BKLYN Yard: Your Ultimate Outdoor Drinking Destination

There’s a lot of things about New York summers I look forward to. The return of free barbecue, outdoor movies, late night bike rides, and mostly importantly, the Yard, BKYLN Yard that is. The name pretty much sums up this Gowanus dance-fest watering hole. While no one can really brag about great views of a canal, I dare you to name me a better spot for day drinking and sweaty DJ sets than this sprawling outdoor space. After another rather lazy Saturday afternoon I met up with a friend  at night after she spent several sun stroke hours at the Yard. She showed up in crazy Eli-Cash inspired face paint, reeking of whiskey and sporting a healthy tan. Needless to say she had spent her time much more wisely then I did that day.

After playing host to the wildly popular party, Sunday Best, the Yard is beefing up their event schedule so you could realistically party there all weekend. Sunday Best returns starting Memorial Day weekend with resident DJ’s Justin Carter, Eamon Harkin, Doug Singer, and a rotating roster of special guests. If dancing the day away isn’t your thing (and you’re a kill joy) Flavorpill will be hosting “Beer Garden Fridays” for the more laissez-faire crowd. Each Friday will feature a selection of local beers from 6:00pm-2:00am. Music will be provided by live bands and rotating DJ’s and I hear tacos will also be involved. Screw Ballpark, it’s not summer til you’ve had your tacos!

For the foodies and bocce enthusiasts, there’s “Summer Saturdays” which pairs local music and gourmet creations. This is definitely the more family-friendly event of the roster, but who says you can’t suck down a “yardarita” while you play with the kids? Like I said, they could wine and dine you all weekend, and as an extra incentive, there’s a two hour happy hour featuring 2 for 1 drinks and fresh sangria. The last time I played in the yard I was getting pegged with tennis balls by my brother and his sadistic posse, so this will definitely be a big step up.

BKLYN Yard
388-400 Carroll St
Between Bond & Nevins St
[Gowanus]