Park Slope Planner: The Best Events May 22-26
Ahhh, a three-day weekend! If you’re staying in the city for Memorial Day and you’re looking for something fun to do close to home, we’ve got some great events coming up, from a tribute to Morrissey on his birthday, to a conversation with Jean Grae, to the largest festival dedicated to African dance in the country. Details on those and more:
Hello, Bushwick! Opening Reception & Salon
When: Thursday, May 22, 6-8:30pm
Where: Ground Floor Gallery, 343 5th Avenue
What: Check out some dynamic work by seven artists based in the vibrant artist community of Bushwick. Next week, there’s an accompanying walking tour of the artists’ studios, contact krista@groundfloorbk.com for more info and to reserve your spot.
How much: Free!
At Last I Am Born: A Morrissey Birthday Party
When: Thursday, May 22, 8pm
Where: The Bell House, 149 7th Street
What: Celebrate the music of Morrissey on his b-day with cover band The Sons & Heirs, if only because you want to see people and you want to see life.
How much: $15, available in advance.
The White Hot Room With Jean Grae
When: Friday, May 23, 8pm
Where: Union Hall, 702 Union Street
What: If you’re not familiar with Jean Grae, it’s time to get so. The hip-hop artists is everywhere and doing everything these days, and once again she’s bringing her new web-based series, Life With Jeannie, to Union Hall, where she’ll be in conversation with Food Network star Justin Warner.
How much: $10, tickets available in advance.
DanceAfrica 2014
When: May 23-26, various times
Where: BAM, 30 Lafayette Avenue
What: It’s the 37th year of DanceAfrica, the largest festival dedicated to African dance in the country. Check out a Madagascar-based music and dance troupe, attend dance and music workshops, shop at a Bazaar featuring 200 vendors, see an artist talk, and more.
Car Stereo (Wars)
When: Saturday, May 24, 11:59pm
Where: Union Hall, 702 Union Street
What: Mash-up DJ Chris Rose delivers a pop culture buffet by pulling together interesting, high-energy song combinations that keep sweaty dancers on their feet.
How much: Free!
Open Mic
When: Sunday, May 24, 8pm
Where: Tea Lounge, 837 Union Street
What: Looking for a low-pressure place to try out some new songs or other pieces? Tea Lounge promises “a great relaxed environment with zero judgment perfect for beginners.”
How much: Free!
Memorial Day In Prospect Park
When: Monday, May 25
Where: Prospect Park
What: It’s hard to believe, but Memorial Day is almost here, and whether you’re snagging the perfect picnic spot, taking an introductory course in bird watching (free at the Audubon Center from 1-4pm), or planting potatoes at Lefferts House ($3 suggested donation from 12-5pm), there’s no better place to celebrate the unofficial start to summer than Prospect Park.
Shape Up NYC: Couch To 5k
When: Monday, May 26, 7pm
Where: Meets in Prospect Park on the porch of Lefferts Historic House
What: After chowing down on all the BBQ, here’s a great chance to get moving at the end of the long weekend. This weekly jog combines group running, walking, and conditioning exercises to get you in shape for long distance running.
How much: Free!
Photo via Morrissey