Melanated May with The Art Meetup: Taurus Season Open Mic

This is The Art Meetup, a NYC open mic for artists, creatives, and locals looking for something real to do in New York.

The energy is intentional but easy. You can come to perform, come to listen, or just come be around people who get it.

If you’ve been looking for things to do in NYC, open mic nights in New York City, or creative events where you can actually meet people, this is a good one to come through.

Expect music, poetry, freestyles, and moments that just happen. People move how they want. Some stay by the mic, some end up deep in conversation, some step outside and take their time.

This venue has a 420 friendly outdoor patio if you want to reset, breathe, and connect in a more lowkey way.

I started The Art Meetup to create spaces like this in NYC. Somewhere you don’t have to be perfect or already connected to feel like you belong.

This one also happens to be my birthday, so it’s a little more celebratory, a little more full, and a good night to come through.

We’re also in this space because of local NYC businesses that open their doors to community events like this. If you’re able to, support the bar, grab a drink, and show the venue some love while you’re here. It helps keep spaces like this available for all of us.

If you’ve been wanting to get out, meet people in NYC, or share something you’ve been holding onto, this is a good space for it.

Event Details

Date: May 16, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: The Rose NYC
160 West 25th Street, New York, NY

What to Expect

NYC open mic with local artists sharing music, poetry, and more

A space that feels easy to walk into and settle into

A mix of New York creatives, locals, and people coming on their own

Conversations, performances, and moments that unfold naturally

420 friendly outdoor patio in NYC

Open Mic

The mic is open.

If you have something to share, bring it.

It doesn’t need to be finished or perfect.

Sign up when you arrive or message ahead for priority.

About the Host

Hi, I’m Lailani.

I host The Art Meetup across NYC, creating creative events in New York City where artists and locals can meet, share work, and not feel like they have to build everything alone.

Admission

Free to attend, just RSVP

Donations help support the space and keep these NYC events going

Please support the bar and venue if you can with a 2 drink minimum

Smaller room, come early

Stay Connected

Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/lailani-gibson-51815476023

Full Event Calendar: https://www.lailanigibson.com/event-list

Instagram:
Follow @theartmeetup - https://www.instagram.com/theartmeetup/
@nonlocalai - https://www.instagram.com/nonlocalai

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Host or Publisher Lailani Gibson