NeoManhattan

From http://newyork.timeout.com/things-to-do/39008/101-things-to-do-in-new-york-city-in-the-summer

1. Run around the city in costume during the Great Urban Race
Always wanted to complete an obstacle course dressed as an Oompa-Loompa or Austin Powers? Here’s your chance. This urban adventure is in its fifth year in New York, and takes place in 40 cities around the world. Similar in format to the Amazing Race television show, it tasks teams of two—usually in fancy dress—to run around the city for a few hours, solving clues and completing mental and physical challenges, like stacking three golf balls on top of each other or shooting a basketball blindfolded. Winning teams receive modest cash prizes and qualify for the National Championships in New Orleans, which boasts a $10,000 reward; however, most teams are in it for the fun and to support a good cause—a portion of the proceeds are donated to charity. Brooklyn race: June 11; $45–$65. Manhattan race: Aug 20; $50–$70. Register at greaturbanrace.com or call 773-687-4595.

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From http://www.hillmanwonders.com/best_new_york/best_new_york_events_top.htm

• Times Square New Year’s Eve
  • Why: This top 5 New York event is seen around the world. The celebrated ball drops to mark New Year as a million spectators packing the square and nearby streets gleefully scream and shout.
  • When: Evening of Dec 31st.
• Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
  • Why: Gigantic helium-inflated cartoon-character balloons and bouncy-stepped marching bands slowly make their way down from 77th to Macy’s Department Store on 34th Street. The top five event is a family favorite.
  • When: Daytime on November 27th.
• New York Marathon
  • Why: This top 5 event passes through all five New York boroughs, from Staten Island to Manhattan’s Central Park. Over 30,000 runners participate and a million sidewalk spectators cheer them on.
  • When: Daytime on the first Sunday in November.
• Fourth of July Fireworks
  • Why: Macy’s sponsored waterside event is one of the world’s most exciting firework displays. This top five New York event employs the latest pyrotechnics modules. Spectacular.
  • When: Evening of July 4th.
• Christmas Tree Lighting
  • Why: A freshly cut, skyscraping Christmas tree is placed in front of the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink and adorned with countless lights. It’s ceremoniously lit with great fanfare to countless onlookers who jam the streets for this top 5 New York event.
  • When: On one evening in the last week of November.