NYC Travel Guide 2026: Things to Do, Eat, Events & More

NATIONAL BAGELFEST DAY 2026
2026-07-26 | 5 Boroughts, 5 Boroughts, New York City, NY, United States
National Bagelfest Day is celebrated annually on July 26, honoring the beloved bagel, a staple of New York cuisine. This day recognizes the cultural significance and delicious variety of bagels, encouraging enthusiasts to indulge in this iconic food.
In New York City, the festivities often culminate in events such as the New York BagelFest, which showcases local bagel artisans and offers a range of activities including tastings, competitions, and educational sessions. The event not only highlights traditional bagel flavors but also encourages creativity with unique toppings and pairings.
The origins of National Bagelfest Day can be traced back to Murray Lender, who initiated a free bagel breakfast for the residents of Mattoon, Illinois, leading to a multi-day celebration that has grown significantly over the years. In New York, this celebration has evolved into a vibrant festival that attracts both locals and tourists eager to experience the diverse offerings of bagels.
Whether enjoying a classic cream cheese spread or experimenting with innovative toppings, National Bagelfest Day serves as a delightful reminder of the joy that bagels bring to our tables.

NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2026
2026-07-21 11:00 - 2026-08-17 22:00 UTC
NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2026
This event turns the spotlight on the city’s unparalleled culinary diversity, allowing food lovers to savor prix-fixe meals at hundreds of top restaurants across all five boroughs at unbeatable value—perfect for trying Michelin-starred spots, neighborhood gems, or celebrity-chef haunts without breaking the bank.
Expected Dates & Duration
While exact 2026 dates haven’t been officially announced yet (as of November 2025), the summer edition consistently runs for about 4 weeks from mid-to-late July through mid-August. Based on recent patterns:
2025: July 21–August 17 (with some extensions to Aug 31/Sept 1).
Expect similar for 2026: Likely July 20/21–August 16/17, possibly extending into early September. Reservations typically open 1-2 weeks prior (mid-July).
Deals & Pricing
Restaurants offer tiered prix-fixe menus (on-site dining only—no takeout/delivery promoted):
$30: Usually 2-course lunch or lighter options.
$45: 3-course lunch/dinner at mid-tier spots.
$60: Full 3-course dinner at upscale/fine-dining venues (often Michelin-listed).
Prices exclude beverages, tax, and tip (add ~25-30%). Weekdays (Mon-Fri) mandatory; Sundays optional; Saturdays excluded. Many spots add bonuses like signature cocktails or extended hours.
Participating Restaurants
Typically 500-600+ venues join, from steakhouses (Peter Luger) to sushi (Sushi Nakazawa) and global flavors (Thai, Italian, Latin). Highlights often include:
Michelin-starred/Bib Gourmand spots (e.g., Crown Shy, Nami Nori, Cosme).
Borough diversity: Manhattan heavy, but strong Brooklyn/Queens representation (e.g., French Louie, Palo Santo).
Reservations
Via nyctourism.com (powered by OpenTable) or direct restaurant sites—book early for hotspots!
Pro Tips:
Weekdays less crowded; Sundays for brunch vibes.
Mastercard often partners for extras (e.g., statement credits).

WEBSITE: https://nyctourism.com/restaurant-week

4th of July Fireworks 2026 in New York City
2026-07-04 21:00 - 21:30 UTC | East River, New York City, East River, New York City, NY, United States
Join us for the spectacular Macy’s 50th Annual 4th of July Fireworks in New York City! This iconic celebration of Independence Day will light up the sky over the East River with a dazzling display of colors, shapes, and sounds.
Event Details

Viewing Locations: Prime spots include Manhattan along the FDR Drive, Brooklyn’s waterfront (Brooklyn Bridge Park, Dumbo), and parts of Queens (Long Island City). Arrive early to secure a good spot!

Fireworks Display: The show features thousands of shells launched from barges on the East River, choreographed to a patriotic soundtrack broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock.

Theme: Celebrating 50 years of Macy’s fireworks with a tribute to American resilience and unity.

Special Features: Expect innovative pyrotechnics, eco-friendly effects, and a few surprises to mark the milestone anniversary.

Tips for Attendees

Arrive Early: Public viewing areas fill up fast. Plan to arrive by late afternoon.

Public Transit: Use MTA subways and buses; stations near viewing areas include South Ferry, Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall, and Court St. Check MTA.info for schedules.

What to Bring: Blankets, snacks, water, and portable chairs for comfort. No alcohol or personal fireworks allowed.

Weather: July in NYC is warm, so dress lightly and bring sunscreen for daytime festivities. Check local forecasts closer to the date.

Additional Festivities

Pre-Fireworks Events: Enjoy live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities in Brooklyn Bridge Park and other designated areas starting at 4:00 PM.

Boat Tours: Book a spot on a fireworks cruise for a unique view from the water (reservations recommended).

Safety: Follow NYPD guidelines, stay in designated viewing areas, and report any suspicious activity.

Celebrate America’s birthday with one of the nation’s largest fireworks shows! For more details, visit macys.com/fireworks or follow @Macys on X for updates.
Note: Event details are subject to change. Check official sources closer to July 2026 for final viewing locations and safety protocols.
4th of July Fireworks 2026 in New York City
Date: July 4, 2026
Time: 9:00 PM EDT (Fireworks start at approximately 9:25 PM)
Location: East River, New York City
Hosted by: Macy’s

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest
2026-07-04 11:00 - 14:00 UTC
Coney Island gluttony glory: Joey Chestnut returns post-ban to defend title—70+ dogs in 10min? Surf & Stillwell showdown July 4 ~noon. ESPN live; women’s contest first. Free boardwalk chaos, Nathan’s lines, beach vibes—quintessential American excess!

Macy's 4th of July Fireworks in New York City 2026
2026-07-04 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | Brooklyn Bridge
In 2026, Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will illuminate the New York City skyline with a breathtaking display launched from both the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and four barges positioned on the lower East River in the Seaport District. This setup will offer miles of prime viewing for spectators across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, as the fireworks are visible from any location with an unobstructed view of the sky above the lower East River.
The fireworks will reach heights of up to 1,000 feet, creating dramatic visuals that fall to the water’s edge, culminating in the signature “Macy’s Golden Mile” finale.
Timing and Schedule

Showtime: The 49th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will begin at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026.
Brooklyn Bridge Park Access: The park closes at 3:30 p.m. and reopens at 6:30 p.m. exclusively for ticketed guests.
Empire State Building: Special Fourth of July tickets are valid from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for elevated viewing.

For Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks in New York City, the best seats and viewing spots offer unobstructed, elevated, or centrally located views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.
Seating and Viewing Locations

Free Ticketed Areas: 100,000 free tickets are available for prime viewing at Brooklyn Bridge Park and designated sections at Pier 16 and Pier 17 in Manhattan’s Seaport District.Tickets are distributed online starting at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Brooklyn Bridge Park: Up to four tickets per person.
Seaport (Pier 16/17): Up to two tickets per person.

Early Access: The first 2,500 people to text “FIREWORKS” to Mayor Adams at 917-909-2288 get four free tickets to Brooklyn Bridge Park before the general release.
ADA Accessibility: An ADA-accessible viewing area is available on the Manhattan side at Murry Bergtraum Field, accessible via Pike Street and Cherry Street.
Other Public Viewing: The fireworks are visible from the FDR Drive and other vantage points throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens for those without tickets.
VIP and Elevated Experience: The Empire State Building offers exclusive, ticketed viewing from its observation decks.

Locations and Street Closures

Launch Site: Fireworks are launched from barges on the lower East River and from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
Street Closures: In Manhattan, the area bounded by Grand Street (north), Catherine Street/Slip (south), South Street/FDR Drive (east), and East Broadway (west) will be closed at the discretion of the NYPD.

Broadcasting

Television: The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks will be broadcast nationally on NBC and streamed on Peacock from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET.
Live Performances: Before the fireworks, a star-studded lineup—including Tanner Adell, Luis Fonsi, The War And Treaty, and Lainey Wilson—will perform live. The fireworks are accompanied by a custom musical score produced by Grammy and Emmy Award winner Jason Howland.

This guide ensures you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy one of New York City’s most spectacular summer events.

Fleet Week 2026 in New York City
2026-07-03 - 2026-07-08 | Manhattan, Manhattan, New York City, United States
Fleet Week 2026 in New York City is set to take place from July 03 to July 08. This annual event celebrates the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, featuring a variety of activities designed to honor and engage with service members.
Highlights of Fleet Week include:
Parade of Ships: The event kicks off with a spectacular parade entering New York Harbor, visible from locations like Battery Park and Hudson River Park.
Ship Tours: Visitors can explore large naval vessels docked at the New York Passenger Ship Terminal, with tours available from Thursday to Tuesday, 8 AM to 5 PM.
Military Demonstrations: Expect thrilling displays including Navy divers showcasing their skills in Times Square and air shows over the city.
Intrepid Museum Events: The Intrepid Museum will host special events, including a movie screening on the flight deck and a Memorial Day ceremony.
This year marks a continuation of Fleet Week’s rich history, which began in 1935. It serves not only as a celebration of military service but also as an opportunity for the community to connect with those who protect the nation.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage
2026-06-13 12:00 - 2026-06-30 23:59 UTC
Soccer’s global superpower lands: MetLife hosts June 13,16,22,25,26,27,30 matches—fan fests, viewing parties, international energy exploding across NYC. Official NY/NJ stadium (easy NJ Transit from Penn); tickets via FIFA lottery, hospitality packages soaring—biggest sporting event in US history!

Museum Mile Festival 2026
2026-06-10 | Manhattan, Manhattan, New York City, United States
Tickets for The Best Museums in New York City at HelloTickets.com
The Museum Mile Festival 2026 schedule is set to take place on June 10, 2025, from 6 PM to 9 PM along Fifth Avenue in New York City. This annual event, often referred to as “New York City’s biggest block party,” offers free admission to eight renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim Museum, and Jewish Museum. The street will be closed to vehicles, allowing attendees to enjoy live performances, art-making activities, and interactive workshops as they stroll between the museums.
Visitors can expect a vibrant celebration of art and culture, featuring a variety of engaging activities suitable for all ages. The festival highlights the rich heritage of the participating institutions and encourages community involvement through volunteer opportunities. Admission is free, although some special exhibitions may require tickets or reservations. This event not only promotes public appreciation for the arts but also fosters a sense of community among participants and visitors alike.
The Museum Mile Festival 2026 will feature a variety of prestigious museums along Fifth Avenue in New York City. Participating institutions include:
– The Metropolitan Museum of Art
– Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
– Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
– The Jewish Museum
– Museum of the City of New York
– El Museo del Barrio
– Neue Galerie New York
– The Africa Center
These museums will open their doors for free during the festival, allowing visitors to explore their diverse collections and participate in special events and activities throughout the evening.

Tickets for The Best Museums in New York City at HelloTickets.com

Shakespeare in the Park 2026
2026-06-01 08:00 - 2026-08-31 17:00 UTC | Central Park, Central Park, New York City, NY, United States
Public Theater’s free Delacorte classics under stars: Star-studded Bard, digital lottery tix—Central Park tradition since ’62. 2026 lineup TBA but expect magic; line up early or win lottery—picnics, fireflies, NYC’s ultimate summer rite.

Manhattanhenge 2026 Official Dates and Times
2026-05-28 20:14 - 20:30 UTC | Unnamed Venue, NY, United States
Here are the official 2026 Manhattanhenge dates and times:

Date
Type
Best Viewing Time (ET)

Jueves, May 28
Half Sun
8:14 p.m.

Viernes, May 29
Full Sun
8:13 p.m.

Domingo, July 12
Full Sun
8:21 p.m.

Lunes, July 13
Half Sun
8:22 p.m.

Best Viewing Locations:
Manhattan: 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets (as far east as possible with a clear view west)
Queens: Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City
Manhattan: Tudor City Overpass

Japan Fes New York 2026 - The Village
2026-05-24 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
World’s largest Japanese food festival returns for its 10th anniversary in 2026! Dozens of authentic Japanese food vendors serve takoyaki, yakitori, ramen, karaage, okonomiyaki, matcha desserts, and more. Free street food festival that transforms NYC neighborhoods into a lively Tokyo-style celebration with Japanese culture, music, and delicious eats.

20TH ANNUAL DANCE PARADE & FESTIVAL
2026-05-16 11:30 - 17:00 UTC
NEW YORK’S LARGEST DANCE EVENT ANNOUNCES GRAND MARSHALS FOR 20TH ANNUAL DANCE PARADE & FESTIVAL: SATURDAY, MAY 16, 2026
Over 10,000 dancers will take to the streets in a dazzling display of artistic expression and cultural celebration at the 20th Annual Dance Parade and Festival. The festivities will commence with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 AM on West 17th Street and Avenue of the Americas, featuring this year’s esteemed Grand Marshals–Joan Myers Brown, Timmy Regisford, Christine Jowers and Jeff Selby—who are being honored for their outstanding accomplishments in the field of dance. A “New Style Hustle” performance orchestrated by Jeff Selby will set the stage for the vibrant procession.
At 12:00 PM, 150 dance groups will move down Avenue of the Americas, merging traditional and contemporary styles in an extraordinary fusion of movement and music. Dancers will showcase an array of genres from African, South American, Asian, and European traditions, alongside urban styles such as Majorette, Voguing, Breaking, Popping, and House as well as partner dances like Lindy Hop, Ballroom, Salsa, Hustle and Swing.

Japan Fes New York 2026 - Chelsea
2026-05-09 10:00 - 18:00, 2026-04-25 10:00 - 18:00, 2026-04-19 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

Japan Fes New York 2026 - Upper West Side
2026-05-03 10:00 - 18:00, 2026-04-05 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

Japan Fes New York 2026 - Upper East Side
2026-05-02 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

Japan Fes New York 2026 - Astoria
2026-04-26 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

Kronos Quartet New York Concert 2026
2026-04-25 20:00 - 22:00 UTC | Carnegie Hall, 57th Street and, 7th Ave, New York City, NY, United States
The Kronos Quartet will perform a special concert in New York City on April 25, 2026, at Zankel Hall in Carnegie Hall. This event promises a semi-staged, multisensory experience, continuing the ensemble’s reputation for groundbreaking artistry and genre-bending classical music performances.​
Experience: Expect innovative pieces from Kronos Quartet’s extensive repertoire, which features works by composers ranging from Philip Glass and Steve Reich to Björk and Paul McCartney.​
What Makes Kronos Quartet Unique
Known for their adventurous programming and more than a thousand new commissions since 1973, Kronos Quartet’s performances always push the boundaries of contemporary classical music.​
The current lineup brings fresh energy to every show, blending classical traditions with avant-garde innovation.​
How to Attend
Tickets are available through the official Carnegie Hall box office and various ticket platforms for this anticipated 2026 performance.​
This concert will be a highlight for classical and contemporary music lovers in New York City, marking the group’s remarkable 51st year on tour.​
Don’t miss the Kronos Quartet as they bring their boundary-breaking music to Carnegie Hall, promising an unforgettable night for New York concertgoers in April 2026.

Japan Fes New York 2026 - Morningside Heights
2026-04-18 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

Khatia Buniatishvili at Carnagie Hall, NYC 2026
2026-04-15 20:00 - 22:00 UTC
Georgian piano virtuoso: Chopin, Liszt in intimate recital—breathtaking technique.

Lady Gaga – The MAYHEM Ball
2026-04-13 20:00 - 23:00 UTC | Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York Ciyt, NY, United States
Pop icon’s extravaganza: Hits, visuals, Little Monsters unite at MSG for chaotic bliss.

New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Angels
2026-04-13 19:05 - 22:00 UTC
Bronx Bombers host Halos: Judge homers, Ohtani drama—Yankee Stadium roars.

Japan Fes New York 2026 - East Village
2026-04-12 10:00 - 18:00, 2026-04-11 10:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

La La Land in Concert
2026-04-11 20:00 - 22:30 UTC | Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Ave, New York City, NY, 10020, United States
Live orchestra syncs to Emma Stone/Ryan Gosling rom-com—City of Stars under Radio City’s stars.

New York Knicks vs. Toronto Raptors
2026-04-10 19:30 - 22:00 UTC | Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York Ciyt, NY, United States
Atlantic clash: Knicks defend home vs Raps—potential playoff preview.

New York Yankees vs. Oakland Athletics
2026-04-09 19:05 - 22:00 UTC
Pinstripes vs A’s: Midweek matchup—affordable tix, classic ballpark vibes.

New York Rangers vs. Washington Capitals
2026-04-05 19:00 - 22:00 UTC | Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York Ciyt, NY, United States
NHL rivalry: Blueshirts vs Caps—Ovechkin chases records in electric MSG showdown.
