Every year, I get excited for the summer season in New York City. Although the weather is hot, humid and hazy, there are always great summer events and festivals to attend in New York. Here are some events that you will definitely want to check out this summer. These events are free and great ways to celebrate summer in New York City.
If you are a huge rhythm and blues music fan, then you don’t want to miss the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s (BAM) R&B Festival. This free outdoor summer concert series located in the downtown section of Brooklyn will feature a variety of R&B musical acts including Van Hunt and Fishbone. For additional information, check the schedule.
R&B Festival at MetroTech
Starting in June throughout the Summer
MetroTech Commons
Flatbush Avenue and Myrtle Avenue
718.636.4100
www.bam.org
Every Monday starting on June 18, there will be free movie screenings sponsored by HBO in Bryant Park. The iconic film, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid will be shown on June 25th. The movies usually start at sunset between 8 and 9 pm. The lawn in Bryant Park opens at 5 pm for blankets and picnics. Arrive early to get a good viewing area. For the film hotline, call 212.512.5700 or visit www.bryantpark.org.
HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival
Sixth Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets
212.512.5700
www.bryantpark.org
Lincoln Center Out of Doors will feature a series of free events including live music, culture and performances from July 25th through August 12th. Performances include the Chinese American Arts Council Acrobatic Group and Joe Hurley’s All-Star Irish Rock Revue. For additional information, check the schedule.
Lincoln Center Out of Doors
West 62nd Street between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues
212.875.5000
www.lcoutofdoors.org
The Gansevoort Summer Series is a popular weekly pool party that takes place every Sunday afternoon during the summer. While you are in the pool, you can listen and groove to the latest music played by renowned DJs. For additional information, visit the web site.
Gansevoort Summer Series
420 Park Avenue South at 29th Street
646.380.5315
www.gansevoortsummerseries.com
On August 4, the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival will take place at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens. This annual free sporting event will feature colorful, dragon-shaped boats racing across Meadow Lake. Attendees can also listen to live music, view martial arts demonstrations and eat delicious ethnic food. This event is great for the entire family.
Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
111th Street to Van Wyck Expressway
718.767.1776
www.hkdbf-ny.org
