This Valentine’s Day, Lincoln Square is the place to celebrate love in all its forms. From intimate performances and unforgettable dining experiences to thoughtful gifts, sweet treats, and unique adventures, there’s something here for everyone to make the season of romance truly special—and don’t worry, it’s not too late to join in the fun. Explore our curated guide to plan the perfect day, or week, of heartfelt moments.

Events and Performances

Cupid’s Secret • Now–Sat, Feb 28 • Various Times • The Shops at Columbus Circle (10 Columbus Circle): Enter the hidden speakeasy for an immersive evening of live music, breathtaking spectacle, and a four-course dinner designed to awaken the senses—curated by award-winning Food Network Chef Jermaine Edwards. 

Valentine’s Day at Ascent Lounge • Thurs, Feb 12–Sun, Feb 15 • Ascent Lounge (10 Columbus Circle): Let Ascent Lounge romance you this Valentine’s Day with champagne, caviar, Maison du Chocolat packages, and seductive live music with Central Park views. 

Virtual Teen Comics Chat – Black History Month, Romance and Lunar New Year • Thurs, Feb 12 • 4:00pm–5:00pm • Riverside Library (Online): Teens ages 13–18 can join a virtual discussion on comics and manga exploring Black History Month, romance, and Lunar New Year.

Valentine’s Events at Gertrude Ederle Recreation Center (West 59th Street):
Valentine’s Love, Fitness, and Fun • Fri, Feb 13 • 5:00pm–7:00pm: Couples will participate in karaoke and a couple’s boxing class led by Noel Byfield. Bring your partner for a unique experience and create memories while having fun and being fit.

Cupid’s Karaoke • Fri, Feb 13 • 5:00–7:00pm: Bring a friend or two and celebrate the festivities at this fun & interactive social event where participants take turns singing along to pre-recorded music.
Valentine’s Weekend Performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center (Broadway at 60th Street):

Dianne Reeves • Fri, Feb 13 & Sat, Feb 14 • 7:30pm (Rose Theater): The five-time Grammy Award winner and NEA Jazz Master returns with a Valentine’s program exploring the many facets of love. The Chelsea Reed Quartet performs in the Ertegun Atrium at 6:30pm before the show.

Ashley Pezzotti with the Steven Feifke Big Band • Fri, Feb 13 • 7:00pm & 9:00pm (Dizzy’s Club): Lush arrangements, heartfelt ballads, and swinging classics paired with stunning skyline views and a special prix fixe menu.

Camille Thurman and the Darrell Green Quartet • Sat, Feb 14 • 7:00pm & 9:00pm (Dizzy’s Club): Inspired interpretations of classic standards with skyline views and a special prix fixe menu.

Morgan James, A Valentine’s Weekend Special • Sun, Feb 15 • 5:00pm & 7:30pm (Dizzy’s Club): Soulful storytelling and unmistakable stage presence with a special prix fixe menu.

Fly Love Songs • Sat, Feb 14, 7:30pm • Lincoln Center, David Rubenstein Atrium (1887 Broadway): Give in to the beat, grab your bae, and roll out for a DJ dance set of modern R&B and classic rap love songs, curated by the Mixtape Assassin J.PERIOD playing Cupid on the wheels of steel.

The Sleeping Beauty • Sat, Feb 14 • 2:00pm & 7:30pm • NYC Ballet, David H. Koch Theater (20 Lincoln Center Plaza): Spend Valentine’s Day with a timeless fairytale as New York City Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty, a sweeping story of romance, magic, and grandeur set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score.

Love Songs Performed by Pre-College Voice Students of Lorraine Nubar • Sat, Feb 14 • 11:00am • Juilliard, Paul Hall (155 W. 65th Street): Enjoy a free morning performance of love songs presented by Juilliard’s Pre-College voice students in an intimate recital celebrating the season of romance.
Valentine’s Day with Diane Keaton Retrospective •Sat, Feb 14 • Various Times • Film at Lincoln Center, Walter Reade Theater (165 W 65th Street): See Diane Keaton in films on relationships this Valentine‘s Day with Crimes of the Heart, Reds, and Something’s Gotta Give. 

Hotel Stays

Romantic Retreat at Mandarin Oriental, New York (80 Columbus Circle) • Now–Sun, Mar 1: Indulge in a romantic stay from the first toast to the final farewell, with chilled champagne awaiting in your room, signature drinks in the intimate speakeasy, and a complimentary late check-out to linger a little longer.

Romance Retreat at The Empire Hotel (44 West 63rd Street): Celebrate your love and elevate your romance with the Empire Hotel. Champagne, romantic décor, sweet treats, plush robes, and two drinks at the rooftop bar create the perfect NYC couples retreat.

Dining Experiences

Atlantic Grill (50 West 65th Street): Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a three-course chef tasting menu for $100 per person, along with some surprises and extras.

Cafe Fiorello (1900 Broadway): Reserve your table and enjoy romantic Valentine’s Day specials, including heart-shaped ravioli, pizza, and chocolate treats, available Friday, February 13, and Saturday, February 14.

Cafe Paradiso (144 West 65th Street): Savor a three-course Valentine’s prix fixe menu for $65 per person with a glass of prosecco and live music on February 14 from 5:00pm–8:00pm. Make a reservation for either Friday, February 13, or Saturday, February 14.

Jean-Georges & Nougatine at Jean-Georges (1 Central Park West): Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a choice of experiences: Jean-Georges offers three tasting menu options from $268–$458, while Nougatine features a three-course prix fixe menu for $198 per person, both in an elegant fine-dining setting.

Lincoln Ristorante (142 West 65th Street): Make it a night to remember with a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner featuring elegant Italian cuisine and wine.

MASA (10 Columbus Circle): Treat your partner to an extravagant experience at this two-star Michelin restaurant with Valentine’s Day Dinner Omakase at the Hinoki Counter or table seating, offering an exquisite Japanese menu.

Momofuku Noodle Bar (10 Columbus Circle): Lovebirds will delight in a three-course Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu for $95 per person.

Per Se (10 Columbus Circle): On Friday, February 13 or Saturday, February 14, indulge in a luxury Valentine’s tasting menu, starting with a glass of champagne, in a world-renowned three-star Michelin restaurant.

Robert (2 Columbus Circle): Book your table for a Valentine’s Day menu paired with live music and scenic views for $170 per person.

Rosa Mexicano (44 West 63rd Street): Add a little spice to your Valentine’s Day and savor Mexican favorites like Carnitas de Cazuela and Al Pastor Ribs, along with a limited selection of special menu items for the holiday.

The Smith (1900 Broadway): Make a reservation at The Smith for Valentine’s Day, and enjoy the restaurant’s regular menu, plus a selection of specials.

UNGLO (35 W 64th Street): Make it a Valentine’s night out at UNGLO with Thai favorites and creative cocktails like Mee Krob Pu, Panang Scallops, Lemon Curd, and the Love Spritz.

Sweets, Treats & Sips

Breads Bakery (1890 Broadway): Pick up heart-shaped baguettes and brioche, sweetheart sourdough, and tiramisu for two to sweeten your Valentine’s celebration. 

Boulud (via Goldbelly): Order Chef Daniel Boulud’s Valentine’s Dinner Kit, Bon Bons Pack, or Macaron Gift Box for a festive at-home celebration. 

La Maison du Chocolat (10 Columbus Circle): Share elegant Parisian chocolates crafted especially for Valentine’s Day. 

Ladurée (10 Columbus Circle): Gift Parisian-style Valentine’s confections and beautifully packaged sweets. 

Le French Wine Shop (161 Amsterdam Avenue): Toast the occasion with Valentine’s wine packs or wine-and-flower bouquets, available in standard and deluxe sizes. 

Magnolia Bakery (200 Columbus Avenue): Spread the love and treat the people in your life to festive Valentine’s sweet desserts.

Maman (152 Columbus Avenue): Ship your loved one Valentine’s cookies, from classic chocolate chip to raspberry rose, or stop by the store and get the Love Letter Tea Latte Valentine’s Day Special.

Rosetta Bakery (1928 Broadway): Find different flavors to say “I love you” with San Valentine specials.

Shake Shack (10 Columbus Circle): Sip the True Love Shake, featuring vanilla custard and strawberry purée in a crackable chocolate shell, and on Valentine’s Day, buy-one-get-one free to share with someone special.

Starbucks (1889 Broadway & 141 Amsterdam Avenue): Try seasonal favorites like the White Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cold Brew and Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino to celebrate Valentine’s Day. 

Valentine’s Cards, Flowers & DIY Treats

Paper Source (10 Columbus Circle): Share the love with creative Valentine’s Day cards, crafts, and wrapping, plus fun gifts for your partner, friends, classmates, or family. 

Target (1863 Broadway): Find everything from Valentine’s cards and flowers to sweets, small gifts, and party treats for everyone you love. 

Whole Foods Market (10 Columbus Circle), Morton Williams (2015 Broadway), Gourmet Garage (155 West  66th Street), and the Richard Tucker Park Greenmarket (open on Saturday at West 66th Street & Broadway): Pick up fresh flowers, desserts, or ingredients to create your own romantic Valentine’s dinner at home. 

Shopping / Gifts

Fashion & Apparel

Alo Yoga (10 Columbus Circle): Elevate your gift-giving with curated pieces from the Valentine’s Day gift edit and get free same-day delivery on eligible items. 

Bloch (51 Columbus Avenue): Dress like the principal dancer you were born to be with Valentine Colasante’s favorite picks from the Bloch collection. 

Fleet Feet (10 Columbus Circle): Go sporty this Valentine’s with performance-ready gear from the Valentine’s Day Collection. 

Gap, GapKids & babyGap (1988 Broadway): ​​Share the love in classic Gap style with gifts for women, girls, and little ones.

H&M (10 Columbus Circle): Explore Valentine’s gifts for women, men, kids, and beauty lovers. 

Hugo Boss (10 Columbus Circle): Suit up for Valentine’s Day with refined gifts for men and women.

J.Crew and J.Crew Men’s Shop (10 Columbus Circle): Find thoughtful Valentine’s gifts for everyone you love. 

J.Jill (160 Columbus Avenue): Shop sweet styles perfect for giving—or getting—this Valentine’s Day. 

Mango (1976 Broadway at West 67th Street): Explore Valentine’s collections for women and teen girls, with select styles up to 70% off, and an extra 15% off online purchases of over  $190 with code VDAY15. 

Lululemon Athletica (10 Columbus Circle): Find Valentine’s gifts and activewear designed for every move. 

Robert Graham (10 Columbus Circle): Discover The Valentine’s Day Edit, featuring distinctive, stylish pieces perfect for gifting or treating yourself.

Wilson (10 Columbus Circle): Serve up style with tennis-inspired Valentine’s apparel for women and men. 

Wolford (10 Columbus Circle): Add a polished finishing touch this Valentine’s season and receive a complimentary foulard on orders over $400.

Zara (1963 Broadway): Outfit the whole family in Valentine’s style with gifts for women, men, boys, girls, toddler boys, toddler girls, and babies, as well as accessories and home accents.

Jewelry, Accessories & Unique Pieces

American Folk Art Museum Shop (2 Lincoln Square): Find folky hearts, hand-stitched cushions, and unique keepsakes for your Valentine that will warm their heart and yours.

The Store at MAD (2 Columbus Circle): Go beyond the conventional with a romantic contemporary jewelry gift. 

Monica Rich Kosann (10 Columbus Circle): Surprise your Valentine with a piece of jewelry that says “you’re priceless.” 

Sunglass Hut (10 Columbus Circle): See love clearly this Valentine’s Day with stylish sunglasses for him or her.

Swarovski (10 Columbus Circle): Make hearts skip a beat with sparkling jewelry perfect for Valentine’s Day or proposals.

The Emporium LTD (20 West 64th Street): From distinctive jewelry to art and home finds, discover something special for your Valentine.

Beauty & Self-Care

Aveda (10 Columbus Circle): Iconic aromas that immerse your senses in calm and relaxation for Valentine’s Day.

​​Diptyque (10 Columbus Circle): Find a fragrance your Valentine will love. Receive a limited-edition Ceramic Blue Hearts Pin on orders of $190+ with code AMOUR2026A. Spend $350+ with code AMOUR2026B to receive the pin, a Rose Candle, and a Fleur de Peau Eau de Parfum.

Jo Malone London (10 Columbus Circle): Fragrance and home gifts to enhance romance this Valentine’s Day. 

Kiehl’s (154 Columbus Avenue): Give your special someone the gift of a refreshed routine this Valentine’s Day.

MAC Cosmetics (10 Columbus Circle): Turn up the glam with MAC’s Valentine’s collection. 

Sephora (1863 Broadway): Make it a beautiful Valentine’s with fragrance, skincare, and makeup picks for everyone on your list.

Home & Lifestyle

Pottery Barn (1965 Broadway): Set the mood at home with Valentine’s Day finds—now up to 20% off. 

West Elm (1870 Broadway): Modern Valentine’s picks for home and lifestyle, from cozy accents to thoughtful gifts. 

Williams Sonoma (10 Columbus Circle): Everything for a sweet celebration—chocolates, baking must-haves, tabletop accents, cookware, and fresh flowers.

Tech & Wellness

Apple Upper West Side (1981 Broadway): Make their everyday a little smarter with Apple favorites—from AirPods to iPads and more.

Therabody (10 Columbus Circle): Help them relax, recover, and feel their best with recovery tools and self-care must-haves—and save up to 25% during the Valentine’s Day Sale. 

TUMI (10 Columbus Circle): Travel-ready gifts and sleek accessories for wherever love takes them. 

Creative & Cultural

AMC Theatres (1998 Broadway):  Be big-screen sweet with AMC gift cards and help that special someone fall in love with the movies all over again.

​​Juilliard Store (144 West 66th Street): Strike the right note this Valentine’s Day—shop the Valentine’s Day Sale and save 20% on select items and clearance through February 15. 

Moleskine (10 Columbus Circle): For the writers, dreamers, and list-makers in your life—explore the Valentine’s Day Gift Guide filled with notebooks, journals, and planners to love.

NYPL: Write your sweetheart into a love story—add their name to a book in NYPL’s collection with a $35 Valentine’s Day bookplate dedication and celebrate a shared love of reading.

No matter how you choose to spend Valentine’s Day, Lincoln Square is full of ways to make it special. For even more ideas, check out our Neighborhood Guide and discover everything this vibrant area has to offer. While you’re celebrating in Lincoln Square, don’t miss our Magical Lights in Dante Park (Broadway and 64th Street) and Richard Tucker Park (Broadway and 65th Street), now glowing in Valentine’s Day colors.

Photo Credit –
Image 1: Monica Rich Kosann
Image 2: Paper Source
Image 3: Maman

As the Lunar New Year arrives in 2026, Lincoln Square comes alive with festivities that blend cultural tradition, world-class performance, and community programming throughout February. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, elegant music, creative experiences, or seasonal shopping and dining, Lincoln Square offers a rich slate of ways to welcome the Year of the Horse.

The Shops at Columbus Circle (10 Columbus Circle) hosts an extensive lineup of Lunar New Year offerings from Tuesday, February 17, through Tuesday, March 3. Shoppers and diners who spend $188 or more during this period can participate in the Lucky Red Envelope “Spend & Get” promotion and receive special gifts from participating retailers and restaurants when they present qualifying receipts at Guest Services. Retailers and restaurants taking part include Boggi Milano, Hugo Boss, J.Crew, Momofuku Noodle Bar, and more.

On Saturday, February 21, The Shops hosts a Year of the Horse Celebration on the second floor from 11:00am to 6:00pm, with free activities such as lantern-making, Chinese calligraphy, and Mahjong, all offered on a first-come, first-served basis. At 2:00pm that same day, a traditional lion dance performance brings good fortune, prosperity, and joy to guests in a festive demonstration of this beloved Lunar New Year tradition. 

Throughout the promotional period, visitors can explore exclusive Lunar New Year collections and seasonal experiences. Highlights include La Maison du Chocolat’s Year of the Horse Gift Boxes, perfect to share or gift; Williams Sonoma’s Lunar New Year Collection, crafted to elevate festive gatherings; Moleskine’s Year of the Horse Collection of planners and notebooks, designed to inspire creativity and new beginnings; and Ladurée’s Lunar New Year Gift Box, packed with elegant treats to mark the holiday. For culinary enthusiasts, MASA’s Lunar New Year Omakase Menu by Chef Masayoshi Takayama celebrates prosperity and longevity through a refined dining experience, available Tuesday through Saturday, February 17-21.

Ring in the Year of the Horse withThe Sound of Spring: A Chinese New Year Concert on Sunday, February 15, at 3:00 pm at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Theater (Broadway at 60th Street). Presented by The Orchestra Now, the concert features Chinese and Western symphonic music in praise of love and horses, with pre-concert instrument demonstrations and Chinese New Year activities for audience members who arrive one hour early.

For a luxurious way to celebrate, the Mandarin Oriental, New York (80 Columbus Circle) offers its “A Joyful Reunion” package, available through Sunday, March 1. Guests can enjoy a complimentary daily breakfast for two at MO Lounge, two drinks at The Bar with the exclusive Year of the Horse cocktail (Tuesdays-Saturdays), and a limited-edition Lladró horse candle. The festivities continue with a lion dance performance in the Sky Lobby on Friday, February 27, at 3:38pm and a special Lunar New Year menu at MO Lounge starting Tuesday, February 17. This seasonal stay blends refined comfort with curated touches inspired by the Year of the Horse and celebrates tradition, artistry, and new beginnings.

Beyond Deutsche Bank Center, Lunar New Year programming continues throughout Lincoln Square. On Thursday, February 12, at 4:00pm, the Riverside Library hosts a virtual teen comics chat that explores Lunar New Year themes alongside Black History Month and romance in comics and manga. Then, on Wednesday, February 18, at 3:30 pm, children ages 7–12 can participate in a Lunar New Year Craft Workshop x ALT Ally, a hands-on session celebrating the Year of the Horse. 

A major highlight of the neighborhood’s festivities is Lincoln Center’s Lunar New Year Celebration on Sunday, February 22. Attend a full day of free, family-friendly programming at David Geffen Hall (10 Lincoln Center Plaza) featuring Lion Dancers, traditional Korean music, arts and crafts, a family-friendly storytime session, and delicious food. The celebration runs from 11:00am to 3:00pm and is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, making it a great way for families and neighbors to come together and reflect the holiday’s joyful spirit.

For those seeking a more formal tribute to the new year, the New York Philharmonic’s Lunar New Year Gala takes place on Wednesday, February 25, at 7:00pm, at David Geffen Hall’s Wu Tsai Theater. Conducted by Long Yu, the concert features Chinese Kitchen by Elliot Leung, which pays homage to Chinese delicacies, among other performances. Guests may enjoy the full evening, including the concert, pre-concert reception, and post-performance dinner, or opt for concert-only admission. For more information, contact events@nyphil.org.

After enjoying one of Lincoln Square’s Lunar New Year events, make your way to Shun Lee West (43 W 65th Street, between Broadway and Central Park West) for authentic Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. For a vibrant, festive outing further downtown, the New York City Lunar New Year Parade and Festival takes place on Sunday, March 1, from 1:00pm to 3:30pm, featuring the traditional Lion Dance, dance groups, and other performances starting at Mott Street and Canal Street. 

With a mix of performances, activities, and culinary delights, Lincoln Square provides a vibrant space for all to celebrate the Lunar New Year. To add to the festivities, starting next week, the Magical Lights in Dante Park (Broadway and 64th Street) and Richard Tucker Park (Broadway and 65th Street) will shine in new Lunar New Year colors.

Photo Credit –
Image 1: Williams Sonoma
Image 2: Ladurée
Image 3: The Shops at Columbus Circle of a Lion Dancer at Mandarin Oriental, New York

The Lincoln Square Business Improvement District is always working to improve its operations to foster a clean, safe, and beautiful neighborhood. To further this goal, the BID is thrilled to welcome two talented new members—Summer Smith and Scott Etkin—to its small, dedicated team.

Summer started in August as the BID’s Information & Economic Data Manager. In this role, she is diving into New York City’s property and building databases to ensure the BID can best serve the businesses and property owners in the area, as well as locals and visitors to the district. She is also compiling detailed data and reports to improve the BID’s sanitation, maintenance, beautification, and public safety services, and is tracking our retail availability.

Summer comes to the BID directly from receiving her Master’s degree in Urban Planning at Columbia University. While there, she studied with our colleague, Matt Bauer, the President of the Madison Avenue BID, and gained hands-on experience at the NYC Department of Buildings. She also spent countless hours at the city’s Department of Finance looking through microfilms of old property deeds for her thesis on covenants as an alternative form of land use control. Originally from New Jersey, Summer left for college at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is enjoying life back on the East Coast, lives on the Upper West Side, and enjoys exploring new breakfast places and going on walks in Riverside Park, where she indulges her love of all things flowers and plants (currently her favorite type of flower is peonies).

Scott joined the BID in late August as a Marketing & Communications Manager. He is helping to spread the word about all the great things happening in the neighborhood—such as the BID’s Summer Jazz Sensations series of free concerts in Dante Park—and will be responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing a comprehensive marketing and communications program to support local businesses, cultural institutions, and BID services. Scott’s professional background is in consulting—he has ten years of experience working at firms that specialize in public relations and software design.

As a native New Yorker, he has long been interested in local issues and how the city works. It’s this interest—particularly in small businesses, sanitation, parks, and transportation—that led him to write in his spare time for West Side Rag, a local news site. Over the past three years, he has contributed more than 300 articles about notable residents and changes happening around the Upper West Side neighborhood. Scott lives with his wife and their dog in the West 70s, just north of the district. They love to get dinner at Le Botaniste and see the amazing students from Juilliard perform at Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall.

If you see Summer and Scott on the street, be sure to stop and say hello! They would love to hear about your favorite spots in Lincoln Square and what local issues matter most to you. To contact them directly, they can be reached at ssmith@lincolnsquarebid.org and setkin@lincolnsquarebid.org.

Lincoln Square is a vibrant center for the arts, where music, dance, theater, and film come together to offer world-class performances throughout the 2025–26 season. From iconic orchestras to intimate ensembles, the neighborhood is alive with creativity in every corner. Audiences can experience premieres, revivals, and innovative programming that highlight both established and emerging artists. Explore performances across the neighborhood and enjoy everything Lincoln Square has to offer this year.

New York Philharmonic
The New York Philharmonic recently began its 2025–26 season on September 9, 2025, under Music and Artistic Director Designate Gustavo Dudamel. Early highlights include the Opening Gala on September 25, followed by programs such as Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony with Korngold’s Violin Concerto from October 23-25 and the Dvořák New World Symphony from December 3–6. In the spring, Dudamel and Artist-in-Residence Sheku Kanneh-Mason perform Bloch’s Schelomo, Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite, and Ellen Reid’s Earth Between Oceans from April 30 to May 2, 2026, offering audiences a blend of iconic repertoire and compelling contemporary works. The season also features The Art of the Score, a program exploring the rich collaboration between film and symphonic music. For tickets, program details, and the full season lineup, visit the New York Philharmonic website.

Jupiter Symphony Chamber Players
Jupiter Symphony Chamber Players celebrates its 25th season with concerts at Good Shepherd Church (152 West 66th Street), which began on September 8. Concerts are every Monday at 2:00pm and 7:30pm, with the next performance on September 15 with Mozart’s Admirers. The season includes Ties to Beethoven on October 13, Loving Bach on December 15, Paris Dazzles on March 23, and programs highlighting Brahms, Schumann, Mahler, and other composers through the Grand Finale on May 11. With affordable ticket prices of $17 and $25, Jupiter offers music lovers a chance to experience orchestral brilliance while supporting its continuing mission. Find performance dates and ticket options on the Jupiter Symphony Chamber Players website.

Lincoln Center Presents
Lincoln Center Presents’ 2025–26 season is already underway, offering year-round programming that celebrates artists and culture. Highlights include a year-long tribute to composer Jeanine Tesori, the Legacies of San Juan Hill Festival (October 14–29), the return of Festival of Firsts and American Songbook, and free, family-friendly events in the David Rubenstein Atrium nearly every night. The season features both traditional and contemporary works across multiple stages, with full details available on Lincoln Center’s website.

New York City Ballet
New York City Ballet’s (NYCB) 2025–26 season at the David H. Koch Theater begins September 16, 2025, and runs through May 31, 2026. The Fall Season highlights include the NYCB premiere of Justin Peck’s Heatscape on September 25–26 and October 4–5, as well as a world premiere by Jamar Roberts for the Fall Fashion Gala on October 8. The Nutcracker® follows from November 28, 2025, to January 3, 2026. The Winter Season features world premieres by Justin Peck (January 29–February 7) and Alexei Ratmansky (February 5–25), while the Spring Season includes Christopher Wheeldon’s Continuum (May 1–20) and Tiler Peck’s world premiere on May 7 at the Spring Gala. The season concludes with Megan Fairchild’s farewell performance as Swanilda in Coppélia from May 22–31, 2026. See the full performance schedule, including galas and premieres, and purchase tickets on the New York City Ballet website.

Juilliard
Juilliard’s 2025–26 season offers over 700 performances in music, dance, and drama, with tickets priced at $50 or less, making it easy to experience the next generation of exceptional artists. The season kicks off with the return of the Juilliard Fall Festival (September 12-20) and concludes with the Juilliard Orchestra led by JoAnn Falletta. Audiences can look forward to world premieres from composers Anna Clyne, Joan Tower, Eunike Tanzil, and Paola Prestini, innovative choreography from Gianna Reisen, My’Kal Stromile, and Studio Wayne McGregor, and a full range of interdisciplinary collaborations that highlight the school’s creativity and artistry. View the complete season of music, dance, and drama performances, and secure tickets on Juilliard’s website.

Jazz at Lincoln Center
Jazz at Lincoln Center’s 38th season, Mother Africa, explores the connections between African and American musical traditions. The fall season opens September 18–20, 2025, with the world premiere of Wynton Marsalis’ Afro! at Rose Theater, alongside Somi’s Mother Africa Salon residency and Dizzy’s Late Night Sessions with Dandy Wellington and Joel Ross. Holiday programming features Big Band Holidays (December 16–21) and Sherman Irby’s A Very Irby Christmas (December 24). The season continues throughout the spring and concludes with celebratory concerts honoring jazz greats and emerging artists through June 2026. Across Rose Theater, Dizzy’s Club, and The Appel Room, the season celebrates jazz’s living, evolving legacy. Check out the full concert lineup and ticket information on the Jazz at Lincoln Center website.

Metropolitan Opera
The Metropolitan Opera’s 2025–26 season opens September 21, 2025, with the Met premiere of Mason Bates’s The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin (September 21–October 11). Other notable new productions include Bellini’s La Sonnambula (October 6–November 1), I Puritani for the New Year’s Eve Gala (December 31, 2025–January 10, 2026), Wagner’s Tristan und Isolde (March 9–April 2, 2026), Kaija Saariaho’s Innocence (April 6–29, 2026), and Gabriela Lena Frank’s El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego (May 14–June 5, 2026). Repertory revivals feature Puccini’s La Bohème (October 21–May 2, 2026) and Turandot (September 23–June 6, 2026), Bizet’s Carmen (October 28–January 23, 2026), Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin (April 20–May 16, 2026), and more. Eight productions will be broadcast globally through the Met: Live in HD series. Discover all productions, performance dates, and ticket options on the Met Opera website.

Lincoln Center Theater
Lincoln Center Theater’s 2025–26 season opens on September 26 with Ragtime, directed by Lear deBessonet at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. At the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater, the U.S. premiere of Kyoto begins previews on October 8, followed by the holiday production Amahl and the Night Visitors starring Joyce DiDonato on December 16. Later in the season, Night Side Songs previews February 14, 2026, and A Woman Among Women previews May 16, 2026, at the Claire Tow Theater. The season blends revivals, new plays, musicals, and innovative collaborations. See show schedules, performance details, and ticket availability on the Lincoln Center Theater website.

Kaufman Music Center
Kaufman Music Center’s 2025–26 season, led by Artists-in-Residence Jessie Montgomery, Jonathan Biss, and Chanticleer, celebrates innovation and artistry across music and performance. The fall season opens on September 29 with Romie de Guise-Langlois performing Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, followed by Simone Dinnerstein with Baroklyn on October 21 and the Kronos Quartet on November 14. Spring highlights include Leyla McCalla on March 27 and the Poiesis Quartet on April 10, with Jonathan Biss performing piano on May 12. Signature series include Broadway Close Up (October 27, November 17, and December 8), the New York Festival of Song (November 20, February 12, March 11, and April 7), the Contemporary Music Festival (March 15), and 100 Years of American Piano Music (June 5–6, 2026). Explore the season’s performances, series, and ticket information on the Kaufman Music Center website.

Film at Lincoln Center
Film at Lincoln Center presents the 63rd New York Film Festival (September 26–October 13), featuring a curated selection of films from around the world. The festival includes highly anticipated premieres and showcases work from acclaimed directors such as Luca Guadagnino, Jim Jarmusch, and Bradley Cooper. Beyond NYFF, the organization offers year-round programming, including screenings, festivals, and filmmaker talkbacks, highlighting both classic and contemporary cinema. Audiences can experience retrospectives, new releases, and special events across multiple venues throughout the year. Find screening times, festival details, and ticket information on the Film at Lincoln Center website.

The Chamber Music Society
The Chamber Music Society’s 2025–26 season, The Magnificent Violin, opens on October 19, 2025, with The Composer’s Violinist: Joseph Joachim at Alice Tully Hall. The season includes the Baroque Festival on December 12, 14, and 16, presenting a rich selection of Baroque masterpieces, and the Winter Festival: Violin Celebration from February 20 to March 8, 2026, tracing the violin’s evolution from Bach to Beethoven, culminating in a tribute to Fritz Kreisler. The season closes with the Schubertiade on May 17, 2026, a multi-part concert exploring Schubert’s four-hand piano music, violin-and-piano works, and the profound Trio in E-flat major. Throughout the season, audiences can enjoy chamber ensembles, lectures, mentor sessions, and a dynamic array of performances that celebrate the violin’s artistry and legacy. View concert dates, series information, and purchase tickets on the Chamber Music Society website.

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This season, Lincoln Square invites you to experience unforgettable performances, innovative collaborations, and family-friendly events across its theaters, concert halls, and film venues. Discover new voices, celebrate classics, and immerse yourself in the arts. Make the most of your visit by enjoying a meal at one of our neighborhood restaurants before or after an event—visit our Neighborhood Guide to find an eatery and plan your outing.

Photo Credit: Sara Mearns and the Company in George Balanchine’s Swan Lake. Photo credit: Erin Baiano

The Strand Bookstore’s Upper West Side location at 2020 Broadway (between 69th and 70th Streets) is giving neighbors a new reason to visit: the opening of Cafe Fred, the first ever Strand-run cafe, and a highly anticipated addition to the store.

The Strand embraces the mission of independent bookselling and serving as a community hub. The opening of Cafe Fred, equipped with window seating and a wide array of delectable bites and beverages, will bolster the Strand’s role as a community gathering place. “Every day we become more invested in and responsive to our customers and readers who are our eternal partners in this business of books,” says Kat Pongrace, a representative for The Strand. The spirit of community is embedded in the cafe’s name; Nancy Bass Wyden, the third generation owner of The Strand, named the cafe after her father, Fred Bass. As Pongrace notes, “all of [The Strand’s] business decisions are as personal as they are practical,” an ethos that has shown through in the bookseller’s commitment to the greater Lincoln Square neighborhood.

Cafe Fred is bathed in natural light, making it a perfect spot to grab a coffee, sample a pastry, and read by the giant windows. It’s a great place to meet up with friends or spend time alone with a good book. One of the unique features of the cafe is its book-inspired drink specials, which are on display next to the register. “We’re so proud to be able to make the literary cafe menu of our dreams at Cafe Fred with drinks inspired by some of our favorite reads,” Pongrace says. The cafe offers a wide array of pastries from local vendors including Leaven & Co and Colson Patisserie, an extensive La Colombe coffee menu, and grab & go sandwiches from Artisan.

The Strand is open Monday to Saturday 9:00am to 8:00pm and on Sundays from 10:00am to 7:00pm, and Cafe Fred is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm and Sundays from 10:00am to 5:00pm. If you’re a dog lover, you’ll be happy to know that both the bookstore and the cafe are dog-friendly. Stop by to see what all the buzz is about – and get your caffeine buzz while you’re at it!

In further exciting news, on Saturday, September 27th The Strand is celebrating 98 years as an independent bookseller. They will be having an in-store sale, giveaways, balloons, and activities at all of their locations. Keep up with The Strand on social media to stay tuned for more announcements about what they’re cooking up.