I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, visiting NYC can sometimes be like traveling the world. This week’s events include Dragon Boats celebrating China, hip-hop honoring American history and an Italian festival that will have you feeling like you’re in the old country. But don’t worry those of you who want to experience the “city that never sleeps” the right way, there’s plenty of nightlife to deprive you of your zzzzz’s.

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival: On Aug. 8 and 9, celebrate the fifth moon of the lunar calendar by heading to Flushing Meadows Park to see more than 100 dragon boat teams compete for cash prizes and bragging rights. Taste some traditional Chinese cuisine and enjoy some live musical and dance performances while you’re there! http://www.hkdbf-ny.org/index.php

Hamilton on Broadway: Opening Aug. 6, Lin-Manuel Miranda takes on the role as founding father Alexander Hamilton. Incorporating hip-hop and humor, this Broadway debut will not disappoint. Tickets starting at $57. http://www.broadway.com/shows/hamilton-broadway/

Tune-Yards/Shabazz Palaces @ Prospect Park Bandshell: As part of the Celebrate Brooklyn free concert series, these two amazing acts are pairing up for a truly awesome show. Tune-Yards will delight with an elaborate stage show and music from a newly released album, while newbie Shabazz Palaces is sure to please with some exciting experimental hip hop. Give them each a try, for free, starting at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 8. http://bricartsmedia.org/events/tune-yards-shabazz-palaces

Boats ‘N Booze: It’s summer. You belong on a boat, with booze. Lucky for you if you’re visiting NYC, you have quite a few options of boats and waterways to choose from. All the research is done for you, all you have to do is click the link and pick the one that you like best! http://bit.ly/1HlhHvI

6th Annual Wes Anderson Themed Art Exhibit: This pop up exhibit is happening Aug. 6 through 9 at Joseph Gross Gallery in Chelsea. Expect to see more than 70 artists showcasing various art forms from paintings to sculpture, all within the theme of “Bad Dads.” Get your tickets fast, before they sell out. Added bonus: free beverages provided by Stella Artois. http://www.eventbrite.com/e/6th-annual-wes-anderson-themed-art-exhibit-tickets-17870722813?aff=es2

Remix Fridays: Looking for a great dance party in a swanky lounge in the middle of a cool NYC neighborhood? Head over to Katra Lounge in Soho for a mix of Hip Hop, Reggae and R&B. At 217 Bowery this event is late night, so make sure you’re ready for an all night dance party. http://www.nyc.com/events/remix_fridays.1262005/

Warren G EP Release Party: Old school hip-hop fans rejoice, you are visiting NYC at the right time. Join the party with Warren G and special guest EPMD on Aug. 9 at the Highline Ballroom. Doors open at 7 p.m. show starts at 9 p.m. Tickets ranging from $30-65. http://highlineballroom.com/show/2015/08/09/warren-g-ep-release-party-w-special-guest-epmd/

Colin Quinn The New York Story: Did you catch Colin Quinn portray Amy Schumer’s dad in the recently released comedy Trainwreck? If so, you know he’s a funny guy. Or maybe you just know he’s a funny guy because you keep tabs on funny guys. Whatever the motivation, get a ticket and see this one-man show directed by fellow funny guy Jerry Seinfeld. This limited run ends Aug. 16. http://www.cherrylanetheatre.org/onstage/colin-quinn-the-new-york-story/

Giglio Di Sant’Antonio in East Harlem: This festival runs from Aug. 6 to 9t in Harlem. Celebrating Saint Anthony, Italian Catholics like to raise a four-ton statue with hundreds of their closest friends. All weekend long expect street vendors selling delicious Italian classic dishes like sausage and peppers or fried zeppoles. There will even be live entertainment, games & rides. http://www.eastharlemgiglio.org/

Summer Streets: From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 8, enjoy the streets of New York without having to share with motor vehicles. You can walk, run, bike, or crawl your way up the streets with plenty of activities along the way to keep you entertained. You can expect a climbing wall, dance lessons and even a zip line. Enjoy it while you can, there’s only one more chance after this week. http://www.nycgo.com/events/summer-streets

Stacey Leigh is a creative and an educator living in Brookly, New York. You can email her at staceyleighdip@gmail.com

By Stacey Leigh DiPillo

For Weekender

10 things to do in NYC this weekend.
https://www.theweekender.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/web1_liberty.jpg10 things to do in NYC this weekend.