F is for February and you may find yourself with SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and FOGO (Fear Of Going Out). It’s brutally cold outside and as a friend unapologetically declared, “it’s only going to get worse”. Fear not. There are plenty of hygge-friendly options outside your home. Here’s what’s on in New York in February:
AWNY and AWNY-affiliated events this month include:
Jan 31: 2019 American Australian Arts Awards
Celebrate the incredible contributions made by Aussies in entertainment and the arts. Proceeds raised from the event support the American Australian Association and its American-Australian Arts Fund. Cost: $350 for AWNY members, $1,000 for non-members. Location: Skylight Modern, New York. Contact: georgina.duckworth@aaanyc.org.
Feb 2, 11 am- 12 pm: FREE EVENT – Meditation for Children at The Happinest NYC
Join Big World of Little Dude and The Happinest NYC for a relaxing morning of meditation for children aged 3 – 7 and caregivers. Children will engage in a reading of the book, Brain Vacation: A Guide to Meditation, led by author Cara Zelas, learn breathing techniques and enjoy a puppet show, singing included! The event is free but space is limited so RSVP is essential.
Feb 11, 6.30 – 9.30 pm: AWNY New Members Winter Mixer at The Australian Bar & Restaurant
Aussie and NZ women are invited to join us at The Australian NYC for a drink and the opportunity to connect with a bunch of amazing Australian women. Members of our fun, diverse and creative AWNY committee will be there to welcome you. All Aussie or NZ women, members or non-members, are welcome. Spaces are limited. Entry is free and there is a cash bar available. RSVP to awny@aaanyc.org or via AWNY Facebook page.
Feb 25, 6:00 – 8:30 pm: Starting Your Own Business in the USA
If you’ve ever dreamt of starting your own business in New York but are not sure where to begin, you’ll want to join this event at the Liberty NYC. Hosted by New York-based, Australian-born, career coach Belinda Jackson, from Prosell International and Working in the USA. Belinda’s agenda includes registering a business, funding options, marketing strategies and navigating cultural differences between Australian and American workplaces. Tickets are just $15 for the general community/$10 for AWNY members and include light nibbles, plus there is a cash bar. Get your tickets before they sell out.
Feb 3: Super Bowl LIII
An unofficial national holiday, Super Bowl Sunday is the most viewed event in the country. You don’t need to be a football fan because half the fun is watching the quirky ads, the halftime show (with this year’s headliner, Maroon 5) and of course embracing the tradition of the Super Bowl party – did you know that 1.3 billion chicken wings will be consumed? Mind-blowing. Catch the action at a local bar of your choice.
I’ve traditionally spent Super Bowl Sunday watching a chick flick at the cinema so here’s an alternative if Super Bowl similarly isn’t your cup of tea…
Feb 3, 1 – 2 pm: FREE EVENT – The Neuroscience of Meditation with Kathy Chen
Ever wondered how meditation reduces stress and improves happiness? Join author and meditation teacher, Kathy Chen, at The Strand Bookstore for a FREE afternoon talk on the benefits of meditation.
Feb 5 – 7: Big Apple Film Fest and Screenplay Competition
BAFF was named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s “25 Festivals Worth The Entry Fee” and “25 Coolest Film Festivals.” It takes place at the SVA Theatre, and you can buy tickets for the screenings that will be available soon – check the BAFF website for the latest news.
Until Feb 8: NYC Restaurant Week
Enjoy a 3-course dinner at one of NYC’s finest restaurant at just $42 (or a 2-course lunch for just $26). There are more than 380 restaurants participating, including Aussie restaurants: Babu-Ji and Burke & Wills.
Feb 8: Opening of the AKC Museum of The Dog
Catch some canine culture. The American Kennel Club (AKC) brings the Museum of the Dog back to NYC. Located at the AKC HQ, the museum will showcase more than 180 pieces of dog art as well as interactive digital exhibits. Tickets are $15 for adult and $5 for kids under 12.
Jan 21 – Feb 10: NYC Must-See Week
On a budget? NYC Must-See Week is the perfect time to nab 2-for-1 tickets to a whole swag of iconic NYC experiences, including Winter Village at Bryant Park, MoMA, New York City Ballet and much more. Click here for the full lineup and to buy tickets.
Feb 11 – 12: Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show
Back for its 143rd year at Madison Square Garden, the entrants include hundreds of dogs from all across the US. In addition to viewing the completion, tickets also enable you access to speak with breeders, handlers and their dogs “on the bench”. Tickets start from $40.
Feb 19, 6:30 – 8:30 pm: Adelaide University Alumni Reception in NYC
Did you attend the University of Adelaide? Vice-Chancellor and President of the University Professor Peter Rathjen is hosting an alumni reception on Tuesday, February 19 at The ACE Hotel, Liberty Hall. It’s a great opportunity to network, catch-up with friends, make professional connections and hear about the University’s exciting new vision. This event is strictly for Adelaide University Alumni and partners. Dress is business attire. To request an invitation please email cassie.llewellyn-smith@adelaide.edu.au.
Feb 19: The Chills at The Bell House
Revered New Zealand band and champions of the Dunedin sound, The Chills, fronted by Martin Phillips, perform at Brooklyn live-music haven, The Bell House. Tickets are $28 advance/$35 at the door.
Until Feb 26: FREE EVENT – Fitness, Yoga and Exerskate Classes at Bryant Park
You can enjoy FREE fitness classes at Bryant Park. On Mondays it’s DO It All Fitness, Tuesdays is CorePower yoga and for those of you who want to take your workout to the ice, Thursdays is Exerskate.
And finally…February is the month of the Hallmark holiday that divides a nation: Valentine’s Day on February 14. My view is that any day that promotes the consumption of chocolate is something I can get behind. Which reminds me that the Nutella Cafe New York opened in Union Square, 116 University Place, in late 2018. There are all sorts of Nutella-based goodies to enjoy in-store or take home. Whether it’s with yourself or a plus-one, why not make a date to treat yourself?
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