June 6 & 7 – The 11th Annual Parkerfest. This will be on Governors Island (June 7 is also the anniversary of Mrs. Parker’s death in 1967). Come attend a huge Roaring Twenties weekend, with vintage clothes, automobiles, live jazz and outdoor cocktail parties. The Governors Island Jazz Age Lawn Party is produced by Michael Arenella, who will lead his famous Dreamland Orchestra in “hot-and-sweet” period music. Vintage attire is encouraged, and there is a wide range of fun things to do both days. All information about the schedule of activities, which runs from 11 AM to 5 PM, can be found on Michael’s site.
This is the second year in a row that we have taken the free ferry to this wonderful new city park (until 1996 Governors Island was a military base). Depart from the Battery Maritime Building, which is located at the corner of South and Whitehall Streets, adjacent to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. The nearest subway is the 1 to South Ferry or the R & W to Whitehall/South Ferry. The boats depart every hour on the hour starting at 10 AM. Complete ferry and island information is here.
Some practical information for visiting Governors Island:
-The Lawn Party is held in front of Colonel’s Row, west of Castle Clinton, about 10 minutes’ walk from the ferry dock (golf cart shuttle may run)
-Bring a picnic lunch, as there are no restaurants on the island
-Bring a blanket or lawn chair
-Island vendors sell water, juice, soda
-There is no ATM, so bring cash, as there will be vendors selling vintage clothing, hats, and more.
-Pets are not allowed; this would displease Mrs. Parker
-Alcohol is banned; if you must, think “hip flask”
Look for the DPS sign at the lawn party. We will be there from roughly Noon to 4 both days.
Reservations are not necessary. The ferry ride and Parkerfest are free. However, due to budget cuts on Governors Island, the hat is being passed to help fund the entertainment. We suggest donating $5 to $10 per person. See photos and video from previous Parkerfest weekends here.