1. New York City Parks
One of the most beloved Labor Day events in New York is the annual Carnival
held in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The main event is the West Indian Day
parade with around three million participants. Held on the Eastern
Parkway, the day-long march is one big colorful party with crazy costumes,
nonstop music, and Caribbean eats.
Since Labor Day weekend of 2009, the Electric Zoo has been one of NYC's
largest music festival. Some top names in electronic music that have
performed at the 3-day festival include Above & Beyond, Armin Van
Buuren, and Zedd. The festival is held at Randall Island Park centrally
located in New York City along the East River. Amenities at the festival
include an open bar, shaded seating area, and locked cell phone charging
stations.
2. Rockaway Beach
September is a good time to squeeze in a beach trip before the end of the
season, and the perfect place is Rockaway Beach. Located on the Rockaway
Peninsula in Queens, this is one of the quieter beaches and known for good
waves and surfing. Play along the surf, walk the boardwalk and relax during
the last warm days of summer.
3. Governors Island
This former military quarters in New York Harbor has been turned into a
park, and September is the last month of the season you can go there. It's
a pleasant place to spend a day in September, a good place to gaze on Lady
Liberty in the distance.
Rent a bike and explore old military sites, and check out the hammocks to
loll around in at Hammock Grove. You will find lots of food and drink
options on the island. Catch the ferry to the island from 10 South Street.
4. San Gennaro Festivals
This is a lively festival that takes place on the streets of Little Italy
for 10 days around mid-September. It's a very old festival, and the crowds
are loyal. Play carnival games and sample delicacies like deep fried Oreos,
sausage and pepper sandwiches, and tasty Italian treats. Look for the
Gennaro Festival on Mulberry Street between Canal and Houston Streets.
5. 9/11 Museum and Memorial Sites
Take some time to pay tribute to the strength and resilience of New
Yorkers. Visit the 9/11 Museum and Memorial site. The atmosphere here is
sad yet special. Keep in mind that the purpose of the museum is to
recognize and honor triumph over human corruption. On September 11th, the
Tribute in Light is lit after the sun goes down. The illumination takes
place near where the Twin Towers once stood. Many people around the
neighborhood light candles. It is a touching, solemn sight.
6. Oktoberfests
This popular event is so beloved New Yorkers can't wait to get started.
Hence the official beginning of Octoberfest is near the end of September.
The idea is, well maybe to make the most of September weather, but it could
be people just can't wait to sample all the best beers in NYC along with
plenty of traditional German dishes. Look for celebrations all around the
city from the best beer gardens to the parks with trees tinged in autumn
color.