Top 10 Things to Do in NYC This Summer: July 12 and Beyond
Summer in New York City is an unmatched experience, filled with events and activities that cater to every interest. From iconic performances to outdoor festivals, here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 things to do in NYC this summer, ensuring you make the most of the season.
1. Lincoln Center Out of Doors 2024
Dates: July 26 – August 14, 2024
Head to Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park for free nightly performances featuring musicians, dancers, talks, and movie screenings. This festival offers diverse programming, including Chinese American Arts Council Dancers, an Afropunk night, and an acclaimed “silent” movie screening of Rocky Horror Picture Show. The highlight of this season is a day-long celebration honoring rock legend Lou Reed on July 30.
2. SummerStage Festival
Dates: Ongoing through August
Catch a wide array of free music, comedy, dance, and theater events across New York’s five boroughs. This year’s festival emphasizes jazz, with events like the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival from August 26-28. Central Park hosts many of these performances, but be sure to check out the various neighborhood parks for local flavor.
3. Shakespeare in the Park
Dates: Now through August 6, 2024
Experience Shakespeare’s plays in Central Park’s open-air Delacorte Theater. This summer features “Hamlet,” with a stellar cast bringing the classic tragedy to life. Performances run until August 6, and tickets are free but distributed via lottery and at specific locations in the park.
4. Bastille Day
Date: July 14, 2024
Celebrate French culture on 60th Street, between Fifth and Lexington Avenues. This lively street fair offers French food, wine, music, and cultural activities. Enjoy freshly made crêpes, decadent macarons, and other French delicacies while enjoying live performances and family-friendly activities.
5. Warm Up at PS1
Dates: Saturdays through September 3, 2024
Join the crowd at MoMA PS1 in Long Island City for the Warm Up concert series. This event transforms the courtyard into a vibrant dance floor with eclectic music from local and international DJs. Doors open at noon, with performances running from 3 pm to 9 pm. It’s the perfect spot for art and music lovers to mingle and dance.
6. Governor’s Island
Open Seasonally: Daily through October 31, 2024
Take a quick ferry ride to Governor’s Island for a day of exploration. The 172-acre island offers art installations, picnics, bike rides, and special events like the Jazz Age Lawn Party. Enjoy stunning views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty while partaking in various activities and relaxing in this urban oasis.
7. Rooftop Films Summer Series
Dates: Now through August 23, 2024
Watch movies under the stars at various rooftop locations across the city. The series features independent films, documentaries, and shorts, providing a unique cinematic experience. Venues include parks, piers, and rooftops, creating a magical ambiance for film lovers.
8. McCarren Hotel Pool
Open Seasonally: Daily through September 4, 2024
Beat the summer heat at McCarren Hotel’s 40-by-20-foot saltwater pool in Brooklyn. Open to the public for a fee ($40 on weekdays, $60 on weekends), it’s a perfect spot for a refreshing swim and relaxation. The trendy terrace offers a chic setting for sunbathing and socializing, with poolside service available.
9. Smorgasburg
Dates: Saturdays and Sundays through October 2024
Indulge in Brooklyn’s best food market, offering a diverse range of cuisines from local vendors. Held in Williamsburg on Saturdays and Prospect Park on Sundays, Smorgasburg is a foodie’s paradise. Sample innovative dishes like the ramen burger, artisanal ice cream, and other culinary delights while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
10. Mostly Mozart Festival
Dates: August 1 – 30, 2024
Celebrate classical music at Lincoln Center with the Mostly Mozart Festival. Enjoy performances by the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra, the country’s only orchestra dedicated to the music of the classical period. This year’s festival includes 50 premieres, dance, and theatrical events. Don’t miss the Mark Morris Dance Group’s acclaimed Mozart Dances from August 24-27.
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