South Slope Weekend Events Spotlight: May 14-17
Looking for something to do this weekend? With everything from operatic bars and a giant street fair, to fleece festivals and canoeing, you won’t have to go far for fun. Here are some of our favorite events from around the neighborhood:
Home Brewed Opera: English Edition And Karaoke
When: Thursday, May 14, 9pm
Where: Freddy’s, 627 5th Avenue, between 17th and 18th Streets
What: Get thee to the cozy confines of Freddy’s, where Home Brewed Opera (a offshoot of Opera on Tap) is set to perform “hilarious new English translations for modern times by Maggie Baer.” Afterward, stick around for karaoke with the Dirty Sexy Ensemble.
How much: Free.
Shape Up NYC: Cardio Toning
When: Friday, May 15, 12pm
Where: Audubon Center, Prospect Park
What: Shape up your core with a free cardio class in Prospect Park that will combine strength, balance, and toning exercises. No reservation is required, but it is recommended that you bring a workout mat.
How much: Free.
Pupnic
When: Friday, May 15, 5pm-dusk
Where: Neithermead, Prospect Park
What: Join pooches and their people this Friday in Prospect Park for potluck fun, and FIDO’s Mid-Summer Games. Look for biscuit eating competitions, “stupid dog tricks,” and more.
How much: Free.
Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Disco
When: Friday, May 15, 7:30pm
Where: LeFrak Center, Lakeside
What: Relive the electric ’80s this Friday, when Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Disco returns to Lakeside. Opening night is all about Flashdance, so be sure to rock your best roller disco attire. Note that admission is restricted to guests ages 21 and older. For more information, or to buy tickets in advance, visit the Dreamland website.
How much: $18 (includes admission and skate rental).
Roots Poetry Series
When: Friday, May 15, 8pm
Where: Roots Cafe, 639 5th Avenue, between 18th and 19th Streets
What: The monthly poetry series at Roots brings together an impressive lineup on Friday night! Expect readings from Todd Colby, V. Penelope Pelizzon, David Hutcheson, and Laura Plaster. Beer and wine will be available for cash donations, and (of course) there will be Roots coffee and treats.
How much: Free.
Spring Festival & Plant Sale
When: Saturday, May 16, 11am-dark
Where: 6/15 Green, corner of 6th Avenue and 15th Street
What: Plants will be available for sale, plus look out for a bake sale, face painting and games for the kids, live music throughout the day, and a neighborhood potluck that starts at 3pm.
How much: Free.
Fleece Festival
When: Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17, 2-4pm
Where: Prospect Park Zoo, Flatbush Avenue near Ocean Avenue
What: Warmer temperatures mean that it’s time for our Prospect Park Zoo sheep to receive their spring sheering. Families are invited to watch the zoo’s flock lose their winter coats, take part in crafts, listen to music, and more. Afterward, brush wool with carding paddles, spin yarn using a drop spindle, and even make a felt ball to take home over at Lefferts House.
How much: $8 for adults, $5 for children 3-12, $6 for seniors 65+,and free for children under 3
Food Truck Rally
When: Sunday, May 17, 11am-5pm
Where: Grand Army Plaza
What: Have the munchies? Stop by Prospect Park on Sunday, and nosh on goodies from some of the city’s best food trucks.
Fabulous Fifth Avenue Fair
When: Sunday, May 17, 12-6pm
Where: 5th Ave between Sterling Place and 12th Street
What: Not your generic street fair, this giant party celebrates local businesses with lots of food, games, rides, cool antique cars, art, and more.
How much: Free.
Basic Canoeing
When: Sunday, May 10, 1-3pm
Where: Audubon Center, Prospect Park
What: If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at canoeing, or need to brush up on a few skills, make your way to the Audubon Center this Sunday for a basic canoeing class. The program is designed for all levels (ages 8 and up), and the last group launches at 2:30pm.
How much: Free.