There’s plenty to love about spring. The snow is melting, the air hasn’t taken on summer’s stifling heat, and it’s time to get out and stretch winter-stiff legs. It’s also the time the Big Apple comes alive with a plethora of festivals for every interest and taste. What’s your pleasure? Film? Patriotic pride? The arts? Or a taste of something ethnic? Here is a short list of some of the most popular festivals on the New York event schedule this spring:

Tribeca Film Festival

Reserve a week in April to take in one of the world’s premiere film festivals. With events spread across two districts, Tribeca and Chelsea/Union Square, it’s tough to choose from the many films, panels, and side events. Get organized by visiting the festival website, picking up a printed guide, or getting connected with your smart phone.

Fleet Week

Since 1984, New York City has hosted this celebration of our nation’s seaborne armed forces. Meet Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen; witness dozens of military demonstrations; take in the displays; watch the Blue Angels soar; and take your pick of ship tours. To plan your visit around other Memorial Day events, see the Fleet Week website.

Museum Mile Festival

One day a year, nine of America’s finest museums throw open their doors to the public – free! Twenty-three blocks along Fifth Avenue are closed to traffic for one of the world’s biggest block parties dedicated to the visual arts. You can even grab a piece of chalk and add your own touch of artistic flare. Click here for more information about this year’s festival.

Sakura Matsuri: The Cherry Blossom Festival

Celebrate cherry blossom season at New York Botanical Gardens, held annually the first weekend in May. This is one of the garden’s most popular events, so be prepared for crowds. Purchase tickets in advance – the festival is free with park admission. Japanese culture takes center stage with drumming, martial arts, tea ceremonies, bonsai demonstrations, folk dance, and –what else? – Sudoku. Click here for more information.

Craic Festival

Focusing on the best of Irish music, film, and comedy, the annual Craic Festival is the perfect way to start the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations a wee bit early. Featured are great Irish performers onstage and screenings of Irish films at Tribeca Cinemas.