Category: Family

Top Ten Things T🌞 D🌞 In NYC This Summer 🌇

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Summer is finally here! Looking for fun and adventure during these long, hot days? Here are ten great things to do in and around New York City this summer.

10. Visit a museum!

Too hot outside? Visit an air conditioned museum for free or pay-what-you-wish.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: https://www.metmuseum.org/ (New York State residents and students from NY, NJ, CT can pay what they wish).

Queens County Farm Museum: https://www.queensfarm.org/ (A working farm in the city, often with free admission or low-cost events).

9. Explore a Botanical Garden

Escape the heat of the city and immerse yourself in nature at one of NYC’s beautiful botanical gardens.

New York Botanical Garden: https://www.nybg.org/

Brooklyn Botanic Garden: https://www.bbg.org/

8. Discover NYC’s Rooftop Bars

Escape the heat with a refreshing drink & incredible skyline views.

Time Out’s Best Rooftop Bars NYC: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/bars/best-rooftop-bars-in-nyc

7. Go Kayaking or Boating

Many public boathouses offer free kayaking in the Hudson River and other waterways.

Check NYC Parks for free kayaking locations: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/kayaking

6. Catch a Broadway Show

To go or not to go? Definitely go! Experience the magic of live theater in the heart of the Theater District.

Broadway Direct (For show listings and tickets): https://broadwaydirect.com/shows/

5. Feeling Hungry?

Check out Smorgasburg: A must-visit for foodies, this open-air food market features dozens of local vendors.

Smorgasburg: https://www.smorgasburg.com/ (Check their website for current weekend locations and hours in Williamsburg, Prospect Park, and the World Trade Center).

4. Visit Governors Island

Take a short ferry ride to this car-free island for bike rentals, hammocks, art installations, and stunning skyline views.

Governors Island: https://www.govisland.com/

3. Wander The High Line

This elevated park offers unique city views, art installations, and lush greenery.

The High Line: https://www.thehighline.org/

2. Explore Coney Island

Enjoy classic amusement park rides, the boardwalk, and the beach! -Check for Friday night fireworks!

Luna Park in Coney Island: https://lunaparknyc.com/

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park: https://www.denoswonderwheel.com/

1. Catch a Free Outdoor Movie or Performance

NYC parks come alive in the summer with free movie screenings and live performances.

Bryant Park Movie Nights: https://bryantpark.org/activities/movie-nights

SummerStage in Central Park (Check their schedule for free concerts and performances): https://cityparksfoundation.org/summerstage/

NYC Parks Movies Under The Stars: Check the NYC Parks website for specific dates and locations: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/movies-under-the-stars

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INDEPENDENCE DAY!

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Independence – n., freedom from outside control

Federal – adj., of or being a form of government

Parade – n., a great show or display,  a public procession

Demonstrate – v., to show clearly

Patriotism – n., love for one’s country

Reflect – v., to realize, to consider

Expat (Expatriate) – n., a person who lives in a foreign country

Embassy – n., the official residence and offices of an ambassador

Homesick – adj., longing for home and family while absent from them

Colonies – n., an area over which a foreign nation has control

Highlight – n., something which is especially interesting

Spectacular – adj., striking, sensational

On July 4th, Americans all over the world celebrate Independence Day. In the United States, it is a federal holiday, so many people don’t have to work. Parades, picnics, and barbecues take place during the day, with fireworks lighting up the sky at night. Americans demonstrate their patriotism on July 4th, reflecting on their freedom and the things they love about their country.

American expats living out of the United States still observe the 4th of July. American embassies all over the planet host parties and events. Individuals celebrate with their friends, and many get a little homesick.

The holiday marks the separation of the 13 colonies from the rule of Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence (the document) was completed on the 4th of July, 1776.  But it was not signed until August!

A highlight of Independence Day in New York City is the evening fireworks display, this year to be held near the Brooklyn Bridge, on the lower East River. The spectacular display is the largest Independence Day celebration in the nation. For more information and where to watch the fireworks: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/where-to-watch-the-4th-of-july-fireworks

Happy Independence Day!

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Spring in New York City

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Spring in NYC is amazing—perfect weather, blooming cherry blossoms, and lots of outdoor activities. Here are some top recommendations: 

🌸 Enjoy the Blooming Flowers

– Brooklyn Botanic Garden – The Cherry Blossom Festival (Sakura Matsuri) is a must-see.

– Central Park – Walk through the Conservatory Garden or check out the cherry blossoms near the Reservoir.

 🏙️ Outdoor Sightseeing & Views  

– The High Line – A scenic walk with art, gardens, and views of the city.

– Roosevelt Island Tram – Take the tram from Manhattan and stroll along the waterfront. 

 🎭 Festivals & Events

– Tribeca Film Festival (June) – Catch indie films and premieres.

– Macy’s Flower Show (late March–early April) – A massive floral display in Herald Square.

🚲 Outdoor Adventures

– Kayaking on the Hudson – Free kayaking at Pier 26.

– Bike around Central Park – Rent a bike and enjoy the fresh air.

-Visit a traditional Chinese garden in Staten Island – New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden

– Roosevelt Island Tram – Take the tram from Manhattan go Roosevelt Island. 

🍽️ Food & Drinks 

– Smorgasburg (April–October) – A massive outdoor food market in Brooklyn. 

– Queens Night Market –  Over 100 vendors selling merchandise, art, and food in Queens.

🎶 Live Music & Culture 

– Shakespeare in the Park (starts in May) – Free performances at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.

– Jazz at Lincoln Center – A cozy live music spot.

⚾ Sports

-See a Mets baseball game at Citi Field in Queens or a Yankees game in the Bronx.

-Watch a soccer game at the NYC Football Club

🐯 Family Friendly Activities

-Come see your favorite animals at the Bronx Zoo

-Don’t like animals – how about fish? Pay a visit to the New York Aquarium.

–Children’s Museum – The B.C.M offers exhibits and programs for children of all ages.

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Lunar New Year

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2025 is the Year of the Snake

Lunar New Year is a major holiday celebrated in many East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Mongolian traditions. It marks a fresh start, emphasizing themes of family, prosperity, and good fortune. Key traditions include a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve, exchanging red envelopes with money to symbolize luck, cleaning and decorating homes with red banners and lanterns, and vibrant community festivities like fireworks and lion dances to ward off evil spirits.

The holiday also incorporates the Chinese zodiac, with each year linked to one of 12 animals, such as the Rabbit, Dragon, or Tiger. This year, Lunar New Year begins on Wednesday, January 29th. Celebrations often span up to 15 days, culminating in the Lantern Festival, which this year falls on Wednesday, February 12th.

Below are the 12 Chinese zodiac animals, including their associated years (1924–2043) and personality traits. What zodiac animal are you?

Rat (鼠)  

Years: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032  

Traits: Intelligent, resourceful, adaptable, charming, quick-witted, ambitious. 

Ox (牛)  

Years: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033  

Traits: Reliable, hardworking, patient, strong, disciplined, determined. 

Tiger (虎)  

Years: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034 

Traits: Brave, competitive, confident, unpredictable, energetic, ambitious. 

 

Rabbit (兔)  

Years: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035  

Traits: Gentle, compassionate, elegant, cautious, responsible, friendly. 

Dragon (龙)  

Years: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, 2036  

Traits: Charismatic, energetic, ambitious, confident, adventurous, innovative. 

Snake (蛇)  

Years: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037  

Traits: Wise, intuitive, enigmatic, elegant, private, determined.  

Horse (马)  

Years: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026, 2038  

Traits: Energetic, free-spirited, sociable, adventurous, optimistic, independent. 

 Goat/Sheep (羊)  

Years: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027, 2039  

Traits: Creative, kind, empathetic, gentle, sensitive, nurturing. 

Monkey (猴)  

Years: 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028, 2040  

Traits: Witty, clever, curious, mischievous, energetic, innovative.  

Rooster (鸡)  

Years: 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029, 2041  

Traits: Observant, hardworking, practical, outspoken, confident, punctual. 

Dog (狗)  

Years: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042  

Traits: Loyal, honest, trustworthy, protective, selfless, reliable.  

Pig (猪)  

Years: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031, 2043  

Traits: Generous, good-natured, diligent, sincere, kind, optimistic.

  

Happy New Year!

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Get a NYC ID!

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https://www.nyc.gov/site/idnyc/card/start-your-application.page

Why do you need a New York City ID? Because it’s another great thing about living in New York!

Your IDNYC card is a widely accepted, official form of identification. IDNYC is accepted:

  • By City agencies to access many services and programs;
  • By NYPD for the purposes of issuing summons or desk appearance tickets instead of arrest;
  • For entry into public buildings, like schools;
  • For taking the high school equivalency exam in New York City;
  • By employers, when submitted with proof of work authorization.

Your IDNYC card also offers a wide variety of exciting benefits that make it more than just an ID card. Your card can help you experience everything New York has to offer.

IDNYC Benefits Guide

The IDNYC Benefits Guide is a multilingual brochure that provides an overview of the key benefits associated with the IDNYC card in English, Spanish (Español), Chinese (简化字), and Russian (Русский язык), as well as dozens more.

This link will lead you to NYC ID benefit providers. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about these benefits or if you have any questions about accessing them, please contact the organizations listed in the guide. IDNYC is not responsible for determining your access to these benefits.

Click a topic, or press the enter key on a topic, to reveal more information.

Museums and Cultural Institutions

IDNYC cardholders are now eligible for free one-year memberships at over 35 participating institutions in 2022. Visit the Museums and Cultural Institutions page to find out more about the Museums and Cultural Institutions.

Including free one-year memberships at:

The American Museum of Natural History

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Central Park Zoo

Museum of the City of New York

and many more…

Banks and Credit Unions

With your IDNYC Card, you can open a bank or credit union account at one of several financial institutions across New York City. Visit the Banks and Credit Unions page to find out more.

Libraries

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You can use your IDNYC card at any public library in New York City. Visit the Libraries page to learn more about each library below.

  • Brooklyn Public Library
  • New York Public Library
  • Queens Library

Housing

Your IDNYC is the only ID card you need for affordable housing through NYC Housing Connect. With IDNYC, you don’t need a driver’s license, social security card or birth certificate to be eligible for housing on Housing Connect. Visit the Housing page to learn more.

Other benefits include discounts on prescription medications, fitness, groceries, and New York City attractions.

sources: https://www.nyc.gov/site/idnyc/index.page

https://www.nyc.gov/site/idnyc/card/how-to-apply.page

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St. Patrick’s Day!

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It’s almost St. Patrick’s Day in NYC!

Originally, St. Patrick’s Day began in Ireland as a Catholic holiday, but over the years it has grown into a festival of Irish culture. A week-long celebration of Irish music, theater, and visual arts takes place in many regions of Ireland. Family get-togethers are also important, as people sit down for a special meal. The feast of corned beef and cabbage, though, is an American tradition; in Ireland one is more likely to find bacon or a savory roast chicken on the table. 

Although the St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become a part of celebrations in Ireland these days, it’s the result of an American influence, where the tradition was created by homesick Irish immigrants. More recently, St. Patrick’s Day has become a highly marketable and promoted event in Ireland, resulting in an attractive draw for tourists visiting the country.

The NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade dates back to March 17, 1762, when it was first organized by a group of homesick Irish immigrants and Irish military in the American colonies of NYC. Participants enjoyed  the freedom to speak Irish, wear the color green- which was banned in Ireland at the time, sing native songs, and play the bagpipe.

These things gave powerful meaning to those people who fled their homeland.

Join in the fun! Come to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

The NYC Parade is held on March 17th and begins precisely at 11:00 AM. The Parade marches up Fifth Avenue beginning at East 44th Street and ending at East 79th.  

Reference: CUNY Baruch: NYCdata | Uniquely NYC (cuny.edu)

  1. Homesick- adj the feeling of missing your home
  2. Banned-adj not allowed
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Winter Holidays Expressions!

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Holidays times call for a holiday lesson on English idioms and phrases! It is likely that throughout December you will hear more idioms and phrases related to the upcoming winter holidays – Christmas, New Year’s, Chanukah, Diwali, and Kwanzaa.

Below is a list of 5 holiday expressions you might hear, with examples.

  1. Happy Holidays!

 This is a super common phrase that you’ve probably already heard!

 We usually say Happy Holidays in December because it includes everyone’s holidays in just one greeting! 

Instead of trying to figure out who does and doesn’t celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Diwali and the New Year, you can simply say Happy Holidays to wish everyone a happy holiday!

When someone says Happy Holidays to you, you can respond with a cheery (1) “Thank you! Happy Holidays!”


  1. The more, the merrier!

This phrase is excellent if you love to host (2) parties with lots of people.

The more, the merrier is usually used in response to someone asking if they can invite an extra guest.

For example:

Christian: Alex, Thank you for inviting me to your New Year’s Eve party! Can I invite my boyfriend?

Alex: Yes of course! The more the merrier!


  1. A scrooge/a grinch

This phrase is based on 2 famous holiday stories. Both Scrooge and The Grinch are angry or grumpy (3) characters in the stories. 

If someone calls you a scrooge or a grinch, they are calling you an unkind person who hates the holidays!

For example: 

Izzy: Can we listen to Christmas music?

Tina: No, I hate Christmas music!

Izzy: Ugh! Don’t be such a grinch!

  1. Ring in the New Year!

To ring in the new year means to celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of the new year.

For example: I don’t want to go out on December 31st. I just want to ring in the new year with my friends and family this year! 

  1. Get into the holiday spirit!

Getting into the holiday spirit means that you finally feel excited about the holiday season. You feel the “spirit” or the energy of the holidays!

For example: I bought all of my Christmas gifts, and I watch a Christmas movie every night while I drink hot chocolate. I’m really getting into the holiday spirit!

Source: English Holiday Idioms, Expressions & Other Common Phrases – Ellii Blog

cheery (1) adj. happy 

to host (2) verb. to have guests over 

grumpy (3) adj.to be In a bad mood

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