Ah, Memorial Day Weekend! The fleeting whiff of barbecue, the sounds of playing children, and the swell of sightseers that flock to New York City to celebrate the coming summer! Packed to the brim with events, parties, and festivals, this city is going to be swarming. The temperatures will be high, and the sun will be out, so check out these party suggestions to help observe the holiday weekend.

FRIDAY, MAY 25^th

Rooftop Films

Feel the cool city air while some “evil animation” at Open Road Rooftop in LES. The 2012 summer series kicks off this weekend with a few short films and an all night after party. The evening kicks off with live music from Softspot.

Downtown Music Gallery’s 21s Anniversary Show

Le Poisson Rouge is hosting a party celebrating over two decades of jazz, alternative, and experimental releases.

SATURDAY, MAY 26^th

Rock That Boat Night Time Yacht Cruise

Kicking off the 2012 summer season, here’s your chance to party on a boat the way T-Pain intended, sans T-Pain. Fifteen dollars gets you DJs, GoGo dancers, and spectacular views.

Lexington Avenue Spring Festival

From 10am to 6pm, head up to Lexington Avenue from 42^nd to 57^th for a casual street fair for all the likely suspects: music, food, shopping. A great time to grab a couple hot corncobs smothered in jalapeño butter and do some people watching.

Floating Kabarette!

If you’re wandering through Dumbo this weekend, check out the Galapagos art space for “sensual trapeze” artists, burlesque dancers and excellent cabaret style entertainment.

5 Boro PicNYC

This Memorial Day Weekend, head over to Governors Island and celebrate with craft beers, gourmet food, and live music. Tickets are $35, which includes unlimited sampling!

Electric Beach with George Garcia

Don’t worry about any velvet ropes this Saturday at Santos Party House for this DJ showcase. If you’re still buzzing from the Electric Daisy Carnival, this is the place to be.

Jimmy at the James

This Saturday, check out Summer Saturdays + Sundays, at the James Hotel. This Saturday features DJ Lion Dove.

 

SUNDAY, MAY 27^th

STK Rooftop Brunch

The STK rooftop is launching a new weekly Sunday Sunset Brunch party. The perfect pick-me-up for your post Saturday night revelry, you have the choice between a light menu earlier in the day, or a heartier meal in the afternoon. You’ll have DJ Truth at noon to help with digestion.

Riviera Sundays at LAVO

Another Sunday party option is Rocco Ancarola’s Beach Party at Lavo. This is a weekly dinner series with a different theme each week. Be prepared for a wild evening with dancers, DJs, and magicians!

Annual Spring Jubilee

This annual festival features over 500 exhibitors ranging form ethnic foods, art, crafts, antique, and jewelry. On Lexington Ave between 23^rd and 34^th form 11am to 6pm.

Weekend Bash at Marquee

Get down in Marquee’s main room with DJ Scott Melker and special guests DJ’s in the upstairs room. Remember to RSVP for reduced admission so you can dance away to House and Hip Hop.