Image from New-York Historical Society
We’re halfway through February, and the warmer weather is finally beckoning New Yorkers outside. Participate in all the exciting activities taking place soon ranging from tours to film festivals.
Friday, February 16th
Support New York’s indie theater community and independent theater scene by attending Frigid New York, the open and uncensored theater festival that kicks off today, and runs through March 4.
Happy Chinese New Year! Check out our alternative events guide for quirky and fun activities taking place around the city.
Saturday, February 17th
The Queens Botanical Garden will be hosting various craft activities and performances in honor of the Lunar New Year! You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the “Lucky Plants” from chrysanthemums to jade plants.
The abandoned Ellis Island Hospital complex—once the standard for United States medical care (and later transformed to the FBI headquarters when the island served as a detention center)—has been left to decay for nearly 60 years. Now, Untapped Cities is bringing you behind-the-scenes for a unique exploration of the abandoned facility; on this experience, you’ll visit the contagious disease wards, the autopsy rooms and have exclusive access to places usually closed to the public.
Behind-the-Scenes Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital
Sunday, February 18th
The New York City subway system is the largest in the world and with hundreds of art installations scattered throughout its 430 stations, it’s also one of the world’s largest public art galleries. Join Untapped Cities tour guide Justin Rivers as he takes you on an in-depth tour of the subway art tapestry, weaved together to tell the complete history of the New York City commuter from Fulton’s first steamboat to the newly minted Second Avenue subway riders. Co-conceptualized by artist Aaron Asis, it’s a perfect compliment to our popular Underground Subway Tour or a fun stand alone for art, history and subway lovers alike.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour of NYC Subway Art
Monday, February 19th
Pay a visit to General Grant’s tomb and see George Washington’s tooth! We also have a guide to alternative Presidents’ Day events that will get you feeling patriotic.
Tuesday, February 20th
Join New York Adventure Club for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Society of Illustrators, the oldest non-profit dedicated to promoting the art of illustration.
Head to the New-York Historical Society Museum and Library to see “We the People,” an ongoing installation sculpture by Nari Ward.
Wednesday, February 21st
The NYC Pancakes & Booze Art Show, a traveling exhibition by 100 artists, features free pancakes, DJ music, live body painting, and a bar.
Thursday, February 22nd
The fifth annual New York WILD Film Festival takes place from February 22 to 25, bringing “all things WILD” to the urban metropolis that is New York. Featured films will cover topics ranging from wildlife to conservation and the environment.