Happy Labor Day weekend! We’re sure cookouts and end-of-summer feasts are top of mind, which is why we’ve gathered 11 delicious (and apartment-friendly) recipes for the best bash ever. After you’re done with the meaty mains, refreshing drinks, and seasonal desserts, head out into the city for a host of family fun, from the NYC Unicycle Festival, tugboat races along the Hudson, Staten Island’s Richmond County Fair, and more.
STARTING FRIDAY
For the budding artist, Sol LeWitt’s mathematically based art are a vibrantly hued and painstakingly patterned sight to see. Don’t miss it at The JCC in Manhattan. (Friday-Monday)
STARTING SATURDAY
Say goodbye to summer in style with hot dog eating contests, live performances, magic tricks, farm animals, and much more at Staten Island’s Richmond County Fair. Hurrah! (Saturday)
What better way to celebrate the long weekend than with a costume parade around the Brooklyn Children’s Museum as part of the West Indian American Day Carnival? More Here (Saturday)
(Uni)cycle over to Governors Island for one-wheel races, unicycle basketball and hockey games, and riding workshops at the annual NYC Unicycle Festival. Got balance? (Saturday & Sunday)
The “Singin’ in the Rain” screening at Lincoln Center charms families in the transition from silent films to “talkies,” adding a little culture alongside humor and dazzling choreography this weekend. In 3, 2, 1… (Saturday-Monday)
STARTING SUNDAY
Calling all boat enthusiasts: The Great North River Tugboat Race & Competition means raging action on the Hudson, a Circle Line Cruise, and even a spinach eating contest. Dive in! (Sunday)
Head over to The Cloisters and its beautiful gardens for a leisurely stroll and family workshop about all the stories a facial expression can tell. Who knew? (Sunday)
The New York Botanical Garden pairs up with the New York Baroque Dance Company for a Labor Day Renaissance dance and music performance that families can join in on. Ready to groove? (Sunday & Monday)
MONDAY ONLY
Celebrate Labor Day at CMOM with a neighborhood collage featuring the people who help their community prosper, then visit the Red Grooms’ exhibit when you’re done. Get creative! (Monday)
More museum fun: artsy discussions and a serious sketchy session at the Metropolitan Museum–for free–when you need to beat the heat. Got your pencils? (Monday)