As warmer weather approaches, the list of outdoor activities grows accordingly. New Yorkers can finally shake off their winter blues and venture outside to take in the Earth’s rebirth. While spending a day in one of New York City’s many beautiful parks is a more than acceptable way to spend a spring afternoon, it’s also important to take advantage of the many other events, festivals and exhibits the city provides during the early months of spring. Here are some of the best ways to kick off the new season.

Macy’s Flower Show 

Also located in Midtown, the annual Macy’s Flower Show is a true signifier for the beginning of spring in the city. Seeing all the flowers in bloom fully captures the essence of spring and gets people excited for the warmer weather that’s just around the corner. This year’s show will be running from March 26 to April 10 and is free and open to the public during store hours.

Nowruz Persian Festival and Parade 

Nowruz is an ancient Persian holiday with Zoroastrian roots that celebrates the spring equinox. This festival of spring is celebrated by thousands of people throughout the Middle East, the Balkans and Central Asia. While the official day of Nowruz is March 20, the holiday lasts for weeks. Those who celebrate take this time to be with loved ones, commemorating the beginning of a new season after the long cold winter. Organized by the Persian Parade committee, this annual celebration takes place on April 23 at noon and is free and open to all.

Governors Island Egg Hunt

The island’s first-ever large egg hunt of its kind is being hosted by the Trust for Governors Island and the Friends of Governors Island. Organizers will be hiding 10,000 wooden painted eggs all around the island that the participants must search for. Open to everyone and completely free to attend, the event will also feature a magic performance, arts and crafts projects, a puppet show, food and drink and an Island-wide scavenger hunt that anyone can participate in. It will take place on April 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Indoor Orchid Show (New York Botanical Garden, Bronx)

The New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show is perfect for those brisk spring afternoons, the ones where it’s not quite hot enough to spend the day outside, as it takes place indoors in a greenhouse. Designed by artist Lily Kwong, the orchid show runs through April 23. When you purchase tickets to the show, you will also receive access to the rest of the garden. Feel free to explore the grounds and other gardens to your desire. Tickets are $31 per person with a valid student ID and can be purchased online through the NYBG’s website. 

Sailing Around the City 

For the more adventurous people out there, this activity is the perfect way to spend a spring afternoon. Located on Pier 5, Brooklyn Sail offers group sailing around Brooklyn and Manhattan for up to six people at a time on their sailboat, The Enchantress. The sailing season officially begins on April 2, and rates differ depending on how long you rent out the boat. On average, a two-hour and 30-minute boat ride costs $75-$85 per person. If you want to celebrate the end of winter with a little bit of luxury, this is the way to do it!