Cultural Celebrations New York

Hipp Hipp Hurra! 🇳🇴 Let’s celebrate Norway Day on Syttende Mai (17th of May)!

Velkommen! (Welcome!) Gratulerer Med Dagen, Norge! 🇳🇴 (Congratulations on the Day, Norway!) 🇳🇴 Hipp, hipp, hurra! 🇳🇴 Join us as we celebrate Norway’s Constitution Day 📜 over lunch at Bjork Cafe at noon (we have a reservation for 8 of us) and then for festivities at the Norwegian Seaman’s Church by 2pm. (Feel free to go to the Norwegian Seaman’s Church whenever you'd like!) Addresses & Google maps links Bjork Cafe & Bistro 58 Park Avenue (between East 37th and East 38th Streets) https://maps.app.goo.gl/uyXuPaaYaY2UUWMs5 Norwegian Seaman’s Church 317 East 52nd Street (between 1st and 2nd Avenues) https://maps.app.goo.gl/7RNP9VmhKnnb6o6bA See you there! Hank & Fouad

Halleluya Festival

**Halleluya in NYC** [Festival's Website](https://www.halleluyanyc.org) The world-renowned *Halleluya Festival* is coming home again— the Block Party is taking place in Williamsburg, Brooklyn! Hosted by the *Shalom Catholic Community, this will be the festival’s second* edition in the Big Apple, and we couldn't be more excited! ## What is Halleluya? A celebration of art, joy, innovation, solidarity, and faith, the Halleluya Festival is affectionately known as **“The Party That Never Ends.”** As the largest Catholic festival of integrated arts in the world, Halleluya is a **free-admission event** that brings together music, dance, painting, and prayer to lead people into a profound encounter with Jesus Christ and a joy that never fades. Originating in *Fortaleza, Brazil, the festival gathers over* one million people each year and has lit up cities like *Panama City, Lisbon, Kraków, and Paris. With performances from international artists like* Matt Maher, Missionário Shalom, Fr. Rob Galea, Alfareros, and Banda Reale, Halleluya is a powerful blend of culture, talent, and faith. Halleluya in New York will have most delicious Napoli pizza in town and super tasty gelato. This event is free of charge and the fun is high level! Feel free to reach out to us at: shalomnewyork@comshalom.org if you have any questions.

Ayibobo! 🇭🇹 Haitian Flag Day 🎉Manman Drums, Ibo Dance & Soup Joumou! 🎤

On Wednesday, May 20th, we’ll go to the Haitian Flag Day Selebrasyon. 🇭🇹🎤 From 6 to 7pm, we’ll be at the Haitian Flag Day Selebrasyon, which will be at the Prospect Park Boathouse. The event is free, but please RSVP (link below) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/haitian-flag-day-selebrasyon-tickets-1987423919443 Then we’ll walk 30 minutes to DJONDJON, where we’ll have Haitian dinner from 7:30 to 9pm Google map links Prospect Park Boathouse https://maps.app.goo.gl/nUwiwqex9kXArL5k9 DJONDJON https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yie2tgTaKyU5fzAs7 Of course, please reach out if you have any questions! The not so fun rule on RSVPs Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group Thanks and can't wait to see you!

AFRICA DAY CELEBRATION

*Yacht Party Spring Sunset Cruise (Drinks, DJ, Dancing)

**\*\*GET TICKETS AT -** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vip-yacht-party-cruise-tickets-1984580017255](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vip-yacht-party-cruise-tickets-1984580017255) *(\*\*Our events are co-organized by multiple groups so don't pay attention to the RSVPs. These cruises are consistently well attended. Must get ticket in advance to attend.)* Join our cruise community on a fun yacht party through NYC and sail by the Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue of Liberty, and the beautiful New York City Skyline on this spacious vessel! Let loose on a 100 ft, 2-deck private yacht party on the hottest Yacht Cruise with the best DJs while enjoying the NYC Skyline! Sail through the city and take in the sights while you enjoy music and drinks for the night. Grab your friends or come alone and get ready to enjoy an experience you won't forget! What to expect: * **Scenic 3-hour cruise of the NYC harbor** * **Captivating views of the Manhattan skyline including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, the Freedom Tower and more** * **Climate-controlled covered areas and open air decks** * **Live DJ playing the best party music** * **2 Bars and Food available** **for purchase** * **Great for Birthday Celebrations/bachelorette/bachelor/anniversary/** **& more (Balloons & Cakes permitted - no other outside food allowed)** FAQs: • The boat will sail rain or shine! The boat has two levels. Both levels have climate controlled covered areas - indoor & outdoor • No specific dress code but we suggest Trendy/Neat Casual • There is paid parking at the marina, or you can try to find parking on the street. \*TIX NOT sold at door. Price will go up as space becomes limited so get tickets ASAP and save $$) **FOR MORE CRUISE DATES GO TO -** [https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283](https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283)

NYC Languages and Cultures Meetup at Li'l Jay's Cafe

**Languages, Coffee & Connection ☕** We’re excited to host our **NYC Languages and Cultures Meetup** at **Li’l Jay’s Cafe**! **What to Expect** This is a relaxed, friendly gathering focused on conversation and connection. No formal lessons — just authentic interaction in a cozy atmosphere. We’ll gently rotate groups so everyone gets a chance to meet new people and practice different languages. **Agenda (Flexible & Casual)** * **10–15 min** – Arrival & getting drinks or food * **20 min** – Small group introductions * **45–60 min** – Language exchange & open conversation * **Final 15 min** – Group wrap-up & future meetup ideas **Who Is This For?** * Language learners of all levels * Native speakers who enjoy cultural exchange * Anyone curious about different cultures **What to Bring** * Just yourself and a positive attitude! * Optional: A topic, question, or cultural story to share. **How Language Exchange Works** If enough people are learning the same language, we may split into small groups (for example: Spanish-English, Korean-English, etc.). Otherwise, we’ll keep it mixed and flowing naturally. **Location Details** **Li’l Jay’s Cafe** (860 11th Ave, New York, NY) The entrance is on the right side of the 860 building (connected to the college building). Look for our Meetup sign or ask for Jay! **Food & Drinks** Please support the café by purchasing at least one drink or item. It helps us continue hosting events in this wonderful space ☕ **Atmosphere** This is a low-pressure environment. No perfection required. Mistakes are welcome. Curiosity is encouraged. Respect is essential. Come for the language. Stay for the friendships. We can’t wait to meet you!

*Yacht Party Spring Cruise (Drinks, DJ, Dancing)

**\*GET TICKETS AT:** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vip-yacht-party-cruise-tickets-1984580017255](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vip-yacht-party-cruise-tickets-1984580017255) *(\*Our events are co-organized by multiple groups so don't pay attention to the RSVPs. These events are consistently well attended. Members get tickets and don't RSVP.* Join us for a fun and safe party cruise through NYC and sail by the Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue of Liberty, and the beautiful New York City Skyline on this spacious vessel! Let loose late night on a 100 ft, 2-deck private yacht party on the hottest yacht cruise with the best DJs while enjoying the NYC Skyline! Sail through the city and take in the sights while you enjoy music and drinks for the night. Grab your friends or come alone and get ready to enjoy an experience you won't forget! What to expect: * **Scenic 3-hour cruise of the NYC harbor** * **Captivating views of the Manhattan skyline including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, the Freedom Tower and more** * **Climate-controlled covered areas and open air decks** * **Live DJ playing the best party music** * **2 Bars and Food available** **for purchase** * **Great for Birthday Celebrations/bachelorette/bachelor/anniversary/** **& more (Balloons & Cakes permitted - no other outside food allowed)** FAQs: • The boat will sail rain or shine! The boat has two levels. Both levels have climate controlled covered areas - indoor & outdoor • No specific dress code but we suggest Trendy/Neat Casual • There is paid parking at the marina, or you can try to find parking on the street. \*TIX NOT sold at door. Price will go up as space becomes limited so get tickets ASAP and save $$) **For more fun events follow/go to -** [https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283](https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283)

Slay! 💃See 100s of Dance Styles (Afrobeats to Zouk) at Dance Parade 2026!🤩

On Saturday, May 16th, we’ll go to the Dance Parade 2026 edition. 💃🤩 We’ll see dancers performing hundreds of beautiful dance styles from all over the world. All the dance styles and the full parade route can be found below: [https://danceparade.org/see-the-parade/](https://danceparade.org/see-the-parade/) The Dance Parade 2026 is from 11:45am to 3pm. We’ll meet on the South Side of St. Marks Place and Second Avenue (specifically outside the Swiss Institute at 38 St Marks Place) The Dance Fest 2026 will take place in Tompkins Square Park and will have free, amazing dance performances from 3 to 7pm. (the host will unfortunately not be available for the Dance Fest, although it looks incredible too!) More info on the Dance Fest: [https://danceparade.org/dancefest/](https://danceparade.org/dancefest/) Google maps links Dance Parade 2026 (we'll meet outside the Swiss Institute at 38 St Marks Place) [https://maps.app.goo.gl/QQmFRKhiRQTFmoXN8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/QQmFRKhiRQTFmoXN8) Dance Fest 2026 @ Tompkins Square Park [https://maps.app.goo.gl/N6sdi9oeUZ3xxwHh7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/N6sdi9oeUZ3xxwHh7) Of course, please reach out if you have any questions! The not so fun rule on RSVPs Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group Thanks and can't wait to see you!

Chinese Brunch & Live Music

Enjoy great music and great vibes, make new friends and eat delicious food. Join us for a super fun brunch! ☀️🥢🎶 Make new friends 🤝, enjoy great music by Margaret Lee 🎤, and savor delicious Chinese food 🥟🍜. Sunday is going to be beautiful and sunny! 🌞 This event is hosted by the Shalom Catholic Community 💛 We are a vibrant community in Williamsburg 🌆, and you’ll leave with at least five new friends and plenty of great memories ✨😊 Brunch starts at 1:45 PM and ends at 3:30 PM 🕑 in our super cool backyard 🌿, where we’ll relax at the picnic tables 🪑 and enjoy the outdoors together 🌳☀️ If you have questions, please reach out to us at: shalomnewyork@comshalom.org

NYC Amapiano Day Fest @ The Delancey Roof (Last Saturdays)

Spring is almost here and we ready with our spring and summer rooftop day party series - NYC Amapiano Day Fest 2026 (Last Saturdays) Tickets Available Now - [Click To Learn More ](https://AmapianoDayFestNYC2026.eventbrite.com/?aff=MU) NYC, the moment you've been waiting for is here! Afropolitan Cities in partnership with Notribe Nation is back with the much-anticipated Amapiano Day Fest, and this year, we're reaching even greater heights!! 🎵🌆 Prepare for an electrifying fusion as Africa's two monumental music genres take center stage at the chic and captivating Delancey Rooftop in the heart of New York. Immerse yourself in mesmerizing moments that blend West and South African cultural into an electrifying & festive rooftop vibe filled with rhythm, fashion, and flavor Event Highlights: • An unbeatable day arty with an incredible lineup of at least 3 top African DJs • Captivating dance performances that embody the spirit of both regions. • An exclusive Popup shop experience spotlighting a curated selection of retail vendors. • Make an entrance with our exclusive red carpet experience. Experience the heart and soul of Amapiano & Afrobeats culture as every beat, note, and melody tells a story. Whether you're a seasoned Amapiano enthusiast or just beginning to explore its rhythmic depths, the NYC Amapiano Day Fest 2025 promises an unforgettable journey. Join us, lose yourself in the collective euphoria, connect with an amazing community of enthusiasts, and etch this day into your memories forever. 🎉🌍🎶

Bud'mo in Little Ukraine! 🇺🇦 Dancing, culture, and pierogies 🥟

On Saturday, May 16th, we're going to the 50th Annual St. George Ukrainian Festival! From 1:30 to 3pm, we'll see youth performances in the festival From 3 to 4:15, we'll check out the Ukrainian museum From 4:15 to 6, we'll go to Ukrainian East Village restaurant. We have a reservation for 20 From 6 to 7:30, we'll see professional performances in the festival

Memorial Day Eve Singles Party

\*TO ATTEND GET TICKETS AT: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/memorial-day-eve-upscale-singles-party-tickets-1989549000618](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/memorial-day-eve-upscale-singles-party-tickets-1989549000618) (\*Limited # save $5 by using promo code "5" at checkout. *Our events are co-organized by multiple groups so don't pay attention to the RSVPs. These events are consistently well attended.)* Join over 100 singles at our Memorial Weekend Singles Party! We have booked the entire venue for our event so everyone in the place will be single and ready to mingle. What to expect: * Complimentary appetizers at 8pm * Great music at a volume conducive to conversation * Fun ice breaker games * Prizes and giveaways Our party will be the hottest event in town this Memorial Day weekend! There's no work on Monday so we expect a sold out event!