Explore East Harlem's first historic district, get your bike blessed at the stunning St. John the Divine Cathedral, peek into the studios of over 50 artists in the South Bronx, and more–all this weekend and beyond.
Various locations
Fri, May 3-Sun, May 5
This series of fascinating city strolls starts today and runs all weekend–a great opportunity to explore various parts of the city in the spirit of urban activist Jane Jacobs. Happily, there are more than 20 free, volunteer-led walks in Upper Manhattan, so check the map and find the one that's right for you. Need a suggestion? Try Saturday's walk exploring East Harlem's first historic district–the row house and tenement-filled area near 116th Street and Pleasant Avenue was approved for inclusion in the State Register of Historic Places this March.
The Cathedral Church St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave at W 112th Street
Sat, May 4 9am-10am
Prepare for a safe biking season at this annual service at St. John the Divine (and always remember to wear your helmet while riding). Yes, you can bring your bike inside the cathedral.
Mott Haven and Port Morris, the Bronx
Sat, May 4 noon-5pm
More than 50 Bronx artists–some longtime residents, some new to the borough–will be opening up their studios this Saturday afternoon. Shuttle buses will offer free transportation between the Frieze art fair on Randall's Island and seven other stops throughout the South Bronx. The event ends with the opening reception for the South Bronx Independent Artists Coalition show at Hell Gates Art.
Riverside Oval, W 156th St and Riverside Drive
Sat, May 4 3pm-5pm
Celebrate America's most famous birder while enjoying the local blooms and talking birds on the former site of his farm, Minniesland.
Cinco de Mayo in Harlem
Various locations
Sun, May 5
If your idea of a perfect Cinco de Mayo is a plate of soft, tasty tacos and a margarita or two to wash them down, start with this guide from The Curious Uptowner–most of the spots on the list are celebrating Cinco de Mayo with specials.
Maysles Documentary Center, 343 Malcolm X Boulevard between W 127 and W 128th Sts
Mon, May 6 at 7pm
Need an inspirational kick in the pants? Look no further than this "live magazine" at the Maysles Center where four experts will be speaking about their passion projects for 12 minutes each. This month's guests include journalist/author Yousef Bashir, restaurateur Kerry Brodie, Harlem wellness entrepreneur Vivian Kurutz, and filmmaker Charlotte Mangin.
