As September is nearing, so is Labor Day, the annual workers’ holiday, taking place this year on September 1st. A day of relaxation and time off work for many, it also marks the ending of summer. Here are some great ways to end your summer on a high note.
West Indian Day Parade
Photo courtesy @robert.sherman.photography
Join many others for a fun celebration of Caribbean culture at the West Indian Day Parade, taking place on September 1st. Starting at 10 AM, the parade will embark on Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, spanning from Utica Avenue to Grand Army Plaza. The event draws almost two million people annually. From fun costumes to music and food vendors, this celebration is not one to miss.
U.S. Open
Photo courtesy usopen.org.
If you’re interested in sports, the US Open will be taking place in Flushing, Queens, from August 18-Sept. 7 This marks the 145th edition of the US Open, being one of the four Grand Slam tournaments. The event takes place at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, and tickets sell fast so don’t wait to purchase them! More information on schedule and ticket purchases can be found here.
City Love Picnic
Photo courtesy Facebook @citylovepicnic.
Looking for a more relaxing way to spend the holiday and celebrate summer’s closure? Check out the 14th annual City Love Picnic. Taking place at the Turtle Pond Lawn in Central Park, this picnic provides a space for relaxation and rest with the community. Guests are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, blankets, and entertainment while a small selection of games will be provided. They will also be featuring a spoken word poetry set by Lacresha Berry (@berryandco). This event is free, and further information can be found here.
The Metropolitan Opera Summer HD Festival
Photo courtesy metopera.org
The Metropolitan Opera is hosting it’s 16th annual Summer HD Festival, offering ten free opera performances throughout August and concluding on September 1st. The event will be taking place at the Lincoln Center Plaza, with approximately 2,500 seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. On Labor Day, the festival will present Giacomo Puccini’s piece, La Fanciulla del West, which will run for approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. No prior ticket purchase is required for this event. The full list of dates and screenings can be found here.
Richmond County Fair
Photo courtesy historicrichmondtown.org.
Hop on the ferry this Labor Day and head over to Staten Island to check out the 44th annual Richmond County Fair. Opening just for Labor Day weekend, the Richmond County Fair will provide a variety of attractions such as carnival rides, games, and live music performances from a variety of performers. They will also be hosting various contests, as well feature 100 vendors+ selling food, beverages, antiques, and more. General admission tickets are $15, more information along with ticket purchases can be found here.