Weekend Picks

It's the weekend before Thanksgiving. That means holiday decorations are popping up all over the city and some of our favorite holiday attractions are opening for business. Here are our top NYC event picks for the weekend of Friday, November 21st through Sunday, November 23rd, 2008:

• Gotham Independent Film Awards Series -- See the year's best independent films at the Gotham Independent Film Awards Series, featuring screenings and panels at venues around New York City through December 6th. This weekends' highlights include screenings of the nominees for the "Best Film Not Playing at a Theater Near You" award.



• Avant-Grande 2008 -- Your favorite barista may have creative talents beyond brewing the perfect latte. Starbucks employs a number of gifted artists (flexible hours and health insurance for part-timers!) in New York and DC. On Friday night, the company is co-hosting a gala event featuring their original visual art works and spoken word performances. Tickets are $20 and include cocktails and snacks.



• Bryant Park and Union Square Holiday Markets Open -- Saturday is opening day for the outdoor holiday shopping fairs in Bryant Park and Union Square. Browse for unique and handmade girs for all of the nicest people on your list.



• New Polar Rink Ice Skating Rink at the American Museum of Natural History -- The newest ice skating rink in town opens on Saturday at the American Museum of Natural History. Polar Rink features views of the planetarium and a giant, twinkling polar bear sculpture as a centerpiece.



• Canstruction --See the infinite possibilities of the humble can of corn. Canstruction is an annual display of inspired sculptures created from cans of food. Best of all, this art is 100% recyclable. All cans will be donated to area food banks after the exhibit ends on December 8th. Admission is free.