1. Design on a Dime Benefit

From April 20 to 23, Housing Works kicks off its annual benefit featuring a Groundbreaker Awards Dinner, an Opening Night Reception hosted by Alan Cumming and a two-day bargain sale of new merchandise from more than 60 top interior designers. Free; opening night tickets from $200. Metropolitan Pavilion

2. A Streetcar Named Desire

The X-Files actress Gillian Anderson plays Blanche in the off-Broadway classic written by Tennessee Williams, opening April 23. Tickets from $56. St. Ann’s Warehouse, Brooklyn

3. NYC Taste of the Nation

This foodie extravaganza on April 25 will have more than 50 top chefs and mixologists offering delectable samples in support of No Kid Hungry, a charity working to end child hunger in America. Tickets from $250; VIP tickets from $400.

4. PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature

Pen America once again presents one of the world’s largest literary festivals and the only one with a human rights focus. This year’s series of events from April 25 to May 1, titled Renegotiating the Narratives, focuses on Mexico’s culture and current social issues. Ticket prices vary. Citywide

5. NYC Independent Film Festival

The indie film fest April 27 to May 1 introduces the best in independent short films, feature films, music videos and animated works with screenings, panels and parties. Tickets from $15; VIP all-access passes from $250. Citywide