Yesterday’s shake rattle ‘n roll, was quite the experience, not to be outdone by the upcoming eclipse. Check out the best places to watch it.  If you like men in kilts, just head to Sixth Avenue today for the Tartan Day Parade.  The Antiquarian Book Fair at the Armory is a book lover’s delight. There’s a nostalgic exhibit coming to the New York Historical Society — “Lost New York.” Our Renewal Summit is around the corner, and you do not want to miss this fun and informative day. Our Broadway Babe has some fabulous musical theater finds. And our roving photographer takes over the Williamsburg Bridge.

Early Bird Registration Extended for Renewal Summit

We have an incredibly exciting line up of panels, speakers, and exhibitors for our upcoming Renewal Summit that will inspire all of us. And if you sign up by April 15, you will be entered to win a 5-star vacation to Antigua. GET THE DETAILS.

NYC Tartan Week

The largest annual Scottish cultural gathering in NYC, culminates today with the Tartan Day Parade up Sixth Avenue between 44th & 55th Streets starting at 2 PM. There will be over 1500 bagpipers, Highland dancers, Scottish clan members, Celtic Canines, and more. The final event is free, tomorrow at Bryant Park.

Head to Bryant Park with a commemoration of the 26th Anniversary of National Tartan Day in words and music – with Readings from Senate Resolution & Presidential Decrees Excerpts from the Declaration of Arbroath. Get the details.

Where to Watch the Eclipse

Prepare to witness the celestial spectacle of the year on Monday.  A total solar eclipse will grace the skies, casting its shadow across North America. However, in the NYC area, we will only see a partial eclipse. But still, it’s a rare event and the next one isn’t until 2044. 6 Sq Ft has a list of the best places to watch it, like the Edge at Hudson Yards. Check out their suggestions.

 Now to April 7. The Antiquarian Book Fair is Back

Head to the historic Park Avenue Armory for an unparalleled gathering of international exhibitors showcasing a vast array of rare books, maps, manuscripts, fine bindings, and artistic wonders. Celebrating over 60 years of tradition, the Antiquarian Book Fair offers treasures from every corner of culture and time. Don’t miss this annual celebration of the past, present, and future of our collective written heritage!  GET TICKETS.

Park Avenue Armory | 643 Park Avenue, New York | Between 66/67 Streets

History of The Armory.  55,000 square foot drill hall, reminiscent of the original Grand Central Depot and the great train sheds of Europe, remains one of the largest unobstructed spaces of its kind in New York. A marvel of engineering in its time, it was designed by Regiment veteran and architect Charles W. Clinton, later a partner of Clinton & Russell, architects of the Apthorp Apartments and the famed, now demolished, Astor Hotel.

Broadway Babe’s Picks: Broadway Performances

Our Broadway babe, Randie Levine-Miller has come up with some musical theater finds, Including: The Actors Fund benefit performance of a concert of the musical within the musical, “Smash” about Marilyn Monroe; Found some old clips of the original stars of “On a Clear Day, You Can See Forever” performing; video following the delightful Kristen Chenoweth, as she performs and interacts with friends and colleagues; as well as leading opera stars in concert performing songs from Broadway musicals. WATCH THE VIDEOS.

Roving In Williamsburg

Our roving photographer, Nicole Freezer Rubens writes: 

On Saturday I walked over the Williamsburg Bridge and leisurely strolled around. I have been doing this regularly over the last 15 years, witnessing the transition into what Williamsburg is today. I recently learned the city was annexed by Brooklyn in 1855 and the spelling was altered from Williamsburgh.

Much of the charm from when the “h” was in use, has disappeared and Williamsburg is a perfect example, for better or for worse of grand slow and steady gentrification. Thankfully I still see some of the grittiness that always draws me in, and that is what I share with you.

The bridge continues to be covered in graffiti, and the noise of the constant subway cars rattle me as they speed by. There are an abundance of resale shops and flea markets where one can wander around and find the nostalgia, they didn’t know they missed, and they can live sustainably. Laundromats are functional and social places, as are the pubs and their live music. The mix of old and new abounds in the architecture, signage and eateries.

Each time I take this journey over the East River, I revisit my favorite places and always find something new. It’s very clear to me why so many young people are drawn to Williamsburg. I look forward to seeing what happens to this iconic neighborhood down the road, at the other end of the busy bridge.

~Nicole Freezer Rubens is the author of poetry/photo book, “The Long Pause and the Short Breath.” Follow her on https://www.instagram.com/nfrconsult/

April 19-Sept. 29. Lost New York

Embark on a nostalgic journey through the “Lost New York” exhibit at the New-York Historical Society, where the city’s vanished landmarks are resurrected through a poignant collection of over 90 historical items. Visitors can traverse the echoes of the original Penn Station, the grandeur of the Hippodrome Theatre, and the vibrant spirit of Keith Haring’s Pop Shop.

This immersive experience is enriched by personal accounts that breathe life into these relics, offering a window into the city’s dynamic evolution and the significance of preserving our ephemeral history. GET THE DETAILS.