1. On May 20, 1932, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. She departed from Harbor Grace, Newfoundland and landed in Culmore, Northern Ireland the following day, covering a distance of approximately 2,026 miles. Her achievement marked a significant milestone in aviation history and paved the way for further advancements in aviation technology and exploration.

2. In 1842, the New York Philharmonic, one of the oldest symphony orchestras in the United States, performed their first concert on May 20th at the Apollo Rooms in lower Manhattan. The orchestra, which was initially called the Philharmonic Society of New York, has since played a vital role in promoting classical music and culture throughout the country.

3. May 20, 1873 marks the day the Brooklyn Bridge was opened for public use, connecting the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan. The bridge, which spans over the East River, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York City, and has become an iconic symbol of engineering ingenuity and urban development.

4. On May 20, 1939, the New York World's Fair officially opened in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens. The fair was a celebration of innovation and progress, showcasing the latest advancements in technology, industry, and culture from around the world. Some of the most memorable exhibits included the Futurama ride, which predicted what life would be like in the United States in the 1960s, and the Trylon and Perisphere, which stood as the fair's memorable symbol.

5. On May 20, 1985, the New York Knicks won their first-ever NBA draft lottery, earning the top pick in the upcoming draft. The team eventually used the pick to select Patrick Ewing, one of the most dominant centers in NBA history. Ewing went on to have an illustrious career with the Knicks, leading the team to two NBA finals appearances and helping to establish them as one of the premier franchises in the league.