CONEY ISLAND OPENING WEEKEND!

Coney Island starts the weekends-only part of its season on Saturday at noon, when Deno's Wonder Wheel Park opens its doors. They have lots of kiddie rides at Deno's, as well as the bane of all heights-fearing folk, the mighty Wonder Wheel.

Then on Sunday at noon the Cyclone opens for the season; the first 100 people in line ride for free. Book your chiropractor for Monday, score some Nathan's fries, and take your place in line. And don't miss the Band Organ Rally at Sideshows by the Seashore, featuring every kind of mechanical organ (think the music for merry-go-rounds) you can imagine. Good, noisy fun for all.

Finally, cap off the weekend back in Manhattan at the Highline Ballroom for an all-ages Opening Weekend after-party featuring Ravi the Indian Rubber Boy, the Gyronauts, and those lovable deviants from the Sideshow. Summer is a ways away, which is all the more reason for you to go.