Fun Events, Parties, and Things To Do in NYC in April 2025 (with Free Events!)
From dancing the night away at a Swedish music festival, taking Jeeps for a mountain drive right in the city, or stepping inside the completely reimagined Frick mansion, there’s plenty to do in NYC in April 2025.
Santina Semadar Panetta Portrait Exhibition at Carlton Fine Arts
Detail of a work by Santina Semadar Panetta. Image: Santina Semadar Panetta.
What’s happening: Internationally acclaimed artist Semadar, known for her pioneering neo-pointillism technique, presents a stunning series of portraiture works, including portraits of Elvis Presley, Robin Williams, Marilyn Monroe, and Bob Marley. Featuring oil on canvas from 2012 and 2014, this exhibition launches her participation in Artexpo New York. Semadar's works have graced top galleries worldwide and earned numerous prestigious accolades, including awards from the Louvre and Biennale of the Nations.
The vibe: Expect an art-enthusiast crowd, eager to experience deeply emotional, vibrantly executed portraits of icons. The gallery ambiance is refined.
What to wear: Think chic and contemporary.
Monday, April 2nd through Friday April 25, 2025 at Carlton Fine Arts, 543 Madison Avenue, New York. Information and hours here.
New York International Antiquarian Book Fair
New York International Antiquarian Book Fair. Image: via NYIABF.
What’s happening: A bibliophile’s paradise where nearly 200 global exhibitors unveil rare manuscripts, first editions, and literary treasures. From $50 gems to multimillion-dollar rarities, this gathering blends history, literature, and art. This year welcomes an expanded Ambassador Program featuring tastemakers from rare books, design, jewelry, and more, including luminaries like Alexandre Assouline, Emma Roberts, and Isabella Boylston.
The vibe: A cultivated mix of collectors, scholars, and culture connoisseurs, whispering excitedly over illuminated manuscripts and modernist masterpieces. Expect an atmosphere of hushed reverence punctuated by delighted gasps at serendipitous finds.
What to wear: Smart casual with an intellectual flair—think tweed, statement eyewear, and something that suggests you’ve just stepped out of a library in Vienna.
Thursday, April 3 through Sunday, April 6, 2025 at the Park Avenue Armory. Information and tickets here.
Artexpo New York 2025
What’s happening: Artexpo New York celebrates its 48th year with a four-day showcase of contemporary and fine art from over 200 global galleries and 1,000+ artists. Featuring specialized programs like Art Labs, Spotlight, and the Discoveries Collection, this prestigious event allows guests to engage with curated art collections, attend panel discussions, and discover emerging talent. Past attendees have included art icons such as Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Robert Rauschenberg.
The vibe: Expect a refined crowd of art aficionados, curators, collectors, and industry insiders. This is the place for art lovers to explore innovative works and network with global talents. A blend of tradition and cutting-edge creativity fills the air.
What to wear: Chic, contemporary, and art-forward, so you can stroll through galleries and mingle effortlessly.
Thursday, April 3 through Sunday, April 6, 2025 at Pier 36, 299 South Street, Manhattan, NY. Information and tickets here.
NYU First Run Festival 2025
What’s happening: The longest-running film festival in New York City returns, showcasing the next wave of cinematic talent from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Hosted by the Kanbar Institute of Film & Television, First Run Festival is a four-day celebration of student filmmaking, featuring over 100 works spanning animation, documentary, experimental, and narrative storytelling. The event kicks off with the Craft Awards Ceremony, honoring excellence in screenwriting, editing, cinematography, and more, with select students taking home cash prizes.
King Awards & Screening 2025
The most prestigious night of NYU’s First Run Festival honors the best of the best. The King Awards recognize the top three student filmmakers from NYU’s Graduate and Undergraduate Departments, with over $50,000 in cash prizes awarded to the winners. The celebration continues with an exclusive screening of their standout films at Regal Union Square Theater.
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 from 6:00 PM at Regal Union Square Theater. Free and open to the public. Information here.
The vibe: Future Oscar winners in the making. Expect a mix of film students, industry insiders, and downtown cinephiles dissecting shots and debating narratives over strong coffee.
What to wear: Whatever makes you feel like a jury member at Cannes.
Wednesday, April 2 through Sunday, April 6, 2025 at various times at 721 Broadway, Lower Level. Free and open to the public. Information and screening schedule here.
Red Carpet Hospitality Gala
What’s happening: An elegant evening where industry leaders from hospitality, Broadway, and public safety gather to raise funds for vital programs. Attendees can enjoy a cocktail reception, silent auction, and a sit-down dinner with a thrilling performance of BOOP! The Musical. Awards will be presented to key figures in hospitality and public service. Proceeds support initiatives in public safety, sanitation, and advancing hospitality in NYC.
The vibe: A luxurious affair attracting executives, philanthropists, and influencers from hospitality and entertainment. It’s the ultimate night to network, celebrate, and support the future of New York’s hospitality scene.
What to wear: Festive attire
Monday, April 7, 2025 from 6:00 PM until 0:00 PM at JW Marriott Essex House. Information and tickets here.
Sweden Makes Music 2025
What’s happening: Celebrate Swedish pop and electronic talent at the 10th anniversary of Sweden Makes Music on April 10th at Nublu. This annual showcase, presented by the Consulate General of Sweden, Export Music Sweden, and Luger, brings the best of Sweden’s emerging artists to NYC. This year, expect performances by Becky and The Birds, Saga Faye, DJ Suzy, and Molø. The event highlights Sweden's vibrant music scene, with a focus on boundary-pushing pop, electronic, and experimental sounds, having produced the likes of Bladee and and ABBA.
The vibe: An eclectic crowd of music lovers, industry insiders, and cultural enthusiasts. It’s a celebration of fresh talent and Scandinavian cool, where the beats are as innovative as the artists themselves.
What to wear: Trendy, with a nod to NYC’s nightlife scene.
Thursday April 10, 2025, with doors opening at 6:30 PM. Nublu, 151 Loisaida Ave, New York, NY 10009. Free entry with RSVP. Information and RSVP here.
International Friends of Festival Verdi Spring Gala
What’s happening: An evening of elegance in support of Teatro Regio di Parma, Festival Verdi, and Accademia Verdiana. Enjoy cocktails, dinner, live opera performances, and a silent auction, all celebrating the US announcement of Festival Verdi 2025 in Parma, Italy. Special highlights include a performance by Edwin Davis, a gourmet dinner curated by Parma chefs, and the presentation of the 2025 Fortunino Award to Marta Torbidoni, soprano. The night concludes with an electrifying Verdi OFF! After-Party featuring electric violinist DAVOS.
The vibe: A glamorous gathering of opera lovers, philanthropists, and music enthusiasts. The evening promises a refined atmosphere with elegant guests celebrating opera’s most iconic figures and discovering the upcoming Festival Verdi.
What to wear: Black-tie, with a touch of Italian flair.
Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 6:00 PM until late at The Stanley H. Kaplan Penthouse of the Samuel B. and David Rose Building, 70 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023. Information and tickets here.
Young Concert Artists 64th Annual Gala
What’s happening: An evening of extraordinary music and celebration honoring Clive Gillinson, the visionary leader of Carnegie Hall. Young Concert Artists 64th Annual Gala unfolds with cocktails, a dazzling concert, a gourmet dinner, and a lively auction, followed by a decadent dessert reception. The evening features performances by an all-star lineup, including Emanuel Ax, Tim Fain, and members of the National Youth Orchestra, this gala supports the next generation of rising classical musicians.
The vibe: A cultured crowd of patrons, musicians, and industry luminaries, discussing virtuosity and vibrato. Expect an impressive mix of patrons offering heartfelt standing ovations. This is one of the most internationally-attended benefits in New York City— you’re sure to make a new friend.
What to wear: Black tie, with a touch of artistic flair—silk, velvet, and perhaps a hint of gold to match the evening’s grandeur.
Thursday, April 17, 2025, with a 5:45 PM cocktail reception, 7:00 PM concert, 8:00 PM dinner and live auction, 9:30 PM dessert reception. Jazz at Lincoln Center. Information and tickets here.
The Frick Collection Reopening
The Frick Collection’s 5th Avenue Garden. Image: The Frick Collection.
What’s happening: The Frick Collection reopens in April 2025 after an extensive renovation by Selldorf Architects. Visitors will explore newly revitalized historic spaces, additional galleries, and the Frick Art Research Library, offering access to previously private areas. The inaugural season includes an exclusive porcelain flower commission by Vladimir Kanevsky, a music festival, and a special Vermeer exhibition, Love Letters, unveiling iconic works. The second floor, previously off-limits, opens to the public, showcasing the Frick's celebrated and new acquisitions.
The vibe: A chic fusion of old-world elegance and fresh, modern sensibilities. Art lovers and culture connoisseurs will revel in the opportunity to experience one of New York's most treasured collections like never before.
What to wear: Smart-casual
Thursday, April 17, 2025 at The Frick Collection, 1 East 70th Street, New York, NY 10021. Information and tickets here.
Daily Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Monday: Closed
The New York International Auto Show 2025
What’s happening: The New York International Auto Show is an annual extravaganza where car enthusiasts and industry experts gather to see the latest innovations in automotive design. Guests can explore futuristic concept cars, cutting-edge electric vehicles, and powerful muscle cars, while also attending live demonstrations, product unveilings, and interactive exhibits. The show has become a hub for global automotive brands to reveal their most anticipated models, making it a must-see event for those interested in the future of transportation.
The vibe: Expect to see automotive aficionados, luxury brand enthusiasts, and tech-savvy guests mingling with a mix of gearheads and those with an eye for sleek design. This event is perfect for anyone who enjoys luxury, speed, and innovation – plus, a few rare celebrity sightings.
What to wear: Casual.
Friday, April 18 through Sunday, April 27, 2025, open daily from 10:00am-10:00pm with early access for Early Access ticket holders. Taking place at The Javits Center. Information and tickets here.
Clarion Masked Gala 2025
What’s happening: An evening filled with world-class performances by The Clarion Choir & Orchestra, paired with cocktails and a sumptuous three-course dinner at the iconic Essex House. This prestigious gala honors exceptional figures in the arts and hospitality while supporting Clarion’s concert programs, recordings, touring, and educational initiatives. Expect a night of fine music and conversation in a truly elegant setting.
The vibe: A sophisticated gathering of opera enthusiasts, music lovers, and philanthropists. Guests will enjoy an elegant, high-profile event where cultural excellence reigns along with celebration of talents. The evening will honor Isabel Leonard, international opera singer, star of the Metropolitan Opera, and 3-time GRAMMY®-award winning artist as well as John Rieman, General Manager of the JW Marriott Essex House.
What to wear: Black-tie attire with mask.
Wednesday, April 23, 2025 from 6:30 PM onward at the JW Marriott Essex House, Central Park South. Information and tickets here.
