Grown Up NYC Festivals in October

I know as a parent, come October all we parents usually think about is Halloween for our kids.  The sudden urgency to find that one costume at a good price overwhelms everything.  This year, I will be on a mission for a Super Why Costume, which, of course, happens to be every 3-5 year old’s dream outfit.

But this year, I will also be having some fun, without the kids, because dangit, I deserve it!

I have slowly been creating a little list of fun stuff going on in NYC in the month of October, and I thought I would share it with you a bit early so that you can start scheduling that babysitter/mother-in-law/sister/whomever to watch the kiddos.  And if you don’t have kids, than, well, I just made your simple life that much simpler!

New York Film Festival: September 25 to October 11

The festival, taking place in the new structures of the New York Film Society building on Broadway and 65th St. is an exciting one.  Showcasing many wonderful films from American Indies to Religious Interests to films highlighting female directors, there is bound to be something there for you.  And with the option of $10 Rush Tickets, you might be able to have enough to enjoy a cocktail before the movie right there in their cafe area.

Hip-Hop Theater Festival: October 1 to October 18

Bringing new life to theater through Hip Hop, the Hip Hop Theater Festival group hopes to also bring younger audiences in the world of theater and art. The festival will be presenting American and international artists “whose work addresses the issues relevant to the Hip-Hop generation; and serving young, urban communities through outreach and education that celebrates contemporary language and culture”.

Through their Arts Cultivation and Education Program, they also aim to use their accumulated talent and resources from our support to build a year-round education program that will serve New York Public School systems.

New York Underground Comedy Festival: October 2 to October 11

This venture started in 2003 in the West Bank Cafe Theater here in NYC and within those 5 years that have led to now, they have show cased talent from Chris Rock to Josh Homer (2007 Emerging Comic winner).  Comedians from all over the world come to perform during this festival.

But this festival isn’t just about funny business, it is also about helping others needing a good laugh.  From homeless shelters to hospitals, they’ve been there providing some much needed comical relief.

So check them out and book a night or two.  You have 10 Comedy filled nights to choose from, with both up and coming and established comedians putting their best, or should I say, funniest foot forward for industry professionals and those of us who enjoy a good laugh.

Food Network New York City Wine and Food Festival: October 9- October 12

Finally, after being in other places for the past few years since 2002, festival organizer and creator, Lee Brian Schrager is coming to the restaurant capital of the world and hosting this weekend long festival.

Ok, ok.  You could bring your kids to this one, but if you don’t have to you might be able to navigate through the crowds faster!

They will be taking over the Meatpacking District and select landmark settings such as the DUMBO section of Brooklyn, seamlessly integrate into the pace and lifestyle of the city. This year’s talents include Rachael Ray, Paula Deen, Giada De Laurentiis, Tyler Florence, Alton Brown, Masaharu Morimoto, Guy Fieri, Bobby Flay, Ferran Adria, Patrick & Gina Neely, Alain Ducasse, Gordon Ramsey and Nigella Lawson to name a few.

Bookmark their site, because tickets are not yet up for sale, however, they have posted their schedule and it is Delicioso!

The New Yorker Festival: October 16-October 18

This is New York City at its finest…if you are the literary arts type of course.  But, if if you are not as hard core as most New Yorker fanatics tend to be, there is still something set up that will make you giggle like a school girl (yes, even if you’re actually a grown man).  What does me in?  Well, when I see names like Stanley Tucci, I gasp (love him).  Or how about the ever sassy, ever outspoken Rachel Maddow?  Or Matt Weiner, creator of Mad Men?  See?  You are so totally drooling now, aren’t you?  I know…here’s a tissue.

In the meantime, take note: tickets go on sale TODAY, Friday the 18th at 12PM…but you also have a chance to enter and win, plus get more info about the festival on their site here.

CMJ Music Marathon and Film Festival: October 20 to October 24

A one-of-a-kind marathon, the CMJ Music Marathon and Film Festival will be 5 days and night of music and film, exhibiting over 1,200 artists at NYU’s Village campus. other events include exclusive parties, fairs, exhibits, panels, mentoring sessions, and more!

My list is a little short for now, and yes, I will eventually share with you all the going ons for kids in October as well, but I think this is a good start.  At least I hope it is!

So try to leave the kids at home, get your tickets, drink some wine, and enjoy yourself.  It’s Fall in New York City!

Photo credit: Piotr Bizior on stock.xchng

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