Everyone remembers their first trip to New York. It’s an unforgettable city, and there’s something especially magical about it, whether it’s your first visit or your 50th. There’s boundless energy to the city with its unique culture and flavor, and what better way to experience New York than through its street fairs. Street fairs are a great option for combining culture, and delicious food for a vibe that is pure New York. We’ve listed four of our favorite street fairs to visit while in Manhattan.
Atlantic Antic
This annual event usually takes place at the end of September. More than 500 vendors and musicians gather on multiple stages at NYC’s largest street fair. You can find a musical lineup of immense local talent performing: salsa musicians, DJ’s, indie-rock bands and solo performers. You’ll also find booths selling all types of accessories: shirts, bags, scarves, and more. Not to be overshadowed by the music, there are hundreds of food stands where you can grab a good bite. The food selections are just as diverse as the music, you can choose from Italian, Greek, Mexican, Caribbean, soul food and so much more! Whatever your taste buds desire, you can find.
Where: Atlantic Antic; 494 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn (40 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)
When: Annual Event: September 29, 2019
Queens International Night Market
From Hawaiian sushi to Peruvian-style ceviche, Mexican huaraches or Vietnamese Banh Mi, explore the gastronomic journey that is the Queens Night Market. Every Saturday this market showcases dishes from around the world– all at amazingly reasonable prices ($5 to $6 a plate). This is the perfect night-time scene for a picnic and taste good eats in NYC. There’s also a shaded beer tent where you can cool off with a refreshing drink and listen to live bands. Bonus: admission is free!
Where: Queens International Night Market, 4701 111th St, Corona (30 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)
When: Saturdays: 5:00 pm – 12:00 am
The Feast of San Gennaro
In Little Italy, over the course of 11 days, you can witness one of the oldest celebrations of faith in NYC: the Feast of San Gennaro. Enjoy colorful parades, catch free concerts, and of course, try incredible food during this event. We also highly recommend watching the world-famous cannoli eating competition. During this “feast of all feasts” a number of Italian restaurants on Mulberry Street have tables set up in the street where you can dine and take in the festivities. One of the biggest attractions is the Grand Procession, which features marching bands, floats, revelers and most significantly, the statue of the festival’s namesake, San Gennaro.
Where: The Feast of San Gennaro, Little Italy, Mulberry St. (25 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)
When: September 12 – 22, 2019
Hester Street Fair
Hester Street Fair is the place to visit while scoping out Manhattan’s Lower East Side. This one-of-a-kind cultural and community gathering is known for its vintage clothing, jewelry, bikes, furniture, crafts, art, flowers and much more. From lobster rolls, Vietnamese Banh-mi sandwiches, gourmet popsicles and hand-olled organic pretzels, you can try a vast variety of amazing food at this fair that the New York Times has called the “tasting destination”.
Where: Hester Street Fair, Essex St, Lower East Side, (20 min drive from The Lombardy Hotel)
When: September 14 – October 26, 2019
Staying in New York City – About The Lombardy Hotel
Need a place to stay for a quick business meeting? Love New York and looking for a staycation in the city? The Lombardy Hotel has everything you need to make your time NYC comfortable and entertaining. We are located in Midtown Manhattan, close to the best restaurants and most iconic places. We look forward to hosting you.