April in New York City is when spring really kicks in, and there’s a ton going on to make your visit—or your weekend out—worth it. You’ll find festivals, parades, and special events all over the city, from cherry blossom celebrations to big cultural gatherings that draw crowds every year.
This guide breaks down the top spring events you can’t miss, with all the details you need to plan your time in the Big Apple.
1. Cherry Blossom Festival at Brooklyn Botanic Garden
If you’re in NYC in April, you can’t miss the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Known as one of the city’s biggest spring highlights, this event celebrates the blooming cherry trees that turn the garden into a stunning display of pink and white. It usually happens over the last weekend of April—in 2025, expect it around April 26-27, though exact dates depend on when the blossoms peak.
The festival, often called Sakura Matsuri, has been a tradition for years, bringing in crowds to see over 200 cherry trees across 52 acres. You’ll find more than just pretty flowers here—there are live performances like taiko drumming, traditional Japanese dance, and even tea ceremonies where you can sip matcha and learn about the ritual. Food stalls serve up Japanese treats like bento boxes and mochi, so you won’t go hungry. The garden also hosts art displays and hands-on workshops, giving you a chance to try things like origami or calligraphy.
Getting there is easy—take the 2 or 3 train to Eastern Parkway-Brooklyn Museum, and you’re right at the entrance. If you want to see the blooms without the festival crowds, the garden’s open Tuesday through Sunday, and you can check their bloom tracker online to time your visit. Want a closer look at this iconic spring event?
Brooklyn Botanical Garden
2. New York City Marathon Spring Tune-Up Run
If you’re into running or just love a good outdoor event, the New York City Marathon Spring Tune-Up Run is a great April pick. Hosted by the New York Road Runners, this 18-mile race happens in Central Park, typically mid-April—think around April 19 in 2025, though you’ll want to check the exact date closer to spring. It’s a warm-up for the big marathon in November, but it’s open to anyone who wants to join, not just pros.
You’ll start at 102nd Street and run three loops around the park’s full course, passing landmarks like the Reservoir and the Great Lawn.
Take the 6 train to 103rd Street and walk west to the start line. It’s a solid way to enjoy spring in NYC and feel the energy of the city’s running crowd.
People watching a movie in a theater
3. Macy’s Flower Show
Every year, Macy’s Herald Square turns into a springtime wonder with its Flower Show, and in 2025, it’s set to run from late March through early April—usually wrapping up around April 7. This free event transforms the store’s main floor into a garden filled with thousands of flowers, from tulips to roses, all arranged in eye-catching displays.
You’ll walk through setups that change yearly—past themes have included fairy tales and space, so 2025 could bring something just as creative. It’s not just about looking—there are live demos where florists show you how to arrange bouquets, plus gardening tips if you want to try it at home. The store’s windows along 34th Street get in on the action too, with flower-themed designs that draw big crowds.
Since it’s at Macy’s, you’re right in Midtown—take the B, D, F, or M train to 34th Street-Herald Square, and you’re there. It’s a fun, no-cost way to kick off April, especially if you love flowers or just want a unique shopping break.
A Macy’s store
4. Earth Day Festival at Randall’s Island Park
Earth Day hits on April 22, and NYC celebrates with a big, free festival at Randall’s Island Park on Saturday, April 26, 2025. This event is all about the planet, but it’s also a blast for families and anyone who likes being outside. You’ll find interactive stuff like planting workshops where you can pot your own seedling, plus eco-friendly games and crafts for kids.
There’s live music too—think local bands playing upbeat tunes—along with food trucks serving sustainable bites like vegan tacos and organic smoothies. The park’s cherry blossoms are usually still around, so you get a nice spring backdrop while you’re there. It runs from noon to 3 p.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy it all.
To get there, take the 6 train to 125th Street, then hop on the M35 bus to the island. It’s a laid-back way to celebrate spring and learn a bit about going green.
5. Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival
If you’re in NYC on Easter Sunday—April 20 in 2025—you’ve got to check out the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival along Fifth Avenue. This tradition goes back to the 1870s, when people would stroll after church in their Sunday best. Now, it’s all about the hats—big, colorful, and totally over-the-top.
You’ll see folks of all ages walking from 49th to 57th Street, showing off bonnets decked out with flowers, feathers, and even toy bunnies. It’s not a formal parade with floats or bands—just a fun, casual procession where anyone can join in. Bring your own hat if you want, or just watch the creativity roll by. The best part? It’s free and runs from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fifth Avenue’s easy to reach—take the N, R, or W to 5th Avenue/59th Street. It’s a quirky, lighthearted way to spend Easter, especially if you’re with family or friends.
Flowers at Randall’s Island Park
6. Ninth Avenue International Food Festival
Food fans, mark your calendars for the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, happening in mid-to-late April—likely around April 19-20 in 2025. This Hell’s Kitchen event has been running for over 50 years, taking over Ninth Avenue from 42nd to 57th Street with eats from around the world.
You’ll find dozens of vendors serving everything from Italian arancini to Jamaican jerk chicken, plus desserts like baklava and churros. It’s not just food—there’s live music with bands playing on small stages, and street performers keeping the energy up. Local shops and restaurants join in too, offering deals and samples. It’s also free to enter and walk around.
Get there via the A, C, or E train to 42nd Street-Port Authority. It’s a loud, busy, delicious way to spend a weekend, perfect if you love trying new flavors. Want to pair it with a cool activity?
Builidngs in Fifth Avenue
7. NYC Tattoo Arts Festival
If you’re into ink, the NYC Tattoo Arts Festival is a unique spring event you’ll want to hit up. Set for April 11-13 in 2025 at the New York Hilton Midtown, this gathering brings together over 250 tattoo artists from across the country. You can watch them work, book a session, or just check out the art.
It’s not all needles—there are contests like “Best Sleeve” or “Tattoo of the Day,” plus live entertainment with sideshow acts like fire-eaters and burlesque dancers. You’ll also find vendors selling jewelry, clothing, and tattoo gear.
The Hilton’s at 1335 Avenue of the Americas—take the B, D, F, or M to 57th Street. It’s a fun, edgy way to spend an April weekend, especially if you’re curious about tattoo culture.
8. Fleet Week Kickoff at Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Fleet Week doesn’t fully start until May, but the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum often kicks things off in late April—think around April 25-27 in 2025. This event honors the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, and it’s a cool way to wrap up the month.
You’ll get to tour real military ships docked at Pier 86, meet service members, and watch demos like helicopter flyovers or search-and-rescue drills. The museum itself has exhibits on WWII aircraft and submarines, plus kid-friendly activities like flight simulator rides.
It’s at 12th Avenue and 46th Street—take the 7 train to Hudson Yards and walk over. It’s a patriotic, hands-on event that’s great for all ages.
Large buildings in NYC
Make Your April in NYC Unforgettable
April in NYC is packed with events that bring out the best of spring, from the blooming cherry blossoms at Brooklyn Botanic Garden to the food-filled streets of the Ninth Avenue Festival. You’ve got plenty of options to fill your days, whether you’re into films at Tribeca, flowers at Macy’s, or tattoos at the Hilton. Each event offers something special, so pick what suits you and get out there. For more ideas and planning help, head to Visit NYC—your go-to New York City tourism site. While you’re exploring, don’t miss out on discovering hidden places in New York, perfect for those looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots. If you’re planning to see a show, check out the best New York Broadway shows for families, offering entertainment for all ages. For accommodations, consider the best budget-friendly hotels in NYC to make your stay more affordable. And if Hamilton is on your must-see list, you can buy Hamilton tickets NYC in advance to secure the best seats.
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