It’s safe to say we had a pretty rough winter this year, and if you’re like us, you’re probably checking the weather app every five minutes, praying the 60-degree forecast actually sticks this time.
But with the days finally getting longer and the city starting to shake off its winter gray, it’s officially safe to say New York is waking up!
Spring is on the horizon and if you’re looking for plan inspirations already, we have some suggestions.
From the return of our favorite open-air food markets to massive museum expansions and the “pinkest” season in Brooklyn, here’s a head start on creating your spring bucketlist.
These are the absolute best things to see and do in NYC this spring!
The 23rd annual Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden is officially the most ambitious one yet!
Designed by the world-renowned (and mask-wearing) artist Mr. Flower Fantastic, the show transforms the Bronx’s iconic glasshouse into a floral reimagining of New York City.
Complete with orchid-covered subway stations, blooming pizza shops, and thousands of rare flowers overtaking urban landmarks, it’s the ultimate spring sanctuary for anyone tired of the actual gray concrete jungle.
The Whitney Biennial is officially back this spring, and it’s trading a formal title for some serious mood.
Opening March 8, the 82nd edition of this legendary survey brings together 56 artists to explore everything from AI belief systems to “interspecies kinships” according to the exhibit’s curators.
Expect the museum to be transformed into an atmospheric “unruly” environment with large-scale installations, layered sound, performance, and work that asks you to sit with a feeling rather than decode a slogan.
Plus, in a major win for the younger crowd, admission is now entirely free for anyone 25 and under.
Classical music is getting a glow-up this spring as the viral Candlelight Concerts series takes over some of the city’s most breathtaking (and sometimes hidden) venues!
Imagine sitting in a centuries-old cathedral or atop a literal skyscraper, surrounded by thousands of flickering candles while a string quartet plays everything from Studio Ghibli soundtracks to 90s Hip-Hop.
This season’s lineup is leaning heavily into pop culture and nostalgia. For the Bridgerton stans, the Best of Bridgerton on Strings is taking over the Edge’s sky deck for a few select nights in March—letting you live your Regency-era fantasy 1,100 feet above Manhattan. If you’re looking for something a bit more “New York,” the Tribute to Lauryn Hill at St. Ann & the Holy Trinity Church is guaranteed to be a spiritual experience.
Spring 2026 Highlights:
- Bridgerton on Strings: Multiple dates at Edge (March 6, 7, 13) and St. Ann & the Holy Trinity (April/May).
- The Best of Joe Hisaishi (Studio Ghibli): Catch these magical melodies at Marble Collegiate Church (March 13).
- 90s Hip-Hop on Strings: A total vibe at the Church of the Heavenly Rest (March 19, 21).
- Tribute to Lauryn Hill: A soulful spring must-do at St. Ann & the Holy Trinity Church (April 25, May 16).
- Vivaldi’s Four Seasons: The classic spring choice, happening at the Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity (April 16, 17).
Cherry blossoms at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The wait is almost over and the “pinkest” season in Brooklyn nearly back.
While the blossoms are notoriously unpredictable, BBG has officially locked in its 2026 Hanami season calendar, and it’s looking like a masterpiece!
The highlight of the season is Hanami Nights, returning for four nights only from April 21–24, 2026. It’s a jaw-dropping opportunity to experience the Cherry Esplanade lit up after dark, turning the grove into a glowing, ethereal wonderland. There’s also live music and Japanese-inspired cocktails that ties the cultural feel together.
If you’re more of a daytime stroller, Weekends in Bloom happen on May 3 and May 10 this year.
Expect pop-up Japanese classical dance, taiko drumming, morning programming for kids and families in the Discovery Garden, and guided tours.
The “Kanzan” cherries—the thick, double-pink ones that everyone waits for—usually hit their peak right at the end of April, so it’s perfect timing.
After nearly two years of waiting, the New Museum is finally dropping its “under construction” sign!
Reopening March 21, 2026, the Bowery’s most iconic stack of silver boxes has officially doubled in size thanks to a massive 60,000-square-foot expansion.
This isn’t just a facelift; we’re talking twice the gallery space, a brand-new 74-seat forum, and a “vegetable-forward” restaurant that’s already trending to be the neighborhood’s new “it” spot.
To celebrate, the museum is throwing a massive housewarming with free admission all opening weekend.
You’ll be the first to see “New Humans: Memories of the Future,” a mind-bending exhibition featuring over 200 artists exploring how tech is basically rewriting our DNA.
Macy’s Flower Show 2026
While few details have been announced about the Macy’s Flower Show for 2026, you can still expect a fantastic floral experience.
This year’s edition will be Macy’s 51st, and while no theme has been announced, expect the iconic Midtown store to transform its main floor into a playful spring garden with thousands of blooming plants, flowers, and trees, plus immersive combinations of flowers, fashion, scent, and color.
Smorgasurg returns for 2026
The largest open-air food market in America kicks off its 2026 season this April, and as always, it’s bringing a fresh roster of viral eats that will be all over your feed by Monday morning.
Smorgasburg’s lineup is bigger than ever this year, with over 20 brand-new vendors joining the ranks of the classics. See the full list of schedules below and stay tuned for exact opening dates:
- Fridays: World Trade Center (Oculus Plaza)
- Saturdays: Williamsburg (Marsha P. Johnson State Park)
- Sundays: Prospect Park (Breeze Hill)
Spring Broadway debuts
Spring 2026 is packed full of incredible Broadway debuts filled with gritty film-to-stage adaptations, massive star power, and a heavy dose of cult-classic nostalgia.
The standout of the season has to be the world premiere of The Lost Boys (opening April 26). It’s a rock-infused musical adaptation of the ’80s vampire flick, and yes, it’s going to be just as moody and leather-clad as you’re hoping.
If you’re into something a bit more… “unconventional,” The Rocky Horror Show is returning to Studio 54 (opening April 23) with a wild cast including Luke Evans, Stephanie Hsu, and Juliette Lewis.
Other “Must-See” Spring Openings:
- Every Brilliant Thing: Starring Daniel Radcliffe in a moving, interactive solo show (Opening March 12).
- Cats: The Jellicle Ball: The viral Harlem Ballroom-inspired reimagining of Cats finally moves to Broadway (Opening April 7).
- Schmigadoon!: Stage adaptation of the Apple TV+ series, directed by Christopher Gattelli, sending up Golden Age musicals with original songs and deep Broadway in‑jokes (Opening April 20).
- Dog Day Afternoon: A gritty stage version of the Pacino classic starring Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear) (Opening March 30).
- Proof: Ayo Edebiri makes her highly anticipated Broadway debut alongside Don Cheadle (Opening April 16).
- Titanique: The Off-Broadway parody sensation is finally sailing into a big Broadway house (Opening April 12).
Check out NYC Footy’s 8th Governors Cup Tournament
This is your perfect opportunity to see some hyper-local soccer games before the World Cup kicks off in NYC/NJ.
Every year NYC Footy, an über fun adult soccer league, hosts the city’s largest sports tournament weekend with their annual Governors Cup Tournament.
Think 120 teams, 1,500 players (not including spectators) – this is a sporting spectacle! Taking place on Governors Island, just hop the ferry to watch the games, hang with friends, and catch epic views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Cost: Playing is sold out, but spectating is free (just show up – there are lots of fun activations and of course the chance to watch some epic gameplay!)
Greenpoint Comedy Club opening
Greenpoint is getting its own home-grown comedy cellar this spring.
Opening at 66 Greenpoint Avenue, the Greenpoint Comedy Club is the passion project of husband-and-wife duo Jeremy Pinsly and Kayla Sossin.
Their goal is to create a space that’s actually for the neighborhood, with low cover charges and a “hangout” culture that keeps the bar open until 2 am.
The 2,000-square-foot venue is split between a sleek front bar (serving craft cocktails by industry vet Dory Greenberg) and an intimate 60-seat showroom in the back.
The bar starts pouring during the Grand Opening Weekend on April 10–11, featuring a curated lineup of NYC’s best emerging and veteran comics.
The NYC Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival 2026
If you want to see New York City at its most whimsical, ditch the traditional parade sidelines and head to Fifth Avenue on Easter Sunday (April 5, 2026).
The Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival isn’t your typical “marching band and floats” situation; it’s a centuries-old tradition that’s basically a massive, informal street party where the only “ticket” in is a truly outrageous hat.
The “parade” is really a leisurely promenade from 49th to 57th Streets, with the most elaborate action centered right in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Expect to see everything from classic floral masterpieces to avant-garde sculptures made of Peeps, feathers, and even miniature NYC landmarks. It’s a photographer’s dream and the ultimate “main character” moment for anyone who spent the winter DIY-ing a show-stopping headpiece.
Times Square is officially entering its Willy Wonka era with the grand opening of i Candy NYC.
Located inside the iconic One Times Square, this multi-level immersive journey invites you to rediscover the Big Apple through a vibrant, sugar-coated lens!
It’s a total departure from your standard sightseeing—imagine wandering through a gummy-filled Central Park or exploring a whimsical version of Little Italy and Chinatown where everything looks good enough to eat.
Upon arrival, you’re handed a themed candy container that serves as your “passport” to the experience. As you meander through the various neighborhoods, you’ll uncover “sweet secrets” about the city, play interactive games, and—most importantly—fill your bucket with treats at every stop. The adventure ends at a massive Candy Shop where you can do one final “top-off” of your stash.
Tribeca Festival 2026
Mark your calendars for June, because the Tribeca Festival is turning 25, and they’re pulling out all the stops for this milestone anniversary.
Running from June 3–14, 2026, this year’s festival is a massive “thank you” to the city that built it, featuring a packed slate of world premieres, star-studded talks, and immersive storytelling that pushes every boundary.
Tribeca’s own announcement frames 2026 as a “legacy + future” year: honoring 25 years of indie premieres while “opening its arms even wider” to TV, podcasts, games, and immersive—essentially treating Tribeca as a cross‑platform storytelling festival, not just a film festival.
NYCFC matches at Yankee Stadium
New York City FC (NYCFC) is back at Yankee Stadium for a high-stakes slate of home games before the league takes a massive break for the FIFA World Cup 2026 this summer.
While the club splits its time between the Bronx and Queens, (and patiently waits for its new stadium next season), Yankee Stadium remains the heart of the action for some of the biggest matchups of the year.
The absolute must-see game of the spring lands on Sunday, March 22, 2026, when Inter Miami CF and superstar Lionel Messi comes to town. If you miss that one, keep an eye on May 10, when the reigning champions, Columbus Crew, head to the Bronx for “Women’s Empowerment Night.”
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
New York City’s oldest and loudest tradition returns on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, for its massive 265th edition.
As the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world (dating all the way back to 1762!), this is the day when Fifth Avenue officially becomes a sea of emerald green.
Leading the charge this year is Grand Marshal Robert J. McCann, the Board Chair of the Irish Arts Center, who will guide a procession of over 150,000 marchers—including the legendary “Fighting 69th” infantry regiment and dozens of bagpipe bands—past the steps of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
The energy along the route is unmatched, with nearly 2 million spectators expected to line the streets. Since the parade falls on a Tuesday this year, expect the midtown madness to start early and the surrounding Irish pubs to be packed from sunrise to sunset.
TD Five Boro Bike Tour
Imagine having 40 miles of New York City pavement all to yourself…no taxis, no delivery trucks, just you and 32,000 other cyclists.
On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour returns for its annual takeover, starting in Lower Manhattan and winding through every single borough before a grand finish in Staten Island.
It’s the largest charitable bike ride in the world, and for one day, the city’s massive bridges and highways become an open-air playground for riders of all skill levels.
The undisputed highlight of the route is the final leg: the climb up the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It’s the only time of year you can legally bike across this span, and while the incline is no joke, the panoramic views of the New York Harbor are absolutely unparalleled. Once you cross the finish line at Fort Wadsworth, the celebration continues at the Finish Festival with live music, food, and enough “we did it” energy to power the whole city.
Queens Night Market
The absolute favorite Saturday night tradition for every real New Yorker is officially back!
The Queens Night Market returns to Flushing Meadows Corona Park on Saturday, April 18, 2026, for its 11th season of legendary, wallet-friendly feasting.
With a strict price cap that keeps most dishes at just $5 or $6, it remains the ultimate antidote to NYC’s rising dinner checks.
To keep the opening-night madness in check, the first two Saturdays (April 18 and April 25) are ticketed “Sneak Preview” nights. For just $5 (with a portion going to charity), you get first dibs on everything from Tibetan momos and Venezuelan cachapas to Sierra Leonean stews without the massive May crowds. Starting May 2, the market switches back to its classic free-entry format for the rest of the season.
Yankees and Mets games
The crack of the bat is officially the soundtrack of the city as both the Yankees and the Mets prepare for a massive 2026 season. Whether you’re heading to the Bronx or Flushing, the home openers are essentially city-wide holidays, and this year’s spring schedule is packed with milestone anniversaries and high-stakes divisional matchups.
Mets Notable Games
- March 26: Opening Day vs. Pirates (1:15 PM) — Grab the 2026 magnet schedule at the gate.
- March 28: vs. Pirates — Don’t miss the 1986 World Series Replica Ring giveaway.
- April 11: vs. Athletics — The first chance to snag the highly anticipated Juan Soto 40/30 bobblehead.
- May 15–17: The Subway Series — The Yankees cross the bridge for the first installment of the year’s biggest rivalry.
Yankees Notable Games
- April 3: Home Opener vs. Marlins — The most electric atmosphere in the Bronx all year.
- April 15: vs. L.A. Angels (Jackie Robinson Day) — A league-wide tribute where every player wears #42
- May 1–4: vs. Baltimore Orioles — An early-season battle for AL East supremacy.
New York International Auto Show
The New York International Auto Show returns to the Javits Center from April 3–12, 2026, and North America’s oldest auto show is celebrating its 126th anniversary with a massive, high-tech takeover.
This isn’t just about looking at shiny cars behind velvet ropes; it’s about getting in the driver’s seat of the future.
The show is leaning heavily into electrification this year, with a massive EV Test Track on Level 1 where you can actually ride in the latest silent-but-deadly-fast electric models from Cadillac, Nissan, and Dodge.
The 2026 edition is packed with world-first reveals, including the global debut of the second-generation Volkswagen Atlas and a first look at Toyota’s all-electric 2027 Highlander. Beyond the futuristic concepts, you’ll find the fan-favorite Camp Jeep (an indoor off-roading obstacle course that’ll make your stomach drop), the Subaru Loves Pets adoption area, and the Kids EV Driving Academy for the next generation of New York drivers.
