Ian is the Culture Editor at Time Out New York whose passion is nightlife, entertainment and anything that gets people's bodies moving. He has written about culture, entertainment and identity for several places including VICE, PAPER, Them, Mic and others.

In his free time, Ian is also a DJ who goes by oyystersauce and founder of Whorechata, a collective for queer and trans people of color.

You can reach him at ian.kumamoto@timeout.com

Ian Kumamoto

Ian Kumamoto

Culture Editor

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Articles (38)

NYC's best summer music festivals of 2025

NYC's best summer music festivals of 2025

There's more than one kind of New York City music festival—in fact, there's probably one for every type of music lover you could think of. The first events that come to mind might be the big-tent fests like Governors Ball, but just as important are staple series like the queer-centered All Things Go, and the all-Brooklyn BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!, which keep crowds coming out to our beloved green spaces and stadiums all season long. Overwhelmed by all the choices? Check out our hand-picked this guide to the very best summer music festivals hitting town this year. We'll keep updating this as summer progresses, so stay tuned. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in NYC this summer
NYC's best Pride events for 2025, from the marches to concerts

NYC's best Pride events for 2025, from the marches to concerts

June is Pride Month, which means New York’s queer community is ready to party and—more than ever this year—stand up for their rights. At a time when the trans community is under attack across the country and even in our forward-looking city, displays of joy, resistance and community are more essential than ever. Whether you're looking to show your support by joining the NYC Pride March or looking for a place to dance your worries away, Pride celebrations continue all month long. We’ve assembled the best performances, comedy shows, parties, gay bars and events that'll have you dancing, singing, learning and feeling heard. And while there’s no official census or index, it’s believed that New York City has the largest LGBTQ+ population in America—and that’s something to celebrate all year long! RECOMMENDED: A guide to Pride NYC
The best parties and club nights in NYC this month: May 2025

The best parties and club nights in NYC this month: May 2025

Whether or not you realize it, New York is undergoing a nightlife renaissance. Communities that were once driven underground and considered "niche" have blossomed and claimed their rightful spot in the city's entertainment ecosystem—Note the whirlwind success of Charli xcx's BRAT last year.  Whether it's a new Latin party about to take over one of the biggest club venues in the Lower East Side, a Black-centered festival in Brooklyn's Prospect Park, or a party celebrating 2001 downtown NYC club culture, there's no shortage of exciting parties going on this month. Here are some of our top picks. RECOMMENDED: Out Late: Empanada Mama's flagship restaurant is the hottest gay bar in the city
The 26 best hotels in NYC, from midtown to NoMad and the Upper East Side

The 26 best hotels in NYC, from midtown to NoMad and the Upper East Side

Finding the best hotel in NYC to stay at, whether on a trip here or a staycation, is paramount. Yes, you’ll likely be out and about and the hotel simply serves as a place to lay your head, but a good hotel can make or break your time in the city. New York prides itself on its hospitality and that is pretty clearly evidenced by its best hotels. Every kind of traveler can find their perfect holiday haven in this glorious city, from sleek boutique hotels in the city’s trendiest neighborhoods to opulent luxury stays near the top NYC attractions. You’ll even find some of the best spas and restaurants tucked inside their lobbies. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Big Apple or a local craving an inner-city staycation, these properties take the cake when it comes to hospitality and hotel perks. Cue room service. February 2025 update: We have completely revamped our list by visiting dozens of hotels across NYC, most recently, the Carlyle. So know that when you’re reading this list, you’re getting the most up-to-date information. 🇺🇸 Click here to view our full guide to the best things to do in NYC🏨 Discover the best cheap hotels in NYC🌉 Explore the coolest Airbnbs in Brooklyn💗 Book one of the best boutique hotels in NYC Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities, and in-depth research to find you the best stays.
The 12 best sandwiches in NYC

The 12 best sandwiches in NYC

Growing up, a shelf-stable sandwich was a constant cast member in my brown bag lunch, from the reliable turkey with a squirt of mustard to the simple yet satisfying peanut butter and jelly variety, all of which was prepared by my loving mother. But as I've grown, so has my imagination as to what I can slide between two halves of bread.  The mighty sandwich is really a vehicle for all. Carnivorous appetites call for hunks of brisket and barbecue to pastrami-stacked creations. Yet sandwiches sprouting with veggies and vegetarian-forward ingredients can be just as satisfying if not more. And no matter what, a sandwich beats a sad desk salad, any day. When the hankering calls for a carb-laden lunch (or breakfast or dinner, we don't care), thumb through this list and discover your new favorite sub. Editor's note: We removed Bonafide Delicatessen and Cafe, Ciao, Gloria, Henry Public and Rowdy Rooster. We added Bark Barbecue, Calyer, Daily Provisions, Ends Meat, Ollin, Win Son Bakery and The Bonnie.  RECOMMENDED: The 25 most spectacular sandwiches in the world
The best 4/20 events in NYC

The best 4/20 events in NYC

This year, 4/20 falls on the same day as Easter Sunday, so you'll be able to ascend in more ways than one. For years, cannabis was driven underground, but in the past few years since weed was legalized in New York state, 4/20 has become a proper celebratory event. From large outdoor gatherings hosted by some of the coolest new weed brands out there, to a luxurious cannabis lifestyle store that just opened in Chelsea, there's no better time to light up than now. Additionally, here's the rundown on everything you need to know about marijuana legalization in NYC. You may gain some extra inspiration from watching the best stoner movies and best weed songs. Just remember to mind your manners with these weed etiquette tips from the Emily Post Institute. To keep the buzz going, check out the following 4/20 events in NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to NYC events in April
The best concerts in NYC in April 2025

The best concerts in NYC in April 2025

April arrives with a batch of killer new concerts, and tickets for the choicest events are already on sale or will be soon. You can catch unmissable acts playing at the city's best live music venues, from next year's biggest popstars on the rise to veteran fringe experimentalists. And if you're looking for some late-night music, be sure to consult our monthly list of New York's best parties as well. RECOMMENDED: See our guide to concerts in NYC
The 11 best weed dispensaries in New York

The 11 best weed dispensaries in New York

Where you buy your weed in New York City is important—it changes how you partake and whether you enjoy your high or feel your mellow. Luckily, New York City is rife with state-licensed cannabis shops that redefine the experience of buying cannabis, some offering a high-end atmosphere next to luxury brands while others offer a sterile experience akin to going to a medical office. Others are rooted in the community and bring in local artists and business owners to collaborate with. We've seen it all. Because there are just too many (over 200, actually) to include here on this list, we've pulled out our top 11 NYC dispensaries we think it's worth buying at. RECOMMENDED: New Yorkers will benefit from higher quality weed and more places to buy from this year, experts say
The best thrift stores in New York

The best thrift stores in New York

Sure, you can shop til you drop at New York’s iconic department stores and trendy boutiques, but who wants to go through the process of wearing in a crunchy brand new leather jacket when you can find a soft one with much cooler patches on it? Like the city’s flea markets, vintage stores and consignment shops, the best thrift stores in New York offer great deals and the potential for amazing, unexpected discoveries. Plus, shopping at a thrift store avoids the fast fashion pipeline, because it's always better to reduce, reuse and recycle!  You never know what you’ll find when you browse the aisles at these NYC thrift stores. You might score some gently-used Manolo Blahniks for a tenner, stumble on the perfect mid-mod coffee table or find the old band T-shirt you didn’t know you needed. We've all spent a few washes trying to get a shirt to soften up, and thrifting almost always ensures well worn in fabrics. Some thrift stores focus on a limited range of items, while anything goes at others. Many also offer buy-sell-trade options. Whatever you find, you know you’ll be giving new life to someone else’s castoffs. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC
Strange places New Yorkers are partying at right now

Strange places New Yorkers are partying at right now

It's well documented that New York City goes through major vibe shifts every five years or so, which means we're likely at the cusp of one right now. It makes sense if you think about it: We're at the heels of a recession, we're past COVID-19 but not exactly over it, and we're living in a strange new political reality that's turning every major American institution on its head. Through it all, New Yorkers will keep partying, albeit a bit differently. With less money to spend, even some of the most iconic nightlife venues are shutting their doors, and in their place are a new generation of DIY parties taking place in tattoo studios, Bronx bodegas, and other strange locations like we saw after the 2008 financial crisis. Remember The Night Heron, the party that took place in a Chelsea water tower? That energy is back. In honor of Stranger Things making its Broadway debut, we wanted to highlight other "strange things" around town, so here are five strange places New Yorkers are dancing at right now.
The best St. Patrick’s Day events in NYC

The best St. Patrick’s Day events in NYC

They say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's Day, which is all the more reason to celebrate! From the annual St. Paddy's Day parade in Manhattan to pub crawls and live music, the Big Apple is alive with joyful festivities splashed in green. If partying isn't your scene, there's still plenty to do, like trying Irish dancing and participating in Sober St. Patrick's Day activities. Either way, grab your green attire, belt your favorite Irish songs and bust out a limerick—St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is going to be a blast this year! RECOMMENDED: See the full St. Patrick’s Day in NYC guide
The best clubs and lounges in NYC

The best clubs and lounges in NYC

NYC currently is, and we’re confident always will be, one of the best cities in the world for clubbing and nightlife. While trends and tastes have changed over the decades, the best clubs in NYC are always in-demand. Maybe you’re needing to blow off some serious steam with an all-night party, or wanting to impress someone special with a venue that’s a little more discreet and sophisticated. Either way, if you’re looking to dance the night away, check out one of the lively music venues, dance halls, and raucous haunts that populate this list. Back in the day, the majority of the most popular clubs were concentrated in just a few neighborhoods, but now the best clubs can be found from Ridgewood to the Financial District. For more places to get down in venues other than clubs, check out the best places to dance in NYC. If you’re concerned about cover charges and bottle service, remember to pre-party at one of the best dive bars in NYC. So get out there and bust a move, and if you do it right, you can keep the party going by heading straight to one of the best brunch spots in NYC. RECOMMENDED: The best places to dance in NYC

Listings and reviews (311)

Criminal Queerness Festival

Criminal Queerness Festival

Despite upsetting news that the National Endowment of the Arts revoked $20,000 from the Criminal Queerness Festival in early May, the festival has defiantly chosen to continue its programming June 11 to June 22 at the Perelman Performing Arts Center. Criminal Querness Festival is organized by the National Queer Theater and has been dedicated to showing queer and trans artists from countries that criminalize or censor LGBTQ+ communities. The festival is an official event of NYC Pride and this year's festival will feature screenings of Tomorrow Never Came, written by Jedidiah Mugarura and set in 1987 Uganda; What You Are to Me by Dena Igusti, which explores the relationship between an aspiring singer and a zine editor; and others.  Because of the current climate, it's asking for the community to rally around its cause by buying tickets or donating.
New York Mets Pride Night

New York Mets Pride Night

We don't usually put "Pride" and "sports" in the same sentence, but this year we're staying open-minded. On Friday, June 13, the Mets will be hosting their annual Pride celebration, which will include a night of DJs, entertainment, themed cocktails, free merch for the first 15,000 atendees, and of course, sports! If you want to get the party started earlier, join the pre-game party at K Korner hosted by Drag Legend Jan Sport starting at 5pm.  Baseball fan or not, you know deep down this is an excuse to get all the girls and gays in one stadium.
Queerly Festival presented by FRIGID

Queerly Festival presented by FRIGID

Queer art is under attack, which means that if there's ever been a time to support LGBTQ+ artists, it's probably now. Luckily, despite the de-funding of queer programs across the country, the Queerly Festival will be back for its 11th year at UNDER St. Mark's (94 St Marks Place) and you can expect a slate of performances highlighting queer joy and resistence from June 12 until July 3.  Whether it's a one-woman show exploring current affairs through the perspective of two gay boys, a Drag History Hour that recounting the story of the Harlem Renaissance, or a play about a trans girl who leaves sex work to return home to her estranged mother, the performances will run the gamut from the defiant to the hilarious and heart-wrenching. Make sure to check out FRIGID's website for the full schedule and programming. 
Market Hotel Pride

Market Hotel Pride

Market Hotel, the nightclub at eye-level with the train tracks on Myrtle-Broadway, has emerged as one of the go-to underground venues in Bushwick, and every year its Pride party offers a grungier alternative to the happy-go-lucky functions of Hell's Kitchen. If you're trying to stir from Madonna remixes and prefer to get into some techno, trance and other harder genres—while still being super gay, of course—you'll want to be here from 11pm till late on June 28 for its so-called "Alphabet Mafia" party. Expect high BPM sets by Coral Kill, Vice, Boyfriend Dick and others.
Queens Pride

Queens Pride

The second oldest Pride in New York City, Queens Pride, might just be the most lit. On Sunday, June 2, expect to kick off Pride with a party, parade and vendors along 37th Avenue in Jackson Heights, which has long been a queer stronghold in the borough. The official celebrations will go from noon until 6pm, but everyone knows that nighttime is when the party actually begins—expect the gay Latin bars in the area, inluding Friends Tavern and Hombres Lounge, to be packed with partygoers well into the early morning hours. 
PRISM: A Festival of New Queer Musicals

PRISM: A Festival of New Queer Musicals

Back for its second year, celebrate queer musical talent in all its glory at PRISM Festival from June 14 to June 28 at Judson Memorial Church in Greenwich Village as well as The Brick Theater in Williamsburg. Watch creative teams taking part in concert-style, semi-staged performances dedicated to amplifying the voices of queer artists and musical theater. This is how it works: four creative teams embark on a paid developmental process spanning a minimum of 29 hours of rehearsal, culminating in two captivating weeks of concert-style performances. The plays at this year's PRISM Festival of New Queer Musicals include be Like BONE, created by Storm Thomas Directed, nicHi douglas and Rose Van Dyne; See/Unsee by Lila Blue, Ren Dara Santiago, Jillian Jetton and Noga Cabo; and others. Tickets go on sale on May 16 here.
The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine Pride

The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine Pride

It's not everyday you see "Cathedral" and "Pride month" in the same sentence, but that's what makes Saint John the Divine Cathedral so dang iconic. The world's largest Gothic Cathedral will host a month of celebrations featuring a mix of lively performances, thought-provoking discussions, and family-friendly activities. The celebrations will kick off on May 31 or "Pride Eve," with a performance of "the Greedy Peasant." There will also be a family picnic on June 14; A free Juneteenth concert by the Gay Men's Choir on June 20; and a Pride Evensong service on June 29, a perfect way to repent for everything we'll be doing in June.
Elsewhere Pride

Elsewhere Pride

Elsewhere is already pretty gay on a regular weekend, but their Pride party every summer cranks it up several noches. For a 12-hour long extravaganza that starts at 4pm and goes til 4am, the beloved Bushwick megaclub is bringing in Only Fire & Friends to its main hall, with a rooftop party during the day hosted by the AAPI queer collective Bubble_T on June 28. Other DJs who will be in the house that night include River Moon, Memphy and Sevyn 0000. 
Heritage of Pride Official Party

Heritage of Pride Official Party

The one and only official NYC Pride party, HERITAGE, is bringing a giant celebration to Brooklyn's Duggal Greenhouse on May 27. Expect to dance, dance and dance some more to house music, with showcases by progressive artists, inclduing Giolì and Assia, Chris Luno, Dim Kelly, and Kim Anh. 
DL Pride

DL Pride

On June 26, the dynamic duo behind TETEO Pride and Mercury in Reggaeton are bringing the fourth installment of their Pride series, DL Pride. The Latin-centered queer party is bringing a star-studded lineup of DJs that will include talent from NYC to Mexico City as well as the city's fiercest hosts to create an overall immaculate energy. Expect sets by Tommy Hart, Alexis de la Rosa, Flirty800 and resident DJ SKYWALKER. Join them at SILO Brooklyn and step into your full Thunderpuss fantasy—Because there will be nothing "down low" about this party.
Rooftop Lucha Libre Fight by Migo Events

Rooftop Lucha Libre Fight by Migo Events

This Saturday, the iconic Mexican-focused series Migo Events is bringing lucha libre, a style of professional wrestling that marries theater with athelticism, to a Bushwick rooftop. It wouldn't be a true Migos party without a lowrider, of course, so expect a cameo from one of the most beloved symbols of Chicano culture. The lucha libre tournaments will start promptly at 12:30 and will feature rounds of 2 men and 2 women. Once you work up an apetite, there will be cocktails and classic Mexican refreshments like elote and fruit.
NYCxDESIGN Festival

NYCxDESIGN Festival

Celebrate all things design at this annual festival that brings in the city’s top designers, makers, and manufacturers, along with cutting-edge design businesses and districts, and leading cultural and academic institutions. The festival covers all areas of design, from architecture and urban design to product design and entertainment design. The week-long festival from May 15-21 will take place at different venues across the five boroughs, so make sure to check out their website for updates on programming.  For the first time in years, Design Pavilion — New York’s premier public design exhibition — will coincide with NYCxDESIGN, presenting an immersive, interactive experience in partnership with luxury automotive brand Lexus. "Lexus Ambiance" will offer visitors a glimpse into the future of design and interactivity, allowing them to create their own personalized environments using light as their medium.

News (474)

ブルックリンで人気、日本テーマのミニマーケット「50 Norman」が拡張

ブルックリンで人気、日本テーマのミニマーケット「50 Norman」が拡張

2022年、ブルックリンのグリーンポイントに誕生して以来大きな成功を収めてきた日本をテーマにしたミニマーケット「50 Norman」が、2025年4月26日に売り場を拡張。3つのブランドショップを追加し、新たなフェーズをスタートさせた。 今回加わったの日本の家電ブランド「バルミューダ」、東京・合羽橋に店を構える料理道具専門店の「釜浅商店」、そして住空間と家具に焦点を当てたクラフト志向のデザインショップ「Cibone O’Te」だ。 さらに6月には、カフェ、レストラン、バーの機能を併せ持つ「Cafe O’Te」の開業する予定。フランスのワインバーのような雰囲気に、和の要素を織り交ぜた空間となるという。 これまで同マーケットに入居していた陶器やキッチン用品、禅の瞑想(めいそう)グッズ、アート作品を扱う日本のホームデザインストア「Cibone」、好みのだしパックを調合できる「Dashi Okume」、9品のコースを提供する和仏融合のレストラン「House Brooklyn」は、もちろん引き続き営業を続けている。 昨今のニューヨークは、まさに「ジャパンカルチャールネサンス」の真っただ中にある。2025年初めには「チェルシー マーケット」 に無印良品プロデュースの食品マーケットがオープンしたほか、インダストリーシティ内にはバンダイナムコショップが登場し、日本風クレーンゲームは再び注目を集めている。 50 Normanの拡張は、ニューヨークにおける日本的・日本発インスピレーションを受けたビジネスの再興における一つの象徴といえるだろう。 関連記事 『A Japanese minimarket in Greenpoint is opening three new stores(原文)』 『バンダイナムコがブルックリンに体験型店舗をオープン』 『ニューヨークで2店舗目、タイムアウトマーケットがユニオンスクエアに進出決定』 『「料理の鉄人」の新コンセプト店がタイムアウトマーケットニューヨークに登場』 『究極の没入体験「ミャオウルフ」がニューヨークへの進出を発表』 『赤坂に米国発ラグジュアリーホテルの「1 Hotel Tokyo」が日本初進出』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら  
A world-famous Mexico City bar is popping up in NYC next week

A world-famous Mexico City bar is popping up in NYC next week

For the past few years, my hometown of Mexico City has finally been recognized as a giant in the global beverage scene, and this year, a Mexico City bar, Handshake, was named the number one bar in the world. But there's another Mexico City bar that's my personal favorite—it's called Hanky Panky, and it has also been recognized as one of the world's best many times over since it opened in 2016. Next Thursday, May 22, Hanky Panky is popping up New York City for one night, and you should definitely try it for yourself.  RECOMMENDED: This new cocktail bar in FiDi is an ode to 'Moby-Dick' If you've never been, going to Mexico City's Hanky Panky is a whole experience. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Juarez, it's not an easy spot to find—I walked aimlessly up and down the same block at least three times in search of it. It turns out that the bar is hidden behind a nondescript taco restaurant that looks like dozens of others in the neighborhood. You have to ask the person behind the counter about the bar (they won't willingly tell you if you walk by looking lost), and if you're lucky enough to get a reservation, you'll be led to a secret staircase behind a fridge stacked with Modelo beers.  The bar itself is indescribably chic, with velvet booths and floating bookshelves that give it that members-only feel. It's clear from the jump that the spirits are the focus here—the menu is organized with text and images that walk you through the background of each spirit as well as the in
The sun will set after 8pm for the next three months in NYC

The sun will set after 8pm for the next three months in NYC

This winter and spring felt uncharacteristically cold and dreary, but we finally reached the light at the end of the tunnel—literally. That's because for the next three months, you won't have to worry about the sun setting until after 8pm across New York City. RECOMMENDED: Brooklyn Bridge Park announces its 15th anniversary summer programming calendar If you paid attention this weekend, you might have noticed that the sun was out until just after 8pm, a welcome sight we haven't experienced since August 2024—yes, it's been that long, and our vitamin D-deprived mental states have definitely noticed. From now until the summer solstice, the sunset will continue to get later and later. The latest time the sun will set will be at 8:31pm on June 21, before it starts setting earlier again. Don't worry, though: we'll still get late post-8pm sunsets until August 11. Luckily, we live in a city that offers dozens of activities during the summer that you can enjoy up until 8pm or (much) later. Whether you're looking for an outdoor bar to soak up the sunlight or want to enjoy one of the many outdoor summer festivals, now's the time to really start planning. Some other cool and free outdoor activities you can do this summer? Check out free Friday movie nights at the Intrepid Museum, which begins screening movies at sunset. There's also plenty of outdoor night markets—we recommend the Bronx Night Market and the emblematic Queens Night Market as good places to start. There's also Little Islan
Lorde announces ‘Ultrasound’ World Tour is coming to NYC—what you need to know

Lorde announces ‘Ultrasound’ World Tour is coming to NYC—what you need to know

Lorde made headlines two weeks ago when she made a surprise appearance at Washington Square Park to debut her newest single, "What Was That." Shortly after, the singer announced that her next album, Virgin, would be released on June 27, shocking fans who haven't heard much from the New Zealand-born superstar since 2021 (with the exception of her iconic collab with Charli XCX for Brat last year). If you grew up in the 2010s, then this is some major news—Lorde's music was the soundtrack of an entire generation of young millennials and zillenials, starting with the massive success of "Royals" in 2013, followed by her debut album Pure Heroine and, later, 2017's Melodrama.  This week, Lorde announced that Virgin will come with an accompanying world tour. Here's everything we know about the tour so far, including when the performer is planning to return to NYC for concert dates. RECOMMENDED: NYC's best summer music festivals of 2025 When is the Ultrasound world tour? Lorde's latest tour will kick off in North America this September. The first show will take place on September 17 at the Moody Center in Austin before continuing on to Chicago, Columbus, Boston and Philadelphia before arriving at Manhattan's own Madison Square Garden. What are the NYC dates? Lorde will be in New York for one night only! Her MSG concert will take place on Wednesday, October 1. When do tickets go on sale? Presale tickets will go live on Wednesday, May 14 at 10am Eastern Standard Time. You can go ahea
See inside The Travel Agency's trippy new dispensary in Soho

See inside The Travel Agency's trippy new dispensary in Soho

The Travel Agency has been one of our favorite dispensaries in the New York since it debuted in 2023—partially, because shopping at one of its locations can feel like stepping into a museum, and its expertly-curated inventory of cannabis and lifestyle products is second to none. If you're a newbie, don't worry—it has expert "budtenders" willing to help you sort through the weeds. Now, in addition to its much-loved locations across Union Square, Downtown Brooklyn and Fifth Avenue, the Travel Agency just opened a new store at 598 Broadway in the heart of Soho, and it's giving pure psychedelic vibes.  RECOMMENDED: See inside the new Gotham dispensary opening this month in Chelsea The newest Travel Agency pays homage to downtown artists and design by blending sculptural art, trippy architecture and functional cannabis pieces in a deeply immersive store. This particular location was designed in collaboration with several creative studios, including Leong Leong Architecture, which created the store's minimalist architecture; Big Heavy Studios, which made custom fabrications to display the store's products as if they were art in a gallery; and Breakfast Studio, which installed a kinetic data-driven art installation by artist Andrew Zolty.  The new store also includes a curated bong gallery featuring water pipes crafted by Milan-based artist Serena Confalonieri and Mexican sculptor Juan Manuel Carmona. Here's a sneak peek inside the new store. Photograph: courtesy The Travel Agency
Signal, a new nightclub in East Williamsburg, is opening this weekend

Signal, a new nightclub in East Williamsburg, is opening this weekend

Recently, most of the nightclub news we've been getting has been pretty somber—some of the most iconic late night spots have been closing, prompting some New Yorkers to wax poetic about our city’s dying culture.  But in the midst of it all, New York has trudged on, and new nightclubs are occasionally opening in place of the old ones. This weekend, a brand new spot, Signal, will throw its first official party in the heart of East Williamsburg, and it promises to be the next go-to spot to rage.  RECOMMENDED: Inside NYC's bustling dancehall scene that still lives on today Signal was founded by Joshua Buhler, Leonard Fink, and Nicholas Spector, who is also the founder of Golden Record NYC. The venue’s sound-first approach is reflected in its architecture, which features a floating wood floor beneath skylights and several features along its walls and ceiling to isolate and amplify sound. The club also features three sound systems, including a d&b Audiotechnik club system and separate high-fidelity systems from Genelec and Neptune Audio, if you want to get into the nitty-gritty. There will also be an outdoor garden and a bar that boasts natural wines, specialty cocktails, beers and zero-proof drinks. Unlike certain clubs in the area, which tend to align themselves with a specific sound and genre of music, Signal plans to run the gamut of dance music from around the world with a particular bent towards the city’s blossoming underground scene.  The venue will also offer food, with a
COQODAQ just opened a secret karaoke room you can book for wild parties

COQODAQ just opened a secret karaoke room you can book for wild parties

For the past year, COQODAQ has been the coolest clubstaurant in town—opened by the team behind the Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse COTE, it's known for its decadent fried chicken, DJ sets and hard-to-get reservations.  But there's a secret COQODAQ has been keeping from us: Go Go Sing Sing, a state of the art, soundproof karaoke room at the back of the restaurant—a hush-hush spot that for months hosted celebrity diners trying to keep it low-key. Now, it’s ready to open the karaoke room to the public. RECOMMENDED: This wildly creative Michelin-recognized taquería from Mexico City just landed in NYC This is not just any karaoke room—designed by the Rockwell Group, this luxurious 400-square-foot lounge boasts dual big-screen TVs, and a theater-lit stage so you can live out your pop-star fantasies. Mirroring the restaurant outside, the stage is framed by three tiers of illuminated arches and surrounded by three layers of Swarovski crystal drapery. From the karaoke room, you’ll be able to order drinks from the restaurant’s massive bar, which allegedly includes the largest champagne list in the U.S., as well as plenty of vintage wine options. The furniture is also giving full Gatsby fantasy: You’ll find banquettes in dark green leather, custom gold ottomans with tiered fringe, and antique mirrored cocktail tables that can be moved around to change the feel of the space. Whether you’re looking for a nightclub vibe, just want to belt out to your favorite classics, or would like to
This giant bronze statue of a woman was just installed in the middle of Times Square

This giant bronze statue of a woman was just installed in the middle of Times Square

If there was ever a reason to trek to Times Square, this is it: a massive, 12-foot tall bronze sculpture of a young woman by figurative artist Thomas J. Price was just installed in the area, on the north side of Duffy Square on Broadway and 46th Street facing 47th Street. It will be on display through June 17. The public art piece is part of a series called "Grounded in the Stars," which "confronts preconceived notions of identity and representation," according to Times Square's website.  RECOMMENDED: See inside "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," the Met's new spring exhibit Anchored by a wide base, the woman in Grounded with the Stars invites passersby to gawk and engage—standing in stark contrast to Duffy Square’s two other permanent statues, both of men. Unlike those, she wears everyday clothes, her stance a subtle nod to Michelangelo’s David. The statue of the woman was woven from observations, images and open calls that happened across New York, Los Angeles and London.  Alongside the massive sculpture, passerby should on the lookout for another work by Price, this one on display across the neighborhood's screens. "Man Series," stop-motion animations set to play on billboards nightly in May, also involves a sculptural installation that "foregrounds the intrinsic value of the individual and amplifies traditionally marginalized bodies on a monumental scale."  “Times Square stands as an iconic symbol and site of convergence, uniting people from all walks of life, individua
Here’s how we’re celebrating Mexican New Yorkers this week for Cinco de Mayo

Here’s how we’re celebrating Mexican New Yorkers this week for Cinco de Mayo

For too long, many have accepted Cinco de Mayo—and by extension, Mexican culture—as an excuse to down a few tequila shots. But for Mexicans, the holiday is more complicated: In the homeland, it’s only celebrated in the state of Puebla to commemorate the 19th-century victory a Mexican battalion won against the French army. The Mexican-American community took the holiday and gave it new meaning, using Cinco de Mayo a defiant occasion to celebrate and assert their rightful place in the United States.  Growing up, I saw a holiday that was supposed to celebrate Mexican-American identity as one that turned our culture into an opportunity to sell discounted margaritas. Don’t get us wrong, we love a good party (and occasionally, a great drink), but Mexican-Americans have a lot more to offer. To me, the power in New York’s Mexican community is that we’ve managed to find pride and joy in our heritage in spite of messaging about our communities being filled with drug dealers and currently, a criminal presence to be purged from our borders.  What most don’t realize is that you can’t get rid of us because we’re everywhere, even when you don’t realize it. There are more than 330,000 Mexicans in New York, and we all have a different story to tell. We’ve managed to break out of every box we’ve been placed in—Now, we’re just waiting for everyone else to notice.  Last year, we highlighted prominent New York Mexicans through our Cinco to Celebrate editorial package, in which we asserted the imp
The Brooklyn Mirage canceled its first show after failing to meet safety inspections

The Brooklyn Mirage canceled its first show after failing to meet safety inspections

For months, the Brooklyn Mirage has promoted its multi-million dollar renovation, promising brand-new screens, a massive decorative timber structure and dozens of additional speakers. But earlier this week, videos surfaced on social media showing the venue still appearing to be under construction—prompting skepticism from critics about whether it would be ready for its scheduled May 1 reopening. Turns out, the critics were right: just hours before it was supposed to host its sold-out event featuring DJ Sara Landry, the Brooklyn Mirage canceled the show and released a statement admitting it had not passed safety inspections in time.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out New York (@timeoutnewyork) RECOMMENDED: NYC's best summer music festivals of 2025 "We want to be clear: the venue is show ready and the New Mirage has been built to exacting safety, structural, mechanical and technical specifications," the venue wrote in an Instagram post. "However, we were not able to meet the final inspection deadline today." The hosts also promised all ticket holders a full refund. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Brooklyn Mirage (@brooklynmirage) Sara Landry, the DJ who was supposed to play the Mirage's opening night, posted a video expressing her frustration about the canceled shows. "We got this news an hour ago," she said in a video uploaded to her own Instagram page. "We are working incredibly hard to fin
All the free concerts and programs happening at Hudson Yards this summer

All the free concerts and programs happening at Hudson Yards this summer

Every summer, Hudson Yards hosts a slate of free community programs that undoubtedly turns even the biggest area skeptic into a curious wanderer—and for good reason: the lineup is usually great. This year, for example, Backyard at Hudson Yards presented by Wells Fargo is bringing outdoor fitness classes to the masses alongside Lululemon; hard-hitting concerts; kid-friendly activations; and even pet adoption days. Sure, the whole thing might be sponsored by a mega-bank, but your glutes won’t notice as you're getting that free workout in. Below, we highlight some of the most exciting offered programming: RECOMMENDED: NYC's best summer music festivals of 2025 For fitness-related programming, which will include pickleball and run clubs, you can check out Hudson Yard’s website. Here is a comprehensive list of this summer's programming. Concerts The free concerts will take place between June 25 and August 13 on the Wells Fargo Stage from 6pm until 8pm. June 25: Marc Scibilia July 2: The Knocks July 9: Cian Ducrot July 16: Paul Russell  July 23: Alex Sampson July 30: Brittney Spencer August 6: MXMTOON August 13: TBA Check for updates on concerts here.   Movies Movie nights will take place from 5pm to 7pm. May 9: Freaky Friday May 16: Wicked May 30: Ben and Jerry September 12: Grease September 19: Clueless September 26: Ferris Bueller's Day Off  October 3: Grown Ups October 10: Rent October 17: Legally Blonde October 24: Top Gun Maverick See the latest movie and sports schedule
Meet the mariachi using music to uplift New York's Mexican community

Meet the mariachi using music to uplift New York's Mexican community

If there's one mariachi you need to know in New York right now, it’s probably Alvaro Paulino Jr., a fifth generation New Yorker who has performed at weddings, funerals, quinceñeras and even divorce parties (the art form is versatile like that). Paulino has redefined what mariachis can aspire to by performing at monumental venues from Radio City to Madison Square Garden and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.  Now, as we enter an era in American history that has doubled down on its hostility towards immigrants, his mission has taken newfound importance: Not only to educate New Yorkers about the art form, but also to bring joy to New York’s Mexican community. RECOMMENDED: Here’s how we’re celebrating Mexican New Yorkers this week for Cinco de Mayo Paulino’s father migrated to the U.S. in the 1970s, where he became a mariachi pioneer on the East Coast at a time when you couldn’t so much as find jalapeños at a grocery store. When Paulino was growing up in Brooklyn, he was the only Mexican student at his school, and he’d attend picture days dressed in a full mariachi fit to represent the culture. Paulino wants people to understand that although mariachi is a form of entertainment, it’s also a creative outlet that blends indigenous, European and African musical traditions. Mariachi music often served as an emotional valve in Mexico’s smaller towns, where tradition prevented men from fully expressing their emotions. There’s a real weight to mariachi, and you don’t just wear a mariachi suit a