Photo courtesy Madame Morbid

As we head into the third week of December, discover these quirky events that bring a bit of joy, horror and discovery to New York City. Here are our top event picks:

Friday, December 15th

For a spooky Christmas, join Madame Morbid’s Trolley Tours, where trained Morbidologists will tell stories of scary Christmas figures and traditions around the world. This month, Madame Morbid is also collecting winter coats to benefit New York Cares. Guests who bring an item for donation will receive a $20 gift certificate for Madame Morbid merchandise or for use on a future tour.

Saturday, December 16th

Beyond the Brooklyn Bridge’s stately exterior lies an epic origin story. Now over 130 years old, the granite and limestone structure has dazzled both tourists and residents alike. On our newest tour, author, playwright and Untapped Cities’ tour guide Justin Rivers will not only unpack the history behind the Brooklyn Bridge, but also explore its many hidden secrets. Our unique walking tour will give you a whole new appreciation for one of New York’s most iconic landmarks.

The Secrets of Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour

Untapped Cities is excited to offer this new, exclusive tour of the normally off-limits Woolworth Building led by building architect Cass Gilbert’s great granddaughter, Helen Post Curry, who runs the Woolworth Building tours. Cass Gilbert was Curry’s paternal great grandfather and she began running tours in the Woolworth Building on the 100th anniversary of the landmark. As Curry says herself, “there are so many behind-the-scenes “secrets” about the Woolworth Building” and we’re excited to share them with you on this special, insiders tour.

VIP Tour of the Woolworth Building

Sunday, December 17th

Finish up your holiday shopping at the Sugar x Spice Holiday Makers Market (150 Greenpoint Avenue). From 1pm to 5pm, local artisans will be selling a range of unique wares, from clothing and jewelry to ornaments. There will also be a winter wonderland photobooth, dance performances, live music and tarot card reading sessions.

The Museum of Interesting Things is popping up in Soho. With his traveling exhibit, curator Denny Daniel is bringing the “fun of Coney Island” to 177 Prince Street, where the curious-minded can find vintage 16mm films, stereoviews, photographs and much more.

Join New York City’s flagship Unsilent Night event, taking place this Sunday. At 5:45pm, crowds will gather in Washington Square Park, where composer Phil Kline will lead a chorus of boomboxes from the West Village to the East Village. Bring your own sound-blaster and make sure to pre-download the track — an original composition by Kline, designed to be played in December — to participate in the event.

Monday, December 18th

Unlocking Public Space: Placemaking in Brownsville takes place at the Brooklyn Historical Society, beginning at 6pm. Moderated by Ginia Bellafante of the New York Times, the conversation about public space and placemaking in Brownsville will bring together Erica Mateo and Deron Johnston from the Brownsville Community Justice Center, and David Burney, Director of Pratt’s Urban Placemaking and Management program.

The 9th Annual Latke Festival takes place at the Brooklyn Museum, featuring a panel of celebrity judges, amazing food and drink and — potato pancakes, of course! Get your tickets for the event here, and prepare your stomach in advance.

Tuesday, December 19th

Three nights, 33 musicians, and one music festival: Stonefest at The New School kicks off on December 19th. Participate in the event to hear a variety of performances that span across different genres.

Wednesday, December 20th

America’s very first Virtual Reality Cinema & PlayLab has opened its doors on 180 Orchard Street. Immerse yourself in the world of VR with curated 360 degree films, full immersion games and 3D-body scanning technologies.

Untapped Cities founders, Michelle Young and Augustin Pasquet, will speak about their newest book, Secret Brooklyn: An Usual Guideduring an author talk taking place at the Mid-Manhattan Library. Following the conversation, there will also be a Q&A.

Thursday, December 21st

Celebrate the cold weather during Make Music Winter, a free, outdoor music-making celebration that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds. The event takes place on December 21st, during the winter solstice (the longest night of the year).

See all upcoming Untapped Cities Behind the Scenes Tours.