Cocktail Evenings and Summer Concerts

Head to the northernmost borough for a Renaissance-style get-together. Settle into New York Botanical Garden’s open-air pavilion for live music inspired by the Boot; the jazzy Marco Pignatoro Quartet (Thu 18) and tenor Micheal Castaldo accompanied by a string quartet (Aug 15). The temporary tent holds seating as well as plenty of room for dancing and mingling. As you sip the botanically inspired cocktail included with your admission, such as the Strawberry Fields (Crème Yvette, bourbon, ginger ale and lime; additional drinks $5–$8), wander into the conservatory to enjoy this summer’s “Wild Medicine” exhibition. Arrive early with a picnic basket for a leisurely dinner on the lawn.