The Verdict
The Lincoln Center Festival showcases rarely-performed operas, international dance companies, theatrical extravaganzas and the ubiquitous New York Philharmonic for a celebration of all things artistic.

Tip Sheet One of New York's Best Nominated for best arts festival because with fewer insects than Tanglewood and more available seats than Glimmerglass, the Lincoln Center Festival is the summer arts festival of choice. Eat Out Lincoln Center's food is, to be kind, not worthy of repeat performances. You're better off with the three O's: neighboring eateries O'Neals', (for the chicken pot pie), Ollie's Noodle Shop (for the vegetable dumplings) and Orloff's (for the enormous open-faced Reuben sandwich).

The Scene
Festival audiences are a curious mix of bored socialite and musical neophyte. Since ticket prices are often cheaper (and subscribers fewer), New Yorkers looking to beat the heat often fill up the seats, exposing their ears to unfamiliar, modern composers, week-long Chinese operas and Robert Wilson. Between performances, mill around the plaza, munch on incredibly expensive brownies (an L.C. trademark) and stare at the odd sculptures which complement the Center's already-formidable collection of modern art.

History
Until 1996, what is now called the Lincoln Center Festival was called Serious Fun!, a July event where the resident companies of Lincoln Center invited obscure performing artists to make use of the massive complex on the Upper West Side.

In 1996, "Serious Fun!" gave way to the more pompous "Lincoln Center Festival." The New York Philharmonic took part, presenting cycles of works by Hans Werner Henze, Ludwig Van Beethoven and, in the 2000 season, Olivier Messiaen. This year features dance companies—the Bolshoi, Alvin Ailey and a new work by choreographer extraordinaire Bill T. Jones. —Paul J. Pelkonen