Brooklyn’s greater event calendar is annually rich with a wide variety of cultural gatherings. From concerts and festivals to beloved traditions and events held in spaces like Prospect Park and Downtown Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, there’s a lot to look forward to this year. Here’s a brief guide to some of the Brooklyn events we’re most excited about in 2023.
Concerts Throughout The Borough
Brooklyn is a musical destination that’s rivaled by few. From its impressive selection of performance halls to a unique lineup of artists, there’s a lot for travelers to consider. This year we’re excited to see Weyes Blood at Brooklyn Steel on March 3rd, Maya Hawke at Music Hall of Williamsburg on March 12th, and the Brownstone Jazz Ensemble Concert Series beginning on June 23rd.
Brooklyn 2023 Festivals
As well as Brooklyn does concerts, this borough also has a strong festival scene. Brooklyn events we are looking forward to in 2023 include the summer-long BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn Festival, the Elrow NYC: Summer Festival from July 22nd-23rd, and AfroPunk in September. For something different, check out the food and wine event Brooklyn Crush: Spring Edition on May 7th. Come fall, head to the Brooklyn Book Festival on October 1st, and the Brooklyn Folk Fest from October 20th-23rd.
Prospect Park Traditions
Prospect Park is the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, and every year it draws crowds for a fun variety of events. This year you could check out or participate in the NYCRUNS Prospect Park Half Marathon & 5K on April 2nd, concerts throughout the spring and summer at the Prospect Park Bandshell, and during spring and summer Prospect Park will also play host once again to the decadent Smorgasburg food hall pop-up.
Barclays Center Events
The relatively young Barclays Center has fast become the borough’s top-rated arena space. This year it will feature a ton of fantastic shows in addition to home games for the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets. We’re looking forward to the Jurassic World Live Tour from February 24th-26th, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band on April 3rd, and Blink 182 on May 24th.
The Holiday Season in BK
From performances of classics like A Christmas Carol to age-old traditions like public menorah lightings for Hanukkah — Brooklyn is a magical place during the holidays. For those visiting during winter, check out some of our recs from this guide to celebrating the holidays Brooklyn style.