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Rebecca Fontana

Rebecca Fontana

Rebecca Fontana is Time Out's former New York Digital Content Director.

Articles (18)

How to get tickets to the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes

How to get tickets to the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes

Christmas Spectacular 2023 tickets will get you the full experience of Christmas in New York. This show has it all: a flying Santa, an incredibly ornate nativity scene and a new finale that uses drone technology. And don’t forget about the Rockettes in Wooden Soldier costumes and kick lines! It's one of the can't-miss NYC events in November and December, so here’s everything you need to know about snagging tickets to the most festive show of the season. (And don’t forget to take a photo under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree afterward.) RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the Christmas Spectacular When is the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes 2023? This year's Radio City Christmas Spectacular, officially known as The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, runs from November 17, 2023 through January 4, 2024. The show is performed from two to five times a day, with rotating companies of performers. Where is the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes 2023? The Christmas Spectacular is at Radio City Music Hall at Rockefeller Center. Take the B, D, F or M to 47th-50th Sts–Rockefeller Center or the 1 to 50th St. How do you get Christmas Spectacular tickets? Tickets are available for purchase on the Rockettes website. You can also buy tickets directly at the box office of Radio City Music Hall. How much are Christmas Spectacular tickets in 2023? Ticket prices vary widely depending on date, time and location. The current cost can b

48 hours in New York City

48 hours in New York City

Full disclosure: 48 hours is not nearly enough time to see New York City. But if all you have is one brief weekend in the greatest city in the world, you’ll have to jam-pack it with activities—and that’s where we come in. Though locals have been known to spend five hours at a boozy brunch on Sunday (no judgement), we also know how to book it around town and have the inside scoop on the lesser-known NYC attractions worth visiting instead of fighting through the Times Square crowds. From the best New York pizza joints to iconic art museums in NYC, we’ve compiled the spots you need to hit to get the full NYC experience in a minimal amount of time.

The 30 most-Instagrammable places in NYC

The 30 most-Instagrammable places in NYC

Need some Insta-piration? We found the most Instagrammable places in NYC—y'know, the spots locals are actually proud to post. These are the indispensable independent bookstores in NYC, the most beautiful NYC buildings and the Willy Wonka-esque baked goods your feed needs. Instead of the obvious, most-geotagged places in NYC (like Times Square and Central Park) we found what real New Yorkers are posting—down to the right angle. Read on to find NYC at its most Instagrammable and be prepared for all the likes!  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to New York attractions The Cyclone A post shared by don Von (@vgdvaldez) on Sep 30, 2017 at 8:12am PDT A new Second Avenue subway station A post shared by @sheridanc17 on Jan 19, 2017 at 8:10am PST The Guggenheim Museum rotunda A post shared by Gregorius Danang Prasetyanto (@gregorius) on Dec 12, 2017 at 9:06am PST Your friendly neighborhood bodega cat (231 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn) A post shared by stay TSUYOi (@muspaw) on Nov 20, 2017 at 11:24am PST The OY/YO sculpture at North 5th Street Pier A post shared by NadiOs // Nadia // NYC (@nadios.nyc) on Jul 16, 2017 at 9:21pm PDT Jump for Joy at the Museum of Sex A post shared by Skarlet Palma (@skarletpalma) on Nov 27, 2017 at 6:23pm PST A beer in sharper focus than the baseball game at Yankee Stadium A post shared by Smitten Life (@smittenlifeblog) on Apr 29, 2017 at 10:34am PDT A square slice at Emily A post shared by Alanna Meisner

Full list of 2018 Tony Awards winners

Full list of 2018 Tony Awards winners

Broadway’s biggest night has come to a close. The statuettes have been distributed and the red carpet rolled up, and all that’s left is to look at the winners of the awards show on Sunday, June 10, at Radio City Music Hall. We foretold a good night for The Band's Visit and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Did our Tony Awards predictions hit the mark? Were there any big surprises? Read on for the complete list of the 2018 Tony Award winners. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the Tony Awards BEST MUSICALThe Band’s VisitFrozenMean GirlsSpongeBob SquarePants BEST PLAY The Children (Lucy Kirkwood)Farinelli and the King (Claire Van Kampen)Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Jack Thorne)Junk (Ayad Akthar)Latin History for Morons (John Leguizamo) BEST REVIVAL OF A MUSICAL CarouselMy Fair LadyOnce On This Island BEST REVIVAL OF A PLAY Angels in America The Iceman Cometh Lobby HeroThree Tall Women Travesties BEST SCOREAngels in America (Adrian Sutton)The Band’s Visit (David Yazbek)Frozen (Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez)Mean Girls (Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin)SpongeBob SquarePants (various artists) BEST BOOK OF A MUSICALThe Band’s Visit (Itamar Moses)Frozen (Jennifer Lee)Mean Girls (Tina Fey)SpongeBob SquarePants (Kyle Jarrow) BEST ACTRESS IN A MUSICALLauren Ambrose, My Fair LadyHailey Kilgore, Once On This IslandLaChanze, Summer: The Donna Summer MusicalKatrina Lenk, The Band’s VisitTaylor Louderman, Mean GirlsJessie Mueller, Carousel BEST ACTOR IN A MUSICALHarry Hadden-Paton,

Eight Harry Potter experiences in NYC

Eight Harry Potter experiences in NYC

Whether or not you were able to score tickets to Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (our theater critic listed it as one of the best Broadway shows), NYC offers plenty of other ways to experience J.K. Rowling’s spellbinding stories. From museum tours at the best museums in NYC to bar specials a couple of the best bars in NYC, these are the top ways to get your Potter on.

The 10 hardest questions at Harry Potter trivia in NYC

The 10 hardest questions at Harry Potter trivia in NYC

Even if you think you know everything about Harry Potter, there are plenty of trivia nights in NYC that will prove you wrong. True fans know to go to the book-based trivia night, not the movie iteration (and forget about Harry Potter and the Cursed Child for now). They typically come with happy hours or prizes of free booze, but beware: The questions are not easy. To help you study, we stopped by one of Trivia A.D.’s monthly Harry Potter nights to ask die-hard fans what tricky questions stumped them. Does reading them feel like being hit with an IRL stupefy spell, or are you able to answer them as well as Hermione Granger would? See how you fare at Trivia A.D.’s next event—the full calendar of upcoming trivia nights is here.   The 10 hardest questions at Harry Potter trivia in NYC:   1. In what book was “Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw” a chapter? —Chelsea Wunderlich, 26, Astoria   2. What was the name of Aragog’s wife? —Nathaniel Leach, 27, Crown Heights   3. What kind of wood was Lily Potter’s wand made of? —Becca Rovenstine, 29, Harlem   4. What Quidditch team did Oliver Wood play for after graduating? —Tania Jachens, 27, Kips Bay   5. What were the titles of Dolores Umbridge’s two positions at the Ministry of Magic? —Austin Galiardi, 28, Sunnyside   6. Who was the Ravenclaw captain when Gryffindor beat them in the Quidditch Cup? —Nancy Yang, 26, Upper East Side   7. Name all the people and their houses who were sorted before Hermione Granger was. —Rachel Pacifico, 27, Up

The 10 most-Instagrammed places in NYC

The 10 most-Instagrammed places in NYC

And you thought it was going to be unicorn ice cream. The most-Instagrammed places of all time in NYC are a bit obvious, yes, but they’re the iconic city spots that everyone needs to visit at least once. Remember, there’s always new art to Instagram at the Met and new Broadway marquees in Times Square to pose beneath! And you get bonus likes for posting a photo of the Empire State Building when it’s lit up with a fashion show or whenever Central Park hosts an infamous Shakespeare in the Park show, and, admit it, whenever you post an insanely generic photo of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, it gets more likes than any witty, creative post you could think up. So check out the 10 most Instagrammed places in NYC: RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions 1. Times Square A post shared by Davron💯 (@b.davron7) on Dec 13, 2017 at 8:22am PST 2. Central Park A post shared by NYONair (@nyonair) on Dec 8, 2017 at 10:58am PST 3. Brooklyn Bridge A post shared by danielborcanelli (@danielborcanelli) on Dec 13, 2017 at 11:01am PST 4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art A post shared by J O H N N Y F R O S T (@johnny_frost) on Dec 13, 2017 at 10:55am PST 5. Empire State Building A post shared by Noel Y. C.🇵🇭🇺🇸 (@nyclovesnyc) on Nov 11, 2017 at 4:50am PST 6. Museum of Modern Art A post shared by Anni Jürgenson (@annijurgenson) on Dec 13, 2017 at 10:01am PST 7. Rockefeller Center  A post shared by Nathan Meredith

See 15 stunning hidden Christmas trees in NYC

See 15 stunning hidden Christmas trees in NYC

Yes, there are gorgeous Christmas trees in NYC that are not located at the Rockefeller Center. Did you know there's a tree shaped like a dinosaur? And a tree covered in oragami? And a tree covered in pizza emojis? We would also like to acknowledge that some of these are a little less hidden than others. (We know you already know about Lotte New York Palace because of Gossip Girl; don’t @ us.) We just wanted to offer alternatives to that big one amidst the crowds on Fifth Avenue. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Christmas in New York 1. The Roosevelt Hotel A post shared by Matt Wallace (@itsmattwallace) on Dec 6, 2017 at 7:31pm PST   2. Radio City Music Hall A post shared by Rebecca Axelsson (@rebccaaxelsson) on Dec 5, 2017 at 10:53am PST   3. American Museum of Natural History A post shared by Dwight CM (@dcmac03) on Dec 5, 2017 at 7:27am PST   4. American Museum of Natural History A post shared by Noa B (@neverstoppingnoa) on Dec 5, 2017 at 5:55am PST   5. Helmsley Building A post shared by Noel Y. C.🇵🇭🇺🇸 (@nyclovesnyc) on Dec 5, 2017 at 4:37am PST   6. Lotte New York Palace A post shared by Enan (@enan_photography) on Dec 5, 2017 at 3:28am PST   7. Central Park A post shared by Rosalie Quinto-Demigo (@mitzgami) on Dec 4, 2017 at 5:48pm PST   8. Abingdon Square Park A post shared by Tom M. (@thomasofnewyork) on Dec 4, 2017 at 1:51pm PST   9. Bloomberg Tower A post shared by Akshay Raje (

Leslie Odom Jr. talks about winning a Tony and if he’ll ever return to Hamilton

Leslie Odom Jr. talks about winning a Tony and if he’ll ever return to Hamilton

Leslie Odom Jr. will be called Aaron Burr, sir, for the rest of his life, but he’s okay with that. After a year of recreating the most devastating death in American history eight times a week, the star and narrator of Hamilton has left Broadway’s revolutionary and revelationary show to focus on music. While discussing his newly rereleased eponymous jazz album, he speaks methodically, pondering the wording of a Snapchat video with the gravitas of a founding father. He offers his bandmates coffee and asks permission before cursing. And yes, he slips Hamilton quotes into conversation. Both his performance and demeanor are understated in a way that contrasts, say, the non-stop hyperactivity of Hamilton writer and star Lin-Manuel Miranda. Before a free show at the Shops at Columbus Circle mall where he’ll croon multiple Nat King Cole songs and rap the song that won him best actor at the Tony Awards this year, “The Room Where It Happens,” he pauses and thoughtfully reconsiders his Snap again: “I might hate that video.” You only have one shot, sir. What do you identify more as right now, an actor or a musician?Music right now. The success of Hamilton makes it so that people really do say, “What do you want to do next?” We had opportunities to do theater, television and film, but music was what I wanted to pivot to. It’s a childhood dream; it was something that I was always doing on the side. So I’m grateful for the opportunity to put it at the center of what I do. Your self-titled a

The best movie posters of all time

The best movie posters of all time

The best movie posters of all time are instantly recognizable for their iconic imagery. No, they’re not the same as the best movies of all time—these aren’t judged on their comedic timing, insane action-movie chase scenes, dramatic plot twists or heart-wrenching love stories. These picks—from cheesy blockbuster summer movies to old classics that you’ve never seen—were chosen for one single badass image, whether it’s a shot of the title character or an iconic moment from the film. Seen on the walls of college dorms around the world, these are the best movie posters of all time.

The 50 coolest cheap wall art prints

The 50 coolest cheap wall art prints

You shouldn’t think of posters just as dorm-room home décor—you can find classy (and cheap!) wall art that will be a perfect fit for your grown-up NYC apartment. Inspired by the best paintings, classic movies and locals’ artwork, these 50 pieces of wall art would also make great gifts for artists—if you don’t take them all for yourself, of course.

What to see during the New York City Ballet Winter 2016 season

What to see during the New York City Ballet Winter 2016 season

The Nutcracker time may be over, but there are several more months of winter’s slush puddles, freezing temps and the New York City Ballet Winter 2016 season. The company is putting on dance shows ranging from Balanchine’s ballerina classics to contemporary choreography inspired by urban life. (Think: people rushing to catch the subway, but in satin tights.) The Winter 2016 season runs from January 19 to February 28, and these shows just may inspire you to grab a pair of slippers and head to a dance studio yourself. RECOMMENDED: Read more on the New York City Ballet

Listings and reviews (4)

One World Observatory | Manhattan, NY

One World Observatory | Manhattan, NY

Everything you need to know about visiting One World Observatory (285 Fulton St, New York, 10007). Not only does it have the trippiest elevator in the city, One World Observatory is also a fierce contender for best views in the city. Ride up to the 102nd floor surrounded by a VR-like film, then admire the 360-degree views at the top of the tower. Opened in 2015, the three-floor observation deck is a tourist attraction atop the offices below, but the sights truly are spectacular. Standing at 1,776 feet (see what they did there?), One World Trade Center is the tallest building in both New York City and the United States. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and $28 for children. See the sightsGawk at the entirety of Manhattan and the Empire State Building on one side and the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges on the other—and then Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty on the other. (There are 360-degree views, remember?) Sure, it’s a tourist attraction, but that doesn’t make the sights any less amazing, and you’ll want to spend hours playing eye spy with Times Square and Central Park. Head up first thing in the morning—it opens at 9am—to beat the afternoon rush, or be prepared to fights the crowds once sunset comes around. It stays open until 10pm, and yes, you should go back at night to get a completely different (but just as stunning) view. Watch your feetMake sure you hop onto the Sky Portal, a 14-foot glass circle that’s easy to miss on your first pass

Central Park | Manhattan, NY

Central Park | Manhattan, NY

4 out of 5 stars

Everything you need to know about visiting Central Park (59th St to 110th St, NY 10023). Central Park has it all: 843 acres. Nearly 40 million annual visitors. Twenty-nine sculptures. More than 25,000 trees. The massive National Historic Landmark is located smack-dab in the middle of Manhattan, and it is home to everything from an ice-skating rink to a swimming pool and hosts events like the New York City Marathon and outdoor SummerStage concerts. You could spend days in the park without seeing everything, and it’s open year-round with activities for every season. We could go on—we haven’t even mentioned Belvedere Castle or the Metropolitan Museum of Art yet—but you should really just go see it for yourself. RECOMMENDED: 101 best things do in NYC Spend the day on the waterLocated on the shore of The Lake at 72nd Street, the picturesque Loeb Boathouse near the equally iconic Bethesda Fountain has been the setting of plenty of NYC movies, and for good reason. But it’s not just a pretty place: There are water sports right there in the middle of Manhattan. Head there to rent a rowboat or take a gondola tour, or just sit at the outdoor bar and sip a cocktail while watching everyone else struggle with their oars. See a show at sunsetYes, Shakespeare in the Park is found in this park. The essential free outdoor show is having a prolific 2017, with the much-discussed Julius Caesar and A Midsummer Night’s Dream in July. Yes, you have to line up at the crack of dawn to get tickets to

Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society | Bronx, NY

Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society | Bronx, NY

  Located in the Bronx, NY, this massive attraction is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. Spanning 265 acres, it has numerous exhibits, forests, outdoor activities and restaurants. Oh, and don’t forget about the 5,000-plus animals! There are lions and tigers and bears (both grizzly and polar), all residing in naturalistic exhibits. You can easily spend hours walking the tree-shrouded trails past exhibits named after continents (African Plains) or taxonomic class (World of Reptiles). The zoo also has premium exhibits for an additional fee, such as the Wild Asia Monorail and the Bug Carousel, but the sea lion feeding is completely free and highly recommended. RECOMMENDED: 50 best New York attractions Get buzzed at the zooThe Bronx Zoo finally began hosting Brew at the Zoo events in 2016, and it’s already one of our favorite times to go to the zoo. At this after-hours party, the grounds are free of pesky children, and it’s your rare chance to see the zoo at night (especially now that the World of Darkness has closed). More than 40 vendors offer unlimited beer samples, and there are food trucks, live music and a monkey house turned VIP lounge. Fly over the river on a zip lineA brand-new attraction opening in 2017, the Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure and Nature Trek lets you act like an animal yourself. Climb through the trees and soar for 400 feet over the Bronx River on a 50-foot-high zip line. Though the Treetop Adventure is a premium exhibit, the Nature Trek is free with

Yefsi Estiatorio

Yefsi Estiatorio

3 out of 5 stars

Though the standard wine-bottles-and-candles decor of Yefsi Estiatorio doesn’t immediately convey the Upper East Side restaurant’s Greek heritage, once the food arrives, you’ll know. Hailing from Cyprus, chef Christos Christou (Molyvos) taps into that upbringing in a menu of traditionally-minded Mediterranean fare. The backyard and sidewalk seating area are overflowing during peak dinner hours, so opt for the expansive, 70-seat dining room, which feels full but not crowded.For appetizers, the star of the Feta Sto Fourno ($11) sanwdich was unsurprisingly the generous slab of creamy feta cheese. An underlying layer tomato wasn't nearly as fresh, failing to brighten up the richness of the cheese-and-eggplant sandwich. The zucchini and eggplant Yefsi Chips ($16) were deliciously crisp and crunchy, but they could’ve used double the dollop of tzatzkiki sauce with chunks of cucumber—this was quickly supplied upon request. On the entree front, the heaping portion of grilled wild salmon Solomos ($25) was offset by a soft bed of leek rice pilaf. The roasted chicken Biologico Kotopoulo ($25) was seasoned evenly with an array of fragrant Greek herbs, and the accompanying potatoes smacked nicely of lemon. Both dishes paired well with our server's recommendation of an earthy, berry-hinted 2014 Gravelly Ford Pinot Noir ($10). The house take on baklava ($8) is a must-order for dessert. Here, the phyllo dough layered with crushed walnuts and honey is a bit more sticky than flaky, but there’s

News (836)

See 11 unbelievable photos of Hurricane Sandy for its fourth anniversary

See 11 unbelievable photos of Hurricane Sandy for its fourth anniversary

On October 29, 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit NYC. The superstorm devastated beaches, shut down all flights, subways and buses, and knocked out the power in half of Manhattan. Four years later, we haven’t seen a storm that big in the city. (But Tropical Storm Hermine and Hurricane Matthew made us nervous for a second.) And though New Yorkers banded together to stand strong and stock up on supplies from Duane Reade, Sandy’s influence still rages on: The 18-month L train shutdown is to repair hurricane damage. Still, look back at these 11 photos and see how much has already been done.     MTA New York City Transit/Leonard Wiggins" data-width-class="" /> Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/MTA New York City Transit/Leonard Wiggins                 The devastation left by Super Storm Sandy at Breezy Point, Queens Photograph: Dan Callister/REX/Shutterstock                   Manhattan street after the storm Photograph: James D. Morgan/REX/Shutterstock                   The devastation left by Super Storm Sandy at Breezy Point, Queens Photograph: Dan Callister/REX/Shutterstock               New Yorkers walk their dogs beneath the Brooklyn Bridge as Hurricane Sandy advances on New York Photograph: Lennihan/AP/REX/Shutterstock                   Flooding in Sheepshead Bay Photograph: Shutterstock                   Flooding on a Manhattan street Photograph: Shutterstock             Timothy Krause" data-width-class="" />   Flooded Wall Street Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/Timothy Kra

Get a massive three-liter tower of margaritas at an NYC restaurant

Get a massive three-liter tower of margaritas at an NYC restaurant

Don’t try to finish this alone—you will definitely need to bring along a few pals to attempt to drink this insane margarita tower.  Mad Dog & Beans has two locations, one in midtown and one in FiDi, and both offer a three-liter serving of margaritas. The tower at the Mexican restaurant serves approximately 10 glasses worth of margs, and it costs $110. The beverage is made with fresh-squeezed citrus fruits and tequila, of course, and you can customize the cocktails with one of nine flavors.  The flavors are made with fresh fruit (not syrup) and include blood orange, blackberry, coconut, raspberry, guava, mango, passion fruit, pomegranate, strawberry and spicy serrano. That neon hue you see above? That’s the Electric Blue flavor, made with Blue Curacao. Each flavor costs an extra $10, and you’re welcome to add more than one to mix and match.  Listen, it may not be one of the absolute best margaritas in the city, but it certainly knows how to prioritize quantity over quality. And when it comes to tequila, sometimes that’s exactly what you want.  Sign up to receive great Time Out deals in your inbox each day.​

Naked Shakespeare in the Park returns with a mixed-gender performance this summer

Naked Shakespeare in the Park returns with a mixed-gender performance this summer

Naked Shakespeare in the Park is back! We can exclusively reveal that the Bard’s tales are being swapped out for a different playwright’s work, though: The Rover.  The play will run from August 16 to 26, and it will be the first mixed-gender production from Torn Out Theater. The company was also responsible for prior nude performances including the all-male rendition of Hamlet and all-female production of The Tempest. The Rover, by 17th-century female playwright Aphra Behn, is set during Carnival in Italy, with the cast wearing Sleep No More–esque masks to indulge in a few days of revelry.  The production will be held at the Music Pagoda in Prospect Park, and tickets are not available in advance for the free production. Seating is first come, first served, so plan to arrive about 30 minutes early. There are chairs to rent, and lawn seating is free. The show will begin at 5:30pm on August 16,17, 23 and 24; it will be at 2pm on August 18, 19, 25 and 26.  The cast for the show has not yet been announced, but director Pitr Strait shares some details: “Our past shows have aimed to use nudity in non-sexual contexts, but The Rover is a play about sexual freedom and romantic relationships. Our production will still show nudity in non-sexual ways,” he adds, "with an exploration of the way that we do sexualize each others’ bodies.”  Want to see the best musical theater in New York? Get tickets to upcoming Broadway shows.

The most adorable costumes at the Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade

The most adorable costumes at the Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade

It’s the cutest parade of the year! Last Saturday, The Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade took place in New York, filling the East Village park with dozens and dozens of puppies in their finest costumes. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Halloween in NYC There was a dog dressed a peacock. There was a dog playing a guitar. There was a dog dressed as a penguin complete with his humans dressed as Mary Poppins and Bert. There were multiple dogs dressed as hot dogs. Yes, there was an award for Best in Show, but we think all these guys were winners. After you’ve been inspired by these adorable pooches, start planning your own costume for the Village Halloween Parade on October 31.                      Photographs: Kelsey Dubinsky Sign up to receive great Time Out deals in your inbox each day.​

Get tickets to the magical Harry Potter exhibit coming to NYC this year

Get tickets to the magical Harry Potter exhibit coming to NYC this year

Wands and credit cards at the ready! We’ve been eagerly anticipating the upcoming Harry Potter exhibit at the New-York Historical Society for months now, and we finally have official dates and ticket information to share. The exhibit is titled Harry Potter: A History of Magic, and it will be on display in NYC from October 5 through January 27, 2019. Members of the New-York Historical Society can reserve tickets on February 14 starting at noon. Everyone else has to wait until April for general public tickets, so yeah, you should sign up here to become a member right about now. The exhibit lets you channel your inner Hermione and pore over rare books and manuscripts, including drafts by J.K. Rowling and sketches by illustrators Mary GrandPré and Jim Kay, on display for the very first time. You can also study the same subjects taught at Hogwarts, from Alchemy to Arithmancy to Herbology. (We’re sure you’d get a O in Muggle Studies.) The exhibit also includes historical artifacts related to magic—the philosopher's stone dates back to Ancient Greece in real life, long before Voldemort got his hands on it. (Or Quirrell got his hands on it, if we’re speaking literally.) The exhibit isn’t the only thing making it a big year for Potterheads: The 20th anniversary of the publication Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone in the U.S. is on September 1. It will be preceded by the Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, which begins previews in March and opens on April 22.

A sweltering heat wave is coming to NYC this weekend

A sweltering heat wave is coming to NYC this weekend

Remember last week, when we lamented the record-high temperatures of 92 degrees on June 18? That was cute.  This weekend, temps are expected to exceed that, with a high of 91 degrees on Saturday and 98 degrees on Sunday. The stretch between 1 and 4pm on Saturday will be the worst of the day, and by noon on Sunday, the forecast reaches 95 degrees that will feel like 106 degrees (with a zero percent chance of precipitation, naturally). How soon we forget the bomb cyclone, which actually sounds really nice right about now.  There’s even a heat advisory in effect from the National Weather Service, calling for extreme caution and recommending using air conditioning from noon to 9pm on Saturday. You know how in the Revolutionary Era, early settlers in NYC used to decamp from the former capital during the summer so they wouldn’t die of heat stroke (or cholera or polio) in the unventilated city? This weekend, we would once again highly suggest a weekend getaway.  If you are determined to remain in NYC, the parks, beaches and venues that are overenthusiastic with their AC are sure to be popular. We'll forgive you for wearing flip-flops in NYC just this once. And luckily, the thermostat will drop down to the 80s by Monday and stay there for the rest of the week, right in time to watch the 4th of July fireworks outdoors without dissolving into a puddle of sweat.  Subscribe for just $25 and enjoy an entire year of Time Out New York.

NYC’s first LGBTQ monument opens in Hudson River Park on Sunday

NYC’s first LGBTQ monument opens in Hudson River Park on Sunday

Right in time for the Pride March, NYC is finally getting its first monument honoring the LGBTQ community. Yes, this seems long overdue, but just remember that Central Park still does not have a statue honoring women, for a little perspective.  RECOMMENDED: Full coverage of Gay Pride in NYC The LGBTQ memorial will be found in Hudson River Park and consists of a circle of nine boulders made of steel that are outfitted with slices of prismatic glass that will reflect rainbows onto the lawn. It’s reminiscent of Stonehenge or Easter Island, but just like the giant boulders in Central Park, you’re allowed to sit on these.   The artwork was announced last June by Governor Andrew Cuomo, and it was designed by Brooklyn artist Anthony Goicolea. “This stunning design complements the landscape and communicates a timeless message of inclusion,” Cuomo said in a statement. “This monument will serve as an enduring symbol of the role New Yorkers play in building a fairer, more just world.” And on Sunday, June 24, at 8am, it will finally open to the public.   The site will be located in the park beyond the West Side Highway between Bethune and West 12th Streets. If you want to go visit on Sunday, the new monument is less than a mile from the new starting spot of the Pride March route, at 16th Street and 7th Avenue. It’s also a few blocks away from Stonewall Inn, which became a national landmark itself in 2016.  Subscribe for just $25 and enjoy an entire year of Time Out New York.

See free Broadway performances in Bryant Park this summer

See free Broadway performances in Bryant Park this summer

You heard us: We said free Broadway, and yes, it includes a whole slew of the buzziest new Tony Award winners.  106.7 LITE FM's Broadway in Bryant Park returns on July 12 with free outdoor theater performances on Thursdays for the following six weeks. Some of the biggest stars on Broadway and Off Broadway right now will perform lunchtime numbers in the green space from 12:30 to 1:30pm. And did we mention it’s free?  The lawn opens for seating at 11am, and we recommend getting there on the earlier side to snag a seat, since it’s first come, first served. If you want to know what to expect, check out our videos of last year’s shows. This year, you’ll be able to see scenes from the dark horse of the Tonys, The Band’s Visit, as well as tunes by the cast of SpongeBob SquarePants. And if you’ve ever wanted to hear the hit songs from Frozen in the sweltering summer heat, you’re in luck.  Here’s the full lineup of Broadway shows performing, and if see anything you like, you can find tickets to the best Broadway shows right here!  Thursday, July 12, 12:30pm ChicagoSpongeBob SquarePantsStompWaitress Thursday, July 19, 12:30pm AnastasiaBeautifulDesperate MeasuresOn A Clear Day You Can See Forever  Thursday, July 26, 12:30pm Come From AwayKinky BootsThe Band’s VisitFriends! The Musical Parody Thursday, August 2, 12:30pm AladdinFrozenThe Lion King  Thursday, August 9, 12:30pm Avenue QJersey BoysSmokey Joe's Cafe Summer: The Donna Summer Musical Thursday, August 16, 12:30pm Once On This Is

Watch your favorite Broadway stars perform in Bryant Park this summer

Watch your favorite Broadway stars perform in Bryant Park this summer

It’s not too late to catch a performance at one of the best things to do in the summer in NYC: Broadway in Bryant Park. The free outdoor festival is currently running on Thursdays during lunchtime, and it’s the perfect opportunity to see the best Broadway musicals without shelling out a ton of cash. You still have three more weeks to see the stars of shows including The Great Comet and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory sing their hearts out outdoors at the the series presented by 106.7 Lite fm. Shows start at 12:30pm and last about an hour, so head over to the midtown park on your lunch break.  Oh, and if you missed the performances of the past two weeks, we got you. Unlike at a real Broadway show, social media is totally acceptable at these shows, so ‘gram away and check out videos of the best acts below. Waitress 'Cause yesterday was hot as hell, but sweet as pie. 💕👩🏼‍🍳 #waitressmusical #broadwayinbryantpark @bwolfepack @officialbroadwayworld @drewgehling @waitressmusical #prettygoodbadidea A post shared by Vivi Simões (@vivisimoesc) on Jul 21, 2017 at 7:03pm PDT     Wicked Spamilton Watch @SpamiltonLive poke fun at @Lin_Manuel at #BroadwayinBryantPark pic.twitter.com/a9mHFLhRwN — TKTS (@TKTS) July 20, 2017

The three things you need to know today in New York: Tue June 19

The three things you need to know today in New York: Tue June 19

1. A market featuring refugee vendors arrives in Times Square today. It’s only there for the one evening, from 5 to 8pm.  2. Starting today, the Guggenheim Museum will stay open late on Tuesdays. Head there until 9pm through September 11. 3. Go meet the cast of Netflix’s Queer Eye at the 92nd Street Y today. The five stars will all be there to discuss their hit show.  For more events, check in with Time Out throughout the day.

An exhibit of rare Marilyn Monroe photos is coming to NYC this month

An exhibit of rare Marilyn Monroe photos is coming to NYC this month

  “Flirtacious” 1962 Photograph: Bert Stern Happy birthday to Marilyn! To celebrate the late icon's birthday month, a gallery in Nolita is presenting a photography exhibit of rare images taken throughout her lifetime.  The collection will arrive at Pop International Galleries at 195 Bowery on June 21, with a free opening event from 7 to 9pm that evening. To score a spot at the opening night event, just email MarilynMonroeRSVP@popinternational.com.  Monroe is a staple in pop art in NYC, but this particular exhibit goes beyond the bright primary colors of Andy Warhol. The photos on display include both color and black-and-white works from seven different photographers. Most of them are hand-signed by the photogs, who include Bert Stern, George Barris and Laslow Willinger. One of the oldest ones on display is from 1945, taken by William Carroll, back when Monroe was known as Norma Jean. (She began going by Marilyn Monroe in 1946 and legally changed her name in 1956.) There’s also a topless photo of Monroe, accurately titled “Not Bad For 36." Check out some of the retro images from the photography exhibit below:      “Norma Jean” 1945, printed 2010 Photograph: William Carroll       “Norma Jean” 1945, printed 2010 Photograph: William Carroll       From The Last Photos 1962, printed In 1987 Photograph: George Barris       “Glamour Shot” 1949 Photograph: Laslow Willinger       “ Not Bad For 36" 1962 Photograph: Bert Stern   If the images inspire you to pursue photography

The three things you need to know today in New York: Mon June 18

The three things you need to know today in New York: Mon June 18

1. New restaurant Chicha is a photogenic paradise. Head to the spot in Bushwick for Nicaraguan street food. 2. All month, get Pride-themed food and drink specials in New York. The ones from Shake Shack and Baked By Melissa benefit the LGBT community.  3. This week is your last chance to see Three Tall Women on Broadway. The show starring Tony-winner Glenda Jackson closes on June 24. For more events, check in with Time Out throughout the day.