It’s time again to mark your calendars so you don’t miss out on some of the best events this city has to offer.  This is by no means a comprehensive list but covers some of my favorites, including a few free activities!

This year’s Sustainable Seafood Week NYC runs from May 6-11.  There are lots of events around town to attend, as well as partnering restaurants.  (Unfortunately, I’ll be out of town this year, and will be eating sustainable seafood in Florida instead.)

The Manhattan Cocktail Classic take place May 9-13.  Lots of events are sold out, but there are still tickets available for a number of interesting happenings, especially those at Astor Center.

The NY/NJ Baykeeper’s Third Annual Oyster Benefit is Thursday, June 5 from 6-9pm at the Scandinavia House.  Tickets are a little pricey at $150, but it’s a charitable deduction for a good cause and a fun time.

Montauk Oyster at last year’s event

Governors Ball Music Festival is happening June 6-8 with Outkast, Jack White & Vampire Weekend headlining.  Tickets are on sale now.  I’m still trying to sort out when I can make it, but definitely going at least one day.

Coincidentally, that same weekend it’s also the Big Apple BBQ Block Party (June 7-8) in Madison Square Park.

Hot BBQ in the City

Then there’s Central Park SummerStage.  On June 30, Counting Crows and Toad the Wet Sprocket are playing.  Too bad I’ll be in Paris and miss them (sigh).  Beck and Neon Trees also are performing in early July.  Tickets are free, if you can get them.  If not, you can still sit on a rock just outside and hear fairly well.

Philharmonic in the Park is my favorite free summer activity – and always draws a huge crowd assuming the weather cooperates.  Performances on the Great Lawn are scheduled this year for July 11 and 14.  With plenty of space for everyone and fireworks after, there’s no reason to miss at least one of these fun nights.  Check the website for performances in other city parks throughout the summer.

And the Metropolitan Opera has scheduled performances from June 23-July 10.  Tickets required.

Shakespeare in the Park is performing Much Ado About Nothing from June 3-July 6.  Then King Lear performance run July 22-August 17.  Tickets are free if you can stand in line for the box office on the day of the event or you can try to win them in a lottery each morning.  You can also purchase tickets by making a hefty donation of $200.

Plus there are always tons of street fairs, parades, and lots going on around the Hudson Riverfront (free kayaking).  And Grand Banks, a new restaurant on the pier, opens this summer – promising to be a great outdoor spot for oysters on a hot day.  Now if the weather will finally cooperate….