Things to Do in New York in May

Many popular sightseeing destinations and events in New York like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building are available to visit year-round. Other attractions, like the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center or the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade are time honored traditions which one can only see a certain time of the year. If you plan on visiting New York in May, there are a handful of events that are held during this month worth adding to your itinerary.
Tribeca Film Festival

The Tribeca Film Festival usually runs from late April into early May. Founded in 2002 by Hollywood heavy Robert DeNiro and friends, the festival has grown to the point where it fills the artsy neighborhood of Tribeca and spills over into other neighboring areas in Manhattan.

The festival attracts new films from some of the most exciting established, as well as up and coming, filmmakers and stars. In addition to movie screenings, the Tribeca Film Festival features concerts, special events, star-studded parties and a family street fair

Fleet Week

Taking place the week leading up to Memorial Day, Fleet Week is New York City's way to honor the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The event brings together everyone from sailors and Marines to military enthusiasts and grateful Americans. Visitors can get tours of some impressive ships docked in New York Harbor, and celebrate Memorial Day with a rendition of "Taps" followed by an aircraft flyover.

International Restaurant Week

May 1-10 is when New York celebrates International Restaurant Week. Each year 12 restaurants which receive top ratings by reviewer Zagat are selected. Each restaurant selected represents a distinct country's cuisine. Those who make reservations in time to this popular event will get to eat from a menu different from that restaurant's usual offerings, get behind-the-scenes kitchen tours, and even some complimentary food tasting.

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Based in Charlotte, N.C., Virginia Franco has more than 15 years experience freelance writing. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the education magazine "My School Rocks" and Work.com. Franco has a master's degree in social work with an emphasis in health care from the University of Maryland and a journalism degree from the University of Richmond.