by emailing vip@schimanskinyc.com.
Get tickets online by visiting, seetickets.us/hallowhine or https://schimanskinyc.com.
Enjoy Frightening Fun at Slate's Nightmare On 21st Street Party on Friday 10/28
Never sleep again! Get your costumes ready for an epic Halloween soiree at Slate (54 West 21st St) on Friday, October 28th at 8:00 PM to October 29th at 4:00 AM, inspired by one of the greatest horror films of all time, Nightmare on Elm Street! To kick off the Halloween festivities, Slate will host two floors of epic music throughout the night including DJ Fotsbeats upstairs and DJ Kaution downstairs! Celebrate all night while enjoying the chic décor, sipping on your favorite drinks and letting loose on the spacious premier lounge dancefloors.
To purchase tickets or reserve VIP packages visit, https://slate.ticketsauce.com/e/halloween-weekend-slate-friday-10-28
Pickle: Support by Firpo: presented by The Somethings: Halloween Weekend on Friday 10/28
Kick-off your Halloween weekend with a sprinkle of art, fantasy and gnomes at The Somethings party at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Friday, October 28th! The Somethings will offer a night filled with NFTs, magic and futuristic art. Surrender to a world of goblets, glowing orbs and floating islands! Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, https://www.halloweenweekend.com
Zombies on the Loose at Haven Rooftop
Haven Rooftop above the Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in Midtown will host Zombies On The Loose on Saturday, October 29th with food and drink specials and a costume contest. More information can be found by visiting, https://havenrooftop.com/
Party with Jessie’s Girl at Stranger Hallow-Things at City Winery NYC on Saturday 10/29
Celebrate Halloween Weekend with some Sci Fi, spooky and costumed fun at a Stranger Hallow-Things party at City Winery (25 11th Avenue) on Saturday, October 29th beginning at 11pm. Fun Music Presents will host this otherworldly evening devoted to the '80s tunes that were popularized all over again thanks to the hit series Stranger Things! Dance to live cover music from the band Jessie’s Girl beginning at the stroke of midnight. Before and after the concert, guest DJ Stef Nava will spin a mix of today's top 40 songs and anthems from the 1980s and beyond to allow every partygoer to unleash their inner Eleven and get turned upside down!
Tickets can be purchased by visiting: https://www.funmusicpresents.com
Attend Haunting on the UWS at e’s BAR on Saturday 10/29
Rock out on Saturday, October 29th during Haunting on the UWS at e’s BAR (511 Amsterdam Ave)! The special Karaoke party will include a costume contest where the best dressed will win a $100 bar tab. A live special guest DJ will spin tunes all night and there’s no cover fee! Chow down on elevated bar food classics, sip from their massive beer and cocktail list, play fun tabletop games, and sing alongside lively crowds. Doors will open at 8:00pm.
Moojo: Support by Forest Down Under: Halloween Weekend on Saturday 10/29
Grab your spot at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.), which will be decked out in decor exemplifying the Seven Deadly Sins to catch DJ Moojo live on Saturday, October 29th for a Halloween Weekend blowout. Listen to a live set from DJ Moojo who has been touring the globe since his musical debut at the age of 14 and is the founder of the independent label Calamar Records. Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting,
Daintree Hosts A View to Kill Rooftop Halloween Party on Saturday 10/29
Daintree (25 W 38th St.) is hosting A View to Kill, a rooftop soiree in the sky atop Hotel Hendrick’s to celebrate Halloween on Saturday, October 29th at 10:00 p.m! Add a little glitz and glamour to your haunted weekend by enjoying Daintree’s one-of-a-kind view of NYC’s skyline, carefully curated Fall cocktails and music from Guest DJ throughout the evening. Treat yourself to small plates inspired by Aussie-Asian cuisine fusion like Chicken Salt and Seaweed Popcorn, Caviar and Chips and tempting plates of Oyster and a drink reimagine New York classics, and distinct Australian wines. VIP packages and tickets, starting at $15 for GA, can be purchased by visiting, https://krispi.ticketsauce.com/e/daintree1029.
Enjoy Good Vibrations: Halloween at Schimanski on Saturday 10/29
Lighten up Halloween weekend with Good Vibrations: Halloween, a high-energy costume party at Schimanski (54 N. 11th St) on Saturday, October, 29th from 10 p.m to 4 a.m!
Tear up the dance floor to the greatest Dancehall, Reggae, Afrobeats, and Hip Hop hits while wearing your best costume and indulge at the full-service bar throughout the night! Special hosts Wallay, Boye, Rahilou, and Mr. Shawtyme will keep the entertainment moving along and the fun coming into the next morning. Attendees can dance all night to live music from SB Sounds, Sydney Love, Citizen B, Spindoll, and AQ. One lucky party-goer will have the chance to win a $500 cash prize for the best costume. RSVP online by visiting, seetickets.us/goodhalloween
Slate Hosts a Forbidden Palace Halloween Party on Saturday 10/29
This Halloween, uncover the secrets of the Forbidden Palace at Slate (54 W. 21st St.) with a 1-hour vodka bar from 8pm - 9pm and a live DJ performance. A premier lounge with a sprawling space, Slate beckons you to come beyond velvet curtains to join a live DJ dance party with New York’s beautiful creatures. Indulge and choose one of Slate’s VIP table packages for bottle service and other amenities. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets for this event begin at $20 and can be purchased by visiting, https://slate.ticketsauce.com/e/halloween-party-slate-saturday-10-29
Sapphire 60 Hosts Nick Cannon’s Wild Halloween N Treats Out Sunday Sins Party on 10/30
Get spooky with American television host, actor, rapper, and comedian Nick Cannon live at Sapphire 60 (333 E 60th St) on Sunday, October 30th for Nick Cannon’s Wild Halloween N Treats Out Party. The special Sunday Sins event will be full of seasonal fun and entertainment from Nick, known for The Nick Cannon Show, Wild 'n Out, America's Got Talent, Lip Sync Battle Shorties, and The Masked Singer. Purchase VIP bottle packages and enjoy the entertainment including Sapphire's most talented dancers. Tickets and Bottle packages can be reserved by visiting, http://nysapphire.com.
Find more event information at https://www.sinsny.com
Monolink Presented by Forest Down Under & Firpo: Halloween Weekend on 10/30
Surrender to the enchanted tunes of Electronic and Dance musician DJ Firpo during an exclusive performance at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Sunday, October 30th! Lose yourself to the rhythm of hit songs and take in the exhilarating air of pre-Halloween anticipation.
Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, https://www.sevenrooms.com/events/somewherenowhere.
The Villains’ Ball (Halloween Night) with Rick Wonder: Best Costume Wins $1000 Cash
Get your 'ghouls' together for The Villains’ Ball at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Monday, October 31st! Give into your darkest desires and dress as your favorite villain. Sip on cocktails and hit the dance floor to dance to tracks from Rick Wonder during the special evening where one lucky guest will take home a $1000 cash prize for best costume. Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, www.halloweenweekend.com
Nebula Hosts Costume Couture on Halloween Night 10/31
Nebula (135 W. 41st St) is celebrating Halloween night with an over the top Costume Couture Party hosted by La La and Lenny S. on Monday, October 31st. The all-nighter, which kicks off at 10pm is sponsored by RHUDE and Lobos 1707. Guests wearing their best Halloween costumes can take to the dancefloor while Dj Gigi Rosa, DJ Boof and First Choice spin tunes all night. RSVP via email to NYCostumeCouture@gmail.com
Best Places for Happy Hour NYC
As workers reluctantly return to their workplaces and inflation continues to drive up day-to-day living expenses for city dwellers, happy hours are making a comeback in New York City.
As workers reluctantly return to their workplaces and inflation continues to drive up day-to-day living expenses for city dwellers, happy hours are making a comeback in New York City.
Having too many choices might be problematic. The pubs and restaurants in New York City are some of the greatest in the world, and practically all of them feature happy hour specials. So, how are you going to pick a place to go out for a drink after work?
Our list of the greatest happy hours in the city is here to help you find a new favorite way to occupy the time between work and dinnertime. There are a variety of ways to get drunk on a budget in New York City, from local dives to trendy cocktail lounges.
Haven Rooftop above The Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in Midtown is the perfect happy hour escape. Haven offers $6 select beers, $9 glasses of wine and champagne, and $10 margaritas and Aperol Spritzes from 4:30pm - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday. For more information, visit http://www.havenrooftop.com/
Haven Rooftop
Kumi (120 W 57th St) has a new Happy Hour offered at their stunning bar from Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm - 7pm. Guests can enjoy special half-off pricing on small plates like Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Shishito Peppers, Edamame and BBQ Bao Buns. Cool down with $5 draft beers and sip on select wines for $9. For more info visit, https://www.kumirestaurant.com.
Kumi
Wonderland (20 W 20th St), the city's newest adult nightlife destination, has Happy Hour offered Monday through Thursday from 7pm - 9pm where guests can score half-priced drinks and bottles and no cover charge. Guests will also be treated to live entertainment and performances throughout the night! For more information visit, https://nycwonderland.com
Wonderland
Enjoy happy hour at every Clinton Hall! All locations offer $6 drafts, $8 well drinks, wine, and select cocktails as well as deals on bar snacks. Their flagship FiDi location (90 Washington St.) has an expansive indoor and outdoor seating area to enjoy happy hour from 3pm - 6pm, Monday - Friday along with their expansive W. 36th Street locale. Clinton Hall’s Williamsburg (247 Metropolitan Ave.) and E. 51st Street locations offer happy hour Monday - Friday from 3pm - 7pm and the Bronx (601 E. 189th St.) location offers happy hour from Monday - Friday from open, till 7pm. For more information, visit https://clintonhallny.com/
Clinton Hall
Slate (54 W. 21st St.) in the heart of Chelsea, opens at 4pm, Monday-Thursday and has a happy hour till 8pm with $5 Bud Light, $6 Well Drinks, $8 House Wine and $9 House Margaritas and House Martinis. Enjoy a drink while playing ping pong, pool, giant jenga or the world’s largest Pac Man. For more information, visit https://slate-ny.com/
Slate
Hidden Lane (129 E. 15th St.) has you covered if you're workin' 9am - 5pm, with a happy hour menu from 5pm - 8pm, Monday to Friday. Grab drinks with friends and coworkers with specially priced cocktails including $5 Bud Lights, Narragansetts and well shots, and $8 Margaritas, Spicy Margaritas as well as a Beer & Shot combo for $8. Guests can also enjoy $2 off all draft beers as well as $2 off mixed drinks and cocktails. More information can be found by visiting, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com
Hidden Lane
Bar Marseille (190 Beach 69th St) in the Rockaways includes $10 cocktails, $5 beers, and $8 house wines from 3pm to 7pm daily. Along with drinks, added can’t miss specials include $1 oysters all day. The seaside restaurant, which has airy indoor dining and a stunning outdoor patio and a rooftop bar, and pays tribute to Provençal cuisine paired with a robust wine and cocktail list. For more information, visit https://www.barmarseille.com
Bar Marseille
Bongos (85 Orchard Street) (right in the heart of Dimes Square) This trendy, noir-inspired bistro offers unexpected twists on classic cocktails (like a Chamomile Martini and a full menu of house-made negronis) alongside elevated bites like charbroiled oysters and crispy artichokes – perfect for kicking off the night. Be sure to come back once you’re done reveling for a nightcap (as dinner is served until late!). Bongos is all about creating a grown-up dinner party atmosphere, with rich conversation and memorable experiences. Their outdoor seating area is the perfect place to take in the whirlwind of happenings on Orchard Street while you snack and sip.
Photo by Bongos
Canary Club (303 Broome Street) For a night of jazz, modern American bites, and elevated cocktails, stop in at Canary Club—the vibrant and chic music & supper club in the heart of the Lower East Side. Starting in August, Canary Club will be offering a list of 100 happy hour cocktails for $10 each (Monday-Friday, 5-7 pm). Additionally, on Thursdays from 5 pm-close, martinis are 2-for-1 all evening long! Enjoy New Orleans-inspired cocktails and sharable small plates in Canary Club’s stylish club lounge, dining room, or outdoor patio.
Photo by Canary Club
Grey Lady (77 Delancey Street) For those who are staying in the city but still craving a New England escape, look no further than Grey Lady, the unpretentious farm-to-table restaurant and late-night bar inspired by the casual beach towns of Nantucket. Stop in for happy hour (Sunday-Friday, 4-6 pm) and grab $1 fresh oysters and $10 Nantucket-inspired cocktails. Additionally, on Wednesday evenings (4 pm-close), enjoy half-off on bottles of wine, paired with sharable seafood plates like Fried Calamari or Crab & Artichoke Dip.
Photo by Grey Lady
Sereneco (113 Franklin St) Sereneco has just expanded their happy hour to Tuesdays—Saturdays from 4:00–7:00pm. Take advantage of Summer Fridays and sip on $10 summery spritzes (more on those below), $10 select cocktails, $5 beer, $6 cider, and $10 glasses of red, white, rosé, and orange wines.
Sereneco
Aunt Bernie's Bar and Jardin (513 3rd Ave) Aunt Bernie’s offers $13 wine flights and many more options for people in the Murray Hill area.
TOP DECEMBER EVENTS
HOLIDAY HOUSE NYC FALL 2021
‘COMING TOGETHER’ TABLETOP EVENT
What: Holiday House NYC is returning to New York City for a LIVE event, which will showcase their beloved design industry members and talented interior designers as they come together to raise critical funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).
A VIP press preview will be held from 5:00pm – 6:00pm prior to the main event to allow the media exclusive access to the designers and conduct interviews with Holiday House founder Iris Dankner.
Who: The event is co-chaired by Amy Lau, Campion Platt, Jean Shafiroff and Andrea Stark.
Over a dozen leading designers will each design their own chic tabletops to showcase cutting edge décor and lifestyle concepts to be viewed by the design industry, Holiday House’s loyal patrons and the affluent NYC community. Designers will include Austin Gray Design Group, Badilla Painters x Rio Hamilton, Beth Donner and Andrea Correale, Eric Haydel, Evan Mason Designs, Kim Seybert, Leeann Lavin, Michele Safra, Mottahedeh, Purvi Padia Design, Sandy Berman, Unlimited Earth Care and Vanessa Deleon Associates. The event will also include interactive experiences including a cocktail making class.
When: Opening Night Preview: December 8, 2021
6pm – 9pm
General Admission: December 9, 2021
11am – 8pm
December 10, 2021
11am -5pm
(Times of events will be announced at a later date)
Where: The Elizabeth Taylor Mansion
10 West 56th Street
New York, NY 10019
Holiday House invites the community to ‘Come Together’ for an evening of beautiful tabletop designs with hors d’oeuvres by Elegant Affairs in celebration of being able to reunite after spending a year apart.
Sponsors for the event include Jiun Ho x Cambria, 41 Madison x Waterford, Top Hat Home Services, The Melissa Cohn Group, FJ Hakimian, Sebastian Capital and Stark. Media Partners include Modern Luxury Manhattan and Hamptons Real Estate Showcase.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF). To date, Holiday House has raised almost two million dollars for breast cancer research.
Tickets for the opening night preview are priced at $250 and general admission are priced at $50. Tickets can be purchased here.
The annual exhibition and sale of one-of-a-kind contemporary jewelry returns to New York's Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) for its twenty-first edition.
MAD About Jewelry is open to the public with free admission, December 7 through 11, showcasin more than 40 emerging and acclaimed US-based jewelry artists, including Pamela Love, Of Rare Origin, MoAnA Luu, and Tiffany Vanderhoop.
For collectors, connoisseurs, fashionistas, and all who share an interest in the interplay of art and design, MAD About Jewelry provides an unparalleled opportunity to converse with and acquire pieces from some of the most innovative creators in the field in support of the Museum’s exhibitions and educational programs.
3. Feliz Cocteleria Holiday Pop-Up
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The Garret Bars’ immersive holiday pop-up, Feliz Coctelería, is back and more festive than ever!
The uber-popular, seasonal pop-up (which first launched in 2020) returned to The Garret Coctelería (349 Broome Street) on 11/26. Just in time for the holidays, Feliz Coctelería offers much-needed respite and warming drinks. We’d love for you to keep the exciting news in mind for any December openings coverage or holiday-themed guides.
With Latin-inspired holiday decor, twinkling lights, eclectic ornaments, and colorful textiles, Feliz Cocteleria is a celebration of Navidad and the holiday spirit - channeling the merriment of the festive season. Key design elements include:
Large palm trees adorned with Christmas lights will be scattered throughout the pop-up
Traditional snowflake paper chains will be decoratively strung from the ceiling
Christmas trees will line the walls and restaurant booths
Gift-wrapped tables where guests can enjoy their festive libations
Hanukkah-inspired blue and silver adornments & floating dreidels, menorahs and more will offer an all-encompassing holiday experience
A lifesize floating sleigh with a mariachi band to delight restaurant-goers
And the return of the holiday llamas!
Feliz Cocteleria’s limited-edition holiday drinks are served in delightfully seasonal glassware (think: snowmen, Santas, and other festive trinkets), curated by Beverage Director Max Stampa-Brown. The pop-up’s holiday cocteles combine vibrant Latin American flavors with holiday season nostalgia.
A few fun beverage highlights include:
Epazote Hot Toddy - Epazote Hot Tea, Ginger, Spiced Apple Cider, Lemon, Guajillo-infused Bourbon
Rocco’s Hot Cocoa - Golden Rice Milk Latte, Powdered Chipotle Powder Blend, Chocolate, Mezcal, Green Chartreuse Marshmallow
A Lump of Coal - Blackberry, Mint, Mango Butter, Black Sesame, Tequila, Lime, Egg White, Chilean Red Wine
Rose & Lenny - Babka infused Slivovitz, Cream of Coconut, Clove & Cardamom, Turmeric, Lime
Fig Tree in Nolita - Mexican Gin, Fig, Ginger, Cacao Nib Sweet Vermouth, Lemon
TOP OCTOBER EVENTS
The Bacon and Beer Classic will head to The Lot (at 107 Morgan Street) in Jersey City on October 9th. The event is ditching sample sizes this year and going straight to full course meals with decadent dishes like Pork Belly Banh Mi and Chocolate Bacon Cupcakes on the menu.
That's in addition to 50+ craft beers to sample to toast and celebrate Oktoberfest with.
2. New York Comic Con 2021
Finally back after the postponement of the 2020 NYCC due to COVID. The New York Comic Con is an annual New York City fan convention dedicated to comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, and television.
On Tuesday, October 19, 2021, the enCourage Kids Foundation will host Serving Up Smiles, a premier tasting event that will include decadent plates from the hottest chefs and top named restaurants in NYC, VIP Speakeasy Lounge presented by Go Tab featuring Shinju Japanese Whiskey, world-class wines, cocktails, and incredible auction items at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. Red Carpet & VIP Reception 6:00pm-7:00pm and doors 7:00pm-9:30pm.
Taste of the Seaport returns to the Seaport for the 11th year of food, fun, and fundraising. Sponsored by The Howard Hughes Corporation, Downtown’s premier food festival brings together over 30 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan and showcases an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers, and family friendly activities, making it an enjoyable day out for children and adults alike. The annual event benefits the arts and enrichment programs at Public School 397 (The Spruce Street School) and Public School 343 (The Peck Slip School). This year’s event will take place on Saturday, October 16th from 12 p.m.–3 p.m. at Piers 16 and 17.
Ticket packs will be available for purchase at www.tasteoftheseaport.org for $45 for 5 tastes. Guests may also purchase tickets on the day of the festival for $50. VIP tables will also be available for an additional fee, which will provide access to an exclusive seating area complete with table service and complimentary beer, wine and soda.
For more information, please visit www.tasteoftheseaport.org
Planning a party of your own this year or next? The 9th Annual Event Planner Expo presented by EMRG Media returns from October 12th to the 14th.
The expo will have a star-studded lineup of speakers including Shark Tank star and Celebrity Event Planner Colin Cowie. Events will take place at the Metropolitan Pavilion, SPIN and Nebula Nightclub.
Tickets, which begin at $69, can be purchased by visiting: www.TheEventPlannerExpo2021.com
Off Broadway actor and producer Matt de Rogatis has announced that his non profit theater organization, Ruth Stage, has formed a partnership with the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. The two charities have been informally working together since last May on a variety of projects but have only recently finalized a series of fundraising events through early 2022.
As part of their syndicate, an exclusive gala entitled Theater Saves Lives: An Evening of Hope, will be held at 7pm on Tuesday, October the 26th, 2021. The benefit will be held at Cubico in Soho, New York City located at 433 Broadway in “The Cellar” space. This exclusive event is limited to 100 guests and tickets are available on tier levels ranging from $300 to $800 for individuals and $500 to $1500 for couples.
Attendees can expect a full service open bar with specialty cocktails, a high end, southern inspired pass around dinner, dessert, live music, guest speakers from the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and a charity auction featuring fine art, sports memorabilia and getaway vacation packages. Proceeds will benefit the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and Ruth Stage.
To purchase tickets to Theater Saves Lives: An Evening of Hope, visit www.ruthstage.org or www.theatersaveslives.eventbrite.com.
7. EXXXOTICA 2021
The largest event in the USA dedicated to love and sex is back! Beginning Oct 22, the three-day run at Edison NJ.
Exxxotica Expo is an annual three-day adult-themed event produced by 3XEvents. Billed as a "Celebration of Sexy", Exxxotica Expo shows are held in several US cities, which currently include Edison, New Jersey, Chicago, Miami and Portland, Oregon.
For more information on stars and schedules please visit https://exxxoticaexpo.com/
Join us for a Swing Dinner Dance on Thursday, October 21st, 2021
7.00PM – Midnight
Metropolitan Club
Purchase Your Tickets
9. Halloween Parties
Get tickets to see the long-awaited New York City return of Tiësto, who will kick off Halloween weekend with a FEARHOUSE NYC headlining show at The New York Expo Center (1110 Oak Point Ave.) in the Bronx on Friday, October 29th. The Chainsmokers will headline a Halloween weekend rave the following night with Surf Mesa, Ship Wrek and Zack Bia on Saturday, October 30th. Tickets are on sale now at www.degpresents.com
10. Cocteleria de los Muertos - Halloween Pop-up
Coctelería de los Muertos – from Den Hospitality (the team behind Bandits and the Garret bars) which just launched 10/5 at The Garret Coctelería (349 Broome Street). With custom-built altars honoring artistic icons we’ve lost (think: Marilyn Monroe, The Notorious B.I.G., Jimi Hendrix, Amy Winehouse, and more), over 5,000 feet of marigold flowers, an abundance of candles, string lights, and bright blankets to keep outdoor diners warm, this is the ultimate set-up for spooky season.
You can view the full menu here.
11. Loulou Reopening
@Floratorium
Loulou (176 8th Avenue) in Chelsea will reopen on Tuesday, October 12th following an arson attack in August. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, this fabulous French Bistro and Speakeasy will debut a beautifully rebuilt exterior with fall florals from Floratorium. Signature menu items from Executive Chef Jarett Brodie include the Loulou Burger made with grass-fed beef, cheddar and caramelized onions, Duck Leg Confit with apple rosemary puree and gala chutney and Steak Frites featuring a 7oz skirt steak and béarnaise. Pair you lunch, brunch or dinner with a perfectly crafted cocktail and you’ll start your fall right.
11. Slice Out Hunger
Fornino at Brooklyn Bridge Park location is supporting Slice Out Hunger on Sunday, October 17th from 12pm - 4:30pm with an outdoor pizza party featuring some of the NYC area’s top pizza makers. Early bird tickets are $35, which grants you access to Fornino’s pizza patio at Pier 6 for a 90-minute session with all the pizza you can imagine complemented by a cash bar for beer and wine. 100% of proceeds will support local hunger relief. Tickets can be purchased by visiting, sliceouthunger.org.
Friends of The Budapest Festival Orchestra Gala
Joanna Fisher, Mark Morris, Colin Fowler, Ivan Fischer, Credit John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Maestro Iván Fischer led The Budapest Festival Orchestra in a thrilling all-Dvořák program at David Geffen Hall Sunday including an encore of Braham’s Hungarian Dance No. 5. Maestro Fischer announced from his podium, “the arrangement includes some of the original folk melody", which was sung by the members of the Orchestra. It was a memorable performance punctuated by multiple standing ovations. Daisy Soros, chairman emeritus of the Friends of The Budapest Festival Orchestra, sat on an aisle in the front row and clearly enjoyed herself. The New York Times wrote, “Always a highlight of any season, the visit of this exceptional orchestra and its provocative music director, Ivan Fischer.”
A benefit dinner followed chaired by Ambassador Nancy Brinker, Susan Gutfreund, Sylvia Hemingway and Friends of The Budapest Festival Orchestra. Maestro Fisher was greeted following the concert by admirers including Steven Van Zandt before sitting at a table that included Ellen Burstyn, Noreen and Ken Buckfire, Joan Hardy Clark, Andre Fratto, Joanna Fisher, Colin Fowler, Mark Morris, and Barbara and Donald Tober (who were honored with Mark Morris last year as Living Landmarks).
Maureen Van Zandt, Steven Van Zandt, Layla Diba, Credit John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Peter Thomas Roth, Mary McFadden, Credit John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Also there were gala committee members Ambassador and Mrs. Donald Blinken, Beth Jacobs, Heidi Lee Komaromi, Barbara Rogoff, Mr. and Mrs. David M. Tobey, and Stephanie Stokes (the host of a small dinner for the Maestro the evening before at her home). Other guests included board members Andrew Komaromi, Aaron Feinstein, and Peter Thomas Roth, as well as Edgar Batista, Layla Diba, Sedi and Maximo Flugelman, Margo Langenberg, Jean Shafiroff, Judy Francis Zankel, and Gioia Zwack.
During dinner Maestro Fischer spoke movingly about the recent devastating coronavirus “We come to New York often. It feels like home and you are our real friends. We love to be here. We’ve a tour planned for many cities in China planned soon so please if you can find a vaccine. We would hate to cancel our trip…. About the orchestra singing tonight. Why does my orchestra sing on stage? We want to set an example, to overcome the inherent fear of singing out loud. Everyone should be singing more. Mothers to their children, all of us. This morning I conducted another concert, a very special one, for children on the Autism spectrum. Thanks to Lincoln Center and The Friends of the Budapest Festival Orchestra. 150 children and their families came. That was all the room could hold. There was a waiting list twice that length. We try and do a concert like this everywhere we go. Always we do this in New York. It’s important. August 1st, 3rd, and 4th, we return to New York with an opera, Verdi’s Falstaff. There the orchestra is integrated with the singers right on stage and part of the action. It’s part of the Mostly Mozart Festival so please don’t go anywhere else in August.”
Credit John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Stephen Benko, Chairman of the Friends of the Budapest Festival Orchestra, thanked the board and chairs with a special recognition for, “my old friend Philip Reeker. We met when he was a young Foreign Service Officer in Budapest. Philip is now the U.S. State Department’s Acting Assistant Secretary of European and Eurasian Affairs. He continues to stand up for democratic issues in Hungary as well as our national’s best export, the Budapest Festival Orchestra.“ Reeker dined between former Hungarian Ambassadors Nancy Brinker and Donald Blinken
During dinner Mary McFadden talked about visiting Maestro Fischer’s home in Budapest and her recent trip up the Nile with her daughter, Justine. Maestro Fischer suggested Joanna Fisher “add a “c’ to her last name”. Saying good night the proud Hungarian Susan Gutfreund offered “as we say in Hungarian, this evening was truly elbűvölő --- charming!”
C-CAP 30th Anniversary Benefit
On Tuesday, February 25th, C-CAP hosted its 30TH Anniversary Benefit at Pier Sixty - Chelsea Piers, New York City honoring two industry icons; Richard Grausman (founder C-CAP/Chef/Author and Sarabeth Levine (world-renowned Baker/Author/Restaurateur).
Janice Huff, (NBC Chief Meteorologist) emceed the evening and shared the mic with Tim Zagat (Co-Founder Zagat), Marcus Samuelsson (C-CAP Board Chair/Chef/Restaurateur/TV Personality) and Carlton McCoy (President & CEO Heitz Cellar) who shared the important work and success stories of C-CAP and the honorees. Red Carpet guests included Justin Tuck (2x Super Bowl Champion), Howard Cross (NY Giants Super Bowl Champion), Charles Smith (NBA Veteran), Judge Patricia DiMango (CBS Hot Bench), Ryan Field (ABC Sports Anchor) and Dee-Morris (Actor/Singer/Songwriter Gotham (FOX), Shades of Blue (NBC), to name a few.
Photos by C-Cap
“I want to thank everybody who joined us in supporting our special C-CAP 30th Anniversary Benefit. I’m gratified to be recognized by my peers and honored for my work with C-CAP. I look forward to many more successful years and continuing to work with the chefs and students who are my extended family,” Richard Grausman, C-CAP Founder & Chair Emeritus.
“It is such an honor to work with the C-CAP students and Richard throughout the years. It was a special night seeing all the guests, students, alums and celebrities who came out to join us in our celebration. I’m beyond grateful for this recognition and I look forward to many more years of supporting the C-CAP students and alum,” said Sarabeth Levine, World-renowned Baker/Author/Chef.
Photos by C-Cap
“It was an exciting night honoring Richard Grausman and Sarabeth Levine for their incredible impact on the industry and important work with C-CAP. They inspire C-CAP students, alumni and all of us with their dedication and passion. A special thank you to all who came out to support the C-CAP 30th Anniversary Benefit,” said Marcus Samuelsson, Chef, Author and Restaurateur.
“This was the best C-CAP tasting benefit in 30 years that broke all records raising over 1.2 million. We had over a thousand guests and great food by 35 of the top restaurants in New York City. The room was filled with buzzing with energy all night. Best of all, the night celebrated a wonderful cause helping underserved high-school students gain careers in the food service industry, said Tim Zagat, founder Zagat.
Guests enjoyed the finest signature dishes by NYC’s hottest chefs along with world-class wines by Heitz Cellar, cocktails and specialty Vodka drinks by Tito’s top mixologists. Talented C-CAP students and alumni assisted with the grand tasting showing off their culinary skills alongside the chefs. Guests participated in an exciting auction with once-in-a-lifetime culinary, culture and travel packages. The night celebrated the finest in the industry and guests had a once in a lifetime opportunity to savor the exquisite food tastes by the “hard to get into” restaurants in one night. The night raised over 1.2 million and will benefit C-CAP’s career readiness programs.
Photos by C-Cap
Participating restaurants and chefs included: Abigail Kirsch (Matthew Tiscornia), Almond (Jason Weiner, Alex Nieto), Aretsky’s Patroon (Ken Aretsky, Aaron Fitterman), Bâtard Tribeca (Markus Glocker), Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse (Admir Alibasic), Bouley at Home (David Bouley), Café Boulud (Jerrod Zifchak), Casa Nomad (Yvan Lemoine), Cosme (Evelyn Velazquez, Isabel Coss), Cuisine Solutions (Bruno Bertin), Estiatorio Milos (Costas Spiliadis), Four Seasons Hotel (John Johnson), Gramercy Tavern (Miroslav Uskokovic), Hudson Yards Grill (Michael Lomonaco, Wayne Harley Brachman, Daniel Rutledge), Indian Accent (Manish Mehrotra), JAMS (Jonathan Waxman), Le Bernardin (Eric Ripert, Thomas Raquel), Locanda Verde (Deborah Racicot) (Loi Estiatorio (Maria Loi), The Loyal (John Fraser), Michael's (Michael McCarty, Kyung Up Lim), Nobu 57 (Matt Hoyle), Park Avenue Winter (Zene Flinn), Perrine at the Pierre (Ashfer Biju), Portale (Alfred Portale), Porter House New York (Michael Lomonaco, Wayne Harley Brachman, Daniel Rutledge), Quality Eats (Craig Koketsu), Decoy/ Red Farm (Eddie Schoenfeld, Joe Ng), Red Rooster (Marcus Samuelsson), Sarabeth's (Sarabeth Levine), Shake Shack, Storico (James Miller), TabeTomo (Tomotsugu Kubo), Untitled (Evan Tessler) and Vaucluse (Michael White, Jared Gadbaw).
About C-CAP
C-CAP(Careers Through Culinary Arts Program) is a national nonprofit co-chaired by chef, author and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson, and founded by culinary educator Richard Grausman, provides underserved youth with educational and career opportunities through the culinary arts. It is a curriculum enrichment program linking public high school culinary teachers and their students to the foodservice industry. C-CAP’s various programs work together to help prepare students for college and careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry. https://ccapinc.org #CCAPinc #CCAPBenefit #CCAP30
TOP MARCH NYC EVENTS
Young Patrons believe the performing arts can open your hearts and minds. They formed the Young Patrons group to bring together arts-oriented New Yorkers from diverse backgrounds with mixed artistic interests who strive to make arts and culture a more intentional part of their lives.
2. Winter Ball with School of American Ballet
The event kicks off with cocktails at the majestic David H. Koch Theater, followed by dinner and dancing on the Promenade, which is transformed into a breathtakingly beautiful dining room. SAB’s students make Winter Ball an evening you will always remember with their performance of a piece created for the event by an up-and-coming choreographer. Dessert and dancing at the after-party, hosted by SAB’s Young Patrons, keeps the dance floor packed late into the evening.Your participation will make every aspect of SAB’s ballet training program possible — providing scholarships for our students while supporting our world-renowned faculty, maintaining our studios, and offering vital student programs beyond the classroom.Just interested in the Afterparty? Learn More and buy tickets.
3. SCOPE New York 2020
The 20th edition of SCOPE New York returns to its Chelsea location at Metropolitan Pavilion. Known for presenting groundbreaking contemporary work, SCOPE New York will welcome 60 international exhibitors at its centrally-located venue.
The first fair to run concurrent with The Armory Show, SCOPE New York’s spirit of innovation has consistently forged the way for emerging artists and galleries. Attuned to nuances in the market and itself an influential force in the cultural sphere, SCOPE continues to usher in a new vision of the contemporary art fair.
SCOPE New York opens on Thursday, March 5, 2020, with the Platinum First View and VIP & Press Preview, and will run through Sunday, March 8, 2020.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scope-new-york-2020-tickets-88153197587?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
The Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) presents the Third Annual Memories Matter Gala.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
Doors Open 6:30pm
Dinner to follow
Pier 60
Chelsea Piers
New York City, NY
6. St Jude Gold Gala
Join us for the ninth annual St. Jude Gold Gala: An Evening for St. Jude in New York City, New York.
As a guest at this event, you'll enjoy an evening of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and dancing, along with a special silent auction and raffle.
Since its inaugural year in 2012, the Gold Gala has fundraised $1 million for the children of St. Jude.
https://www.stjude.org/get-involved/find-an-event/dinners-and-galas/gold-gala.html
oqLiq's Street Style Collection Takes the Runway for FW2020
OqLiq, a mens clothing brand from Taiwan, kicked off NYFW2020 on Thursday, February 6th, at the revered Spring Studios. They debuted their new street style collection, Omni Direction. Admiring guests were elated to see the versatility the line presented, enabling the coats to be worn in a variety of settings. It offered a dynamic look accompanied by new-tech materials.
The new line graced fashion addicts with unique urban outdoor wear such as trench coats and short jackets These outerwear pieces were lined with details that made each clothing piece all the more desirable: curved zippers, hidden buttons, bold hemlines, and an array of colors that the products came in. Also showcased were multiple vests: some sleek and simple with singing belts, some with ribbon detailing and others oversized with exterior pockets.
Whether the concrete jungle, or the jungle itself confronts you with showers or sunshine, “Omni Direction” is best suited to protect you while ensuring your style won't diminish. Coats and pants boast geometrical patchwork and a thoroughly thought out placement of pockets. While an array of colors were displayed amongst the collection they aired on the darker side: navy, olive, grey, charcoal, taupe and black. Complementing these warm colors were layers of contrasting colors. Fabrics and textiles used throughout the collection were polartec, nylon, poly and cotton. Every model was fashionably clothed by the items in the line. Moreover, they were given edgy hair and makeup by Romana’s Beauty team which illuminated the artistic essence the collection portrayed.
Although oqLiq is more traditionally a menswear brand, it debuted one of the looks on a woman taking a unisex approach. This amplified the gender neutrality that we are presently seeing in the fashion industry. Notable guests of the brands first New York show included Julian Talley (New York Giants player) Joshua Whittaker (VH1 Black Ink cast member) and Francesca Curran (Orange is the New Black).
Photos provided by oqLiq
New York Fashion Week Powered by Art Hearts Fashion
From February th toFebruary 9th, 2020, Art Hearts Fashion hosted the New York Fashion Week at the Angel Orensanz Foundation, including a variety of outstanding designers and artists, as well as marvelous guests.
The 2020 New York Fashion Week powered by Art Hearts Fashion started on Friday 6, when the doors opened at 6pm for a fashion and art exhibition. The opening night and the following three days were filled with unique fashion runway shows and breaks to enjoy the art exhibitions and delicious cocktails.
The venue of this year's Art Hearts Fashion shows was the Angel Orensanz Foundation in Bowery, Manhattan, which contributed an exclusive atmosphere to the events. With the ambience of an old majestic church, the location framed the runway and art shows perfectly.
Participating designers included Glaudi, Raul Penaranda, Willet Designs, Grayling Pernell Merlin Castell, as well as Alexandra Popescu-York and Willfredo Gerardo.
The great variety of designers is another factor that devotes to the exceptional experience of the Art Hearts Fashion Week in New York.
After the shows, guests had the chance to meet the models and designers while taking pictures for a personal memory or asking questions about the newest collections.
Art Hearts Fashion is a platform for designers and artists, that gives them the possibility to showcase their collections in a contemporary fashion week surrounding. The national platform helds events from coast to coast in New York, Miami, Los Angeles and beyond.
Since it was founded in 2011, Art Hearts Fashion has established into a leading platform in the art & fashion community.
Wine & Spirits Magazine's Top 100 Symposium
The Wine and Spirits Magazine put together an incredible Symposium that showcased the top 100 wineries from around the world. Attendees were able to try the best of the best while enjoying incredible cuisine. We explored the venue, trying absolutely everything that was offered to us.
One of our top picks from the festival was a 2017 Vintage Straw Wine from Mullineux Family Wine. Andrea Mullineux and her husband Chris Mullineux established their winery in the Swartland region in 2007. Due to its delicious taste, Mullineux Family Wine quickly became one of South Africa’s most celebrated brands. Andrea is the owner and winemaker, and we were delighted to speak to her about the process of making such an exquisite wine.
If you are unfamiliar with what straw wine is, don’t worry because at first we were too. After speaking to Andrea we discovered that sweet wine is made differently depending on the environment it is grown in. After the grapes are cut they are laid on straw mats where they dry for three weeks. This method is used to concentrate the sugar, the flavor, and the acidity, giving it a complex taste. When the dried out grapes are pressed, it takes twenty four hours to press out the honey like juice from the grapes. It is then put into barrels where the fermentation process is started naturally. Andrea informed us that “the longer and slower the fermentation, the more complex and the more depth the flavor,” which is why she leaves it to ferment for eight to ten months.
We were also drawn to Catena Zapata’s booth because of the intricately designed label. After tasting the delectable Catena Malbec Argentina we spoke to Pablo Piccolo and learned about history behind the new label and about the winery itself. Catena Zapata was one of the first to bring European techniques to Argentina when they founded in 1902. The beautifully illustrated label which was released in 2015, and tells the story of the birth, death, and rebirth of the Malbec. The label starts with an image of Eleanor of Aquitaine, the Queen of France and England. Next to her is a woman representing all of the immigrants who brought the vines from Argentina to the new world. As you continue to turn the bottle you can see Phylloxera, who killed most of the Malbec living there. Then sitting next to her is Bodega Catena Zapata, symbolizing the reemergence of the Malbec.
We loved learning about the history behind the wine! The vineyard is located in Medosa Catena, and it is one of six vineyards in Medosa owned by Catena Zapata. After trying a glass we quickly understood why they are so well known for their wines.
After trying so many incredible wines back to back for hours, we got a little hungry. Luckily several restaurants had booths showcasing their extraordinary dishes. One of our favorites was Junsik’s Bossam. Bossam is pork belly with ssamjang aioli. Jungsik is an incredibly well known Korean restaurant with two Michelin Stars.
Another dish we were salivating over was the Yuzu Cheesecake with Kishu Mandarin from Bâtard. The scrumptious mini cake paired perfectly with a sweet dessert wine. The cake was amazing on it’s own, but the Royal Tokaji 2013 Betsek wine really enhanced the flavor.
The Wine and Spirits Symposium is the perfect event for those in the wine industry, wine enthusiasts, and anyone who just likes to drink and eat. We can’t wait until next year so we can have more of the best wines in existence.
Photos from Wine & Spirits Magazine
TOP FEBRUARY NYC EVENTS
DJ, dancing, casino gaming, raffles, open bar and hors d’oeuvres
🍷 Domaine Christian Moreau Père et Fils
🍷 Olivier Leflaive Frères
🍷 Stéphane Aviron
🍷 Domaine Faiveley
🍷 Château Fuissé
The Friends of the Budapest Festival Orchestra Gala will be held on February 23, 2020 at Lincoln Center's David Geffen Hall. Maestro Iván Fischer will host the all-Dvořák program: Legend; Evening's blessing, from Four Choruses; Slavonic Dance; Violin Concerto, and Symphony No. 8.
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The Bronx Letters Foundation Food for Thought Benefit brings some of New York's best chefs together in one place for an incredibly delicious evening.Our foundation supports the UA Bronx Academy of Letters, a 6 to 12 public school located in the South Bronx, our country's poorest congressional district, which is a mere 3 miles from Manhattan's Upper East Side.By supporting our foundation, you are making a difference in the lives of our scholars. You are embracing the chance to help to break the cycle of poverty one kid at a time. Thanks to generous donors like you we are able to offer our 600 at-risk, high-needs students a challenging, inspiring, college preparatory, safe learning environment with life-changing enrichment opportunities.Join us and be a part of the solution!
6. The DREAM Project’s 8th Annual
What: The DREAM Project’s 8th Annual Benefit and Awards: Sueños 2020
When: Thursday, February 27th, 2020 | Red Carpet: 6:30 PM | Main Event: 7:30 -10:00 PM
Where: The Mezzanine, Wall Street (55 Broadway, New York, NY 10006)
Theme: Celebrating Dominican Independence and the Independent Dominican Woman
Why: To raise the funds used to operate programs, impacting 8,000 youth in more than 27 disadvantaged communities, closing the cycle of poverty in the Dominican Republic.
Co-Hosted by: Kathy Romero, Global Entrepreneur and Celebrity Event Planner, Tony Peralta, contemporary artist and community leader, and Michel Zaleski, DREAM Chair and Founder.
Invited Celebrities: Actor Taye Diggs from Rent, Chef Kelvin, Actress Dasha Polanco, Leslie Grace, Misty Copeland and Anthony Ramos
Available for Interviews: Board Members (Pre-Event) . Contact us for Celebrity availability at the event.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/suenos-2020-tickets-86122973131
Website: www.dominicandream.org
@giselle Screening at Lincoln Center
On January 14, 2020 a screening of @giselle by Joshua Beamish/MOVETHECOMPANY was hosted at The Bruno Walter Auditorium in New York City’s Lincoln Center.
Beamish created a new take on the beloved classic ballet Giselle, where dating apps and social media platforms reinterpret love, sex and relationships.
Joshua Beamish/MOVETHECOMPANY premiered @giselle at the Vancouver Playhouse in September 2019, commissioned by TO Live.
Performance of @giselle by David Cooper
@giselle stars American Ballet Theater’s Catherine Hurlin in the title role of Giselle and Betsy McBride as Bathilde, Pennsylvania Ballet’s Sterling Baca as Hilarion as well as National Ballet of Canada’s Harrison James as Albrecht.
What makes Beamish’s production so unique is the use of motion-captured digital projections and visual effects, that the director applied to reflect the digital world we live in.
"The ballet Giselle is one of the most profound constructions of the classical canon.” said Joshua Beamish, when introducing his show.
Catherine Hurlin and Joshua Beamish
He added: “I want the original work to exist within our production as its own ghost - a ghost from another time. Traditional romance is evaporating. The internet is threatening our ability to value individuals. @giselle shows the evolved hysteria born from unanswered texts, likes, and story views. In today's media saturated environment, is Giselle's descent into "madness" really so shocking? I hope audiences will relate to Giselle's journey and see themselves in the plights, struggles, and joys of the varying characters and their social interactions."
Performance of @giselle by David Cooper
After the screening of @giselle, the performing artists Hurlin, McBride and Baca joined Joshua Beamish on the stage to discuss and share the creative process of @giselle.
Baca emphasized Beamish’s ability to bring the old classic into the present time, by creating a version of Giselle we all know, yet never seen before.
Hurlin, McBride and Baca all agreed on the director’s distinctive characteristic of describing the detailed choreography with his broad vocabulary.
Joshua Beamish, Catherine Hurlin, Betsy McBride and Sterling Baca
The screening of the new interpretation of the ballet classic Giselle wasn’t only a unique chance to get a glimpse of the stunning production, but also to get an insight of the artistic process involved in the new must-see ballet and therefore made a special night for all guests.
Joanna and Brian Fisher underwrote the screening and served as hosts with Ben Rodriguez-Cubenas, Roger Kluge and Denise Roberts Hurlin.
Photos of the evening were taken by Sean Zanni PMC.
Bebe Neuwirth and Chris Calkins, Hank and Gerry Alpert and Jonah Boaker were some of the numerous guests that enjoyed the evening at the Lincoln Center.
@giselle honours the memory of every young life lost to Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS) complications.
Catherine Hurlin and Joshua Beamish
Brian and Joanna Fisher
PHOTOS BY SEAN ZANNI/PMC and DAVID COOPER
WindowsWear Awards 2020
On Tuesday January 14, representatives from top fashion brands gathered at Marquee New York to attend the 2020 WindowsWear Awards. The mesmerising screen technology of the venue offered a high-tech modern platform to present the awards. Other event sponsors included MICAM Milan, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, GT’s Kombucha and La Maison du Macaron. The awards were hosted by fashion commentator, author and judge on NBC’s ‘Making it’ Simon Doonan.
Host Simon Doonan
With constantly multiplying numbers of retail options, visual creativity combined with technological innovations are becoming increasingly imperative to brand success. The WindowsWear Awards celebrate the world’s most creative brands and innovations impacting the retail industry by showcasing tens of thousands of visual displays from around the world, with nominations given to the ones that show “extraordinary accomplishments” in a variety of categories ranging from interior design to hospitality. Members of WindowsWear then vote for their favourite nominees, with the winners being announced at the annual awards show.
Founded in 2012, WindowsWear provides digital archival collections dating back to 1931 reflecting the physical and e-commerce environments of fashion at the time, connecting creatives across the world. With different types of membership granting varied access and contribution opportunities, the company allows brands to gain “unparalleled competitor intelligence and trend data” in the retail industry and educators can “take students back in time to study visual creative and fashion trends.” Other initiatives include the WindowsWear Messaging App facilitating secure communication between retailers and sellers or buyers.
WindowsWear co-founders Jon Harari, Raul Tovar and Micheal Niemtzow
List of 2020 WindowsWear Award Winners:
BEST INTERIOR: Bottega Veneta
BEST POP-UP: Tory Burch
BEST EXHIBIT/INSTALLATION: Louis Vuitton
BEST AR/VR EXPERIENCE: Clinique
BEST PACKAGING: Longchamp
BEST WINDOW DISPLAY: Etro
BEST HOLIDAY WINDOW DISPLAY: Bloomingdale’s
BEST ICON WINDOW: Micheal Kors
BEST PROP: Loro Piana
BEST MANNEQUIN: Macy’s
BEST COLLABORATION: H&M and Giambattista Valli
BEST USE OF COLOR: Kleinfeld Bridal
SUSTAINABILITY: Salvatore Ferragamo
BEST USE OF TECHNOLOGY: Louis Vuitton
BEST INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE: Micheal Kors
BEST USE OF LIGHT: Dior
HERITAGE: Coach
HOSPITALITY: Ralph Lauren
LEGACY WINNER: Nordstrom
MOST LIKED ON @Windowswear: Versace
SIMON DOONAN AWARD: Alice + Olivia
Visit the WindowsWear website to see photos of the outstanding nominated and winning creations.
All photos by WindowsWear
TOP JANUARY NYC EVENTS
The 10th annual Beer Bourbon & BBQ Festival is going to be EPIC! ……It’s a Southern Fried Good Time! Thank You Manhattan for a decade of outrageous fun – we are now going to spread our wings a bit and head across the river to Brooklyn. It’s time for one hellacious day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbeque eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy an ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-TASTE sampling of beer and bourbon.
Each Guest Receives a Souvenir Glass and the first 300 VIP get a Souvenir Bag.
BEAST CAGE: The Beast Cage is Back and Serving Up EXOTIC SMOKED MEATS all day: Alligator, Lamb, Bison, Longhorn Rounds, and much more.
The SHRINE OF SWINE is back! Enjoy whole hogs during each session. Pork worship at its finest!
Enjoy seminars in the Tasting Theater with Master Distillers, Brewmasters, and Pit Masters from the deep South.
Dance Or Rock Out to the DJs playing all your favorite tunes.
Browse brewerania, hot sauces, and BBQ accessories.
Bacon Eating Contest
Aquarius specialty cocktails and water are complementary to all ticket holders. Full meals will be available for purchase. Tickets begin at $95 and can be purchased by visiting: https://www.aquariusnyc.com Guests will also be invited to help save the ocean and the planet by donating $10 to Oceanic Global, AQUARIUS 2020’s official ocean conservation charity and sustainability partner.
The Winter Show is the leading art, antiques, and design fair in America, featuring 70 of the world’s top experts in the fine and decorative arts from ancient times to the present day. The Winter Show is an annual benefit for East Side House Settlement, a community-based organization serving the Bronx and Northern Manhattan. The Winter Show maintains the highest standards of quality in the art market, and each object is vetted for authenticity, date, and condition by a committee of 150 experts from the United States and Europe.
Tickets
Art Party Ticket
$250 ($200 for Whitney Contemporaries members), admits one
Artist Sponsor Ticket
$500 ($450 for Whitney Contemporaries members), admits one
The purchase of an Artist Sponsor ticket allows the Whitney to extend a complimentary ticket to an artist of its choosing.
Art Party proceeds benefit the Independent Study Program and other education initiatives of the Whitney.
The Largest Travel Trade and Consumer Show in North AmericaThe New York Times Travel Show attracts more than 35,000 attendees with over 700 exhibitors from more than 175 countries, making it the largest travel trade and consumer show in North America. Join us for the 2020 show on January 24 – 26 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.GET MORE INFORMATION
Sotheby’s Wine is hosting the annual Union Des Grands Crus De Bordeaux—and we’d like to invite you as our guest! This premier event brings together Bordeaux’s leading producers in celebration of the 2017 vintage, for a lively evening of tastings at Cipriani 42nd Street.
Naughty or Nice at The Skinny
First there was Jingle Hells, then it was Helliday Inn and now The Skinny on the Lower East Side transformed into its newest anti-holiday pop-up Naughty or Nice. Naughty and nice guests attended a preview that debuted the floor-to-ceiling over-the-top gaudy Christmas decor, unique cocktails like Milk n’ Cookies, The Horny Stag and Grinding up Against the Gingerbread Man and food menu offerings including Reindeer Balls (deep fried sausage stuffing and gravy), a Turducken Burger and Elf Weenies n’ Blankets.
A boozed up angry Santa greeted revelers as they walked in and seductive burlesque performer Velvetina Taylor had the crowd going wild. Guests also enjoyed games like a Wheel of Misfortune and the Holiday Claw Machine, which offered a chance to win absurd prizes.
As the holiday approaches NYC, it becomes difficult to choose the right bar to go to, but the holiday pop-up at The Skinny definitely merit a trip. The ambiance is extraordinary and the cocktails and staff are truly exquisite. You will be treated like royalty upon arrival and every aspect of your experience will be amazing.
Naughty or Nice will welcome visitors now through through December 31st. For more information, visit: https://www.theskinny-nyc.com
Photos by The Skinny NYC
A Night in Mexico Gala
On Saturday, December 7th, Pildora hosted an A Night in Mexico, a fundraiser supporting the Vida Digna Foundation of Chihuahua, Mexico. For almost 25 years, Vida Digna has sustained the Rarámuri communities of Chihuahua, Mexico. The heart of the foundation is to help these communities gain their basic necessities, such as healthcare, education, and clean drinking water.
The event was created and organized by none other than Pildora’s CEO and founder, Christina Almeida. Growing up in Chihuahua, Christina experienced the Rarámuri people firsthand and was always intrigued by their lifestyle and their love and respect for the planet. Bringing them to light in the New York City community was a dream come true. Not only did she want to raise funds for them, but she wanted guests to have the opportunity to learn from their communities’ respectful and sustainable culture.
The Rarámuri people’s appreciation for nature, love for our earth, and absolute respect for human life are basic fundamentals of the Rarámuri culture. The Rarámuri have been around for centuries and have endured disease and famine, but their ideologies have not changed. Today’s modern world must learn from the Rarámuri if we are to prosper together.
Hosted by Eglantina Zingg and Christina Almeida, the sustainable event began with a cocktail hour, where guests were transported to the streets of Mexico City to the beat of a live band in a space reminiscent of Frida Kahlo’s back yard, filled with plants, candles, and rich blues, yellows, and hints of pink. Greenery wrapped in twinkle lights cascaded from the ceiling and bright floral arrangements filled the corners of the room and adorned each table. A traditional Mexican gourmet meal was served while guests enjoyed an opening performance by Aztec calpulli dancers, dressed in beautifully colored dresses and Mariachi hats, performing a traditional Aztec dance.
A silent auction followed, featuring donated pieces from artists from the United States and Mexico, including purses from the Canna Project, a custom jacket from AndAgain, and paintings from Chrystal Rae, JD Miller, and Mateo Nava. A raffle was also held and one lucky guest took home a commissioned piece by artist Chrystal Rae.
Pildora presented its first-ever Positive Impact Award. This award was created to recognize those who have spent multiple years devoting their lives to sustainability, welfare, and the betterment of the world, something Pildora strives to do every day.
Christina presented the award to Victor Almeida and Alfredo Harp Helu for establishing the Vida Digna Foundation and for their devotion to the welfare of humanity and support for the Rarámuri over the last 20 years. The award and awardees represent Pildora’s values as a company and organization. Sustainable communities are at the forefront of everything we do, and so is our appreciation for them.
The night concluded with another performance by the Calpulli dancers in the Mexican Jalisco tradition. Guests were absolutely enchanted and so moved by the beauty and passion of the dancers that many jumped on stage after the performance and danced in absolute joy and celebration of Mexican culture and the Rarámuri.
If you would like to help Vida Digna Foundation, you can donate HERE.
TOP DECEMBER NYC EVENTS
WINTER WONDERLAND BALL 2019
Friday, December 13, 2019
8 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. | #WinterBallNYBG
The Best Holiday Gala in New York!
Black Tie
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/11th-annual-latke-festival-tickets-55945999992
11th Annual Latke Festival
About The Event
One of New York City's most unique and delicious holiday tasting events, the Latke Festival is a charity event benefiting The Sylvia Center and organized by Great Performances Catering. This one-night affair celebrates the best and most creative potato pancakes in our city.
For its fourth year in a row, the 11th Annual Latke Festival will be held at the stunning Brooklyn Museum and is already on track to be our biggest celebration of latkes yet.
Join us and our panel of celebrity judges on December 16th to ring in the holidays, enjoy amazing food and drink, dance to our live DJ and vote for the Best Latke of all!
www.latkefestival.com | #LatkeFest | #TheSylviaCenter | @GPFood | @SylviaCenter
3. Big Band Holidays
What To Expect
Soulful, big band versions of holiday classics
Holiday cheer for all ages
Brand-new songs added to the JLCO’s holiday repertoire
It’s the most wonderful time of year in the House of Swing! The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and music director Marcus Printup continue a beloved New York tradition with Big Band Holidays. Featuring soulful, big band versions of classics like “Jingle Bells,” “Joy to the World,” and “Brazilian Sleigh Ride,” Big Band Holidays is an uplifting holiday program that plays to sold-out audiences every December.
Big Band Holidays is renowned for showcasing some of the most exciting and charismatic vocalists on the scene, with recent editions including Cécile McLorin Salvant, Gregory Porter, René Marie, Vuyo Sotashe, Veronica Swift, and Catherine Russell. This year we welcome back an old favorite, the smooth-as-silk baritone vocalist Denzal Sinclaire. We’re also thrilled to present a Big Band Holidays first-timer: local teenage phenomenon Alexis Morrast, first-place winner of the nationally broadcast Showtime at the Apollo.
4. LuminoCity Festival
LuminoCity Inc. is a multimedia entertainment company that transforms captivating stories into multidimensional experiences. By exploring the intersection of art forms, LuminoCity seeks to blur the lines between virtuality and reality when curating unforgettable experiences for all audiences. In the inaugural year of 2019, LuminoCity proudly presents its signature event LuminoCity Festival, a month-long holiday event with an exhibition of spectacular light art displays, live performances, and a celebration of cultures.
5. New Years Eve Gala at The Metropolitan Opera
New Year’s Eve Gala
STARRING
Anna Netrebko
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2019
In an unprecedented program to celebrate the new year, Anna Netrebko pulls out all the Puccini stops, starring as Mimì, Tosca, and Turandot in one gala evening. The star soprano will sing Act I of La Bohème, opposite tenor Matthew Polenzani, and Act I of Tosca and Act II of Turandot, opposite tenor Yusif Eyvazov. Conducted by Met Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and featuring an outstanding cast that also includes baritones Quinn Kelsey and Davide Luciano, and bass-baritones Evgeny Nikitin and Christian Van Horn, this will be an evening not to be missed. Each of the acts will be fully staged and costumed in the respective (and spectacular) Zeffirelli and McVicar productions.
6. New Year's Eve Fireworks in Prospect Park
Join Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams and Prospect Park Alliance for Brooklyn's most spectacular New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration at Prospect Park's iconic Grand Army Plaza. This free event includes live entertainment followed by fireworks at the stroke of midnight. This family-friendly fireworks display, now in its 40th year, attracts tens of thousands of revelers to Prospect Park, making it one of the city's most popular celebrations.
This event is free and open to the public, and will take place rain or shine!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-years-eve-fireworks-in-prospect-park-tickets-71550955835
Kick Off Celebration For The 65th Viennese Opera Ball
Credit: John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
The Viennese Opera Ball announced their upcoming gala at the Upper East Side residence of Sabine Riglos, a board member. “The Viennese Opera Ball is one of the highlights of the annual charity season for Austrian Americans, with performances by extraordinary opera singers and musicians” explained artistic director Daniel Serafin as he introduced mezzo soprano Nicole Piccolomini, who sing “L'amour est un oiseau rebelle” from Carmen. " Juilliard violinist Anastasia Mazurok also performed a solo by Bach. All providing a taste of what's to come at the 65th Viennese Opera Ball. Silvia Frieser, president and executive director said, "With it's long-standing tradition of 65 consecutive years, the Viennese Opera Ball demonstrates that the ballroom and the dance floor is the best platform for cultural exchange between distinguished guests and nations."
Credit: John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Credit: John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Each year, the Ball supports charitable projects connected to New York and Vienna. This year proceeds will benefit the musical therapy program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center through Gabrielle's Angel Foundation for Cancer Research. Their CEO, Jen Raniri, and Associate Director of Development, Michele Keene, also shared a few words about the importance of the program.
Among the guests were Nathan Lee Graham, who will emcee the upcoming Ball, Chair Jean Shafiroff (who will be joined at the Ball by Chairs Denise Rich and Elisabeth Muhr), Host Committee members Janna Bullock, Joanna Fisher, Ana Saucedo, and Marisa Rose van Bokhorst, Junior Chairs Colgate Rumbough and Emily Mohr, and Board Member Stefan Oehner as well as Audra Asencio, Leszek Barwinski-Brown (CEO, Lang Lang International Music Foundation), Maestro Alvise Casellati, Adrian Danchig-Waring (principal dancer, NYC Ballet), Michael Friedl, Franz Gerhardter, Eric Huebscher, and Catherine Leung.
Credit: John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
Credit: John Sanderson/Annie Watt Agency
The 65th Viennese Opera Ball will take place on February 7, 2020. There is nothing like this in America with traditions that could only come from the oldest Royal houses in Austria and Europe. Just like in Europe, the celebration with both music and dance, with a Midnight Quadrille that enlivens the dance floor until 4am. The Viennese Opera Ball is inspired by the famous Vienna Opera Ball in Austria, but it is an American 501 (c)(3) not for profit association.