10 NYC Summer Festivals You Should Know About
Maybe you live in New York or you are just visiting, but either way it’s always great to do something new in the city.
Of course, there are so many iconic and historic sites to check out in New York. But if you are here in the summer, why not also spend some time enjoying some NYC summer festivals? These unique festivals are a great way to celebrate the diverse offerings in NYC.
I’ve created a list of the 10 festivals I’m most excited to check out this summer. Ready to celebrate summer? Let’s go!
NYC Summer Streets
During the NYC Summer Streets festival, 7 miles of NYC city streets are closed to traffic. The streets are open for pedestrians to walk, bike, or run. Honestly, it’s really fun to just be on a car-free street in the middle of Manhattan. And you can get some great photos during the festival.
Plus, the festival features popups from local museums, eateries, and fitness centers. The complete 2019 lineup hasn’t been announced, but check the website for more details as it gets closer to August.
What: 7-miles of Manhattan city streets are pedestrian only.
When: August 3, 10, 17, 2019 from 7:00am-1:00pm.
FIAF Bastille Day Celebration
The Bastille Day Celebration has been held in NYC for the past 20 years. During this festival, you can enjoy French food, wine, music, and culture while walking on a pedestrian-only stretch of 5th Ave. This family-friendly festival offers a variety of booths with games kids will enjoy.
What: French-themed festival honoring the country’s national holiday.
When: July 14, 2019 from 12:00pm-5:00pm
Coney Island Mermaid Parade
Coney Island’s Mermaid Parade is a quirky NYC summer tradition. For the past 37 years this parade has celebrated the arts on the streets of Coney Island. Watch as beautifully decorated floats, antique cars, and locals dressed in their finest mermaid attire glide down the Boardwalk.
What: Parade of artists dressed in creative mermaid costumes
When: June 22, 2019 at 1:00pm
NYC Pride
For the entire month of June, New York City will host the world’s largest Pride festival. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and many of the events will honor that historic moment.
The NYC Pride March starts at noon on June 30, 2019. This year’s march will feature over 100 floats and 550 community members, making it one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations.
What: Month-long Pride celebration plus one of the world’s largest Pride marches
When: June 1-June 30, 2019
Solstice in Times Square
This free yoga festival is held on the longest day of the year. Take this unique opportunity to practice yoga in one of the city’s most iconic spots: Times Square. Register in advance online.
In addition to yoga, the festival features a variety of vendors offering free samples of their health-conscious products.
What: Free yoga festival in Times Square
When: June 21, 2019
Harlem Week
This festival has evolved from a one-day, then one-week, and now a month-long celebration of Harlem. Events are held throughout the month that invites visitors to learn more about the culture, music, and cuisine that makes Harlem unique. The festival kicks off on July 28th with A Great Day in Harlem event.
What: Month-long celebration of Harlem
When: July 28- August 24, 2019
Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
NYC’s annual Dragon Boat Festival is one of the largest in America. During this festival, you can watch over 120 dragon boat teams compete while also enjoying Chinese food and performances. This free festival is held in Flushing Meadows Park rain or shine.
What: Traditional Chinese dragon boat races
When: August 3-4, 2019
Restaurant Week
If you’ve ever wanted to try one of NYC’s nicer restaurants, now is your chance. During Restaurant Week, a selection of the city’s top restaurants offer discounted menus. For $26 you can enjoy a 2-course lunch or for $42 you can have a 3-course dinner. Make a reservation online in advance. Many of the top restaurant book up quickly.
What: Discounted meals at the city’s best eateries
When: July 22-August 16, 2019
Lincoln Center Out of Doors
Lincoln Center’s free summer festival returns for its 49th season. During this festival, you can enjoy dance performances, concerts, and artwork. A variety of food trucks will be available during the performance. Check the website for the complete lineup.
What: Free concerts and events outside the Lincoln Center
When: July 24-August 11, 2019
Summer on the Hudson
This festival extends past summer and is packed with free events. Concerts, movies, fitness classes, and plenty of other activities are offered. Check out the schedule to figure out what events you want to attend in Riverside Park this summer. I’m looking forward to the Sunset on the Hudson concert series and Healthy on the Hudson workout classes.
What: Free concerts, movies, and more in Riverside Park
When: June 14-December 7, 2019
I hope you are getting excited about these great NYC summer festivals happening this year. Which of these NYC summer festivals are you most interested in?
If you are looking for more, check out these posts:
What to Do on Governors Island
Your Complete Summer 2019 Guide to Bryant Park
The 10 Best Ice Cream Shops in NYC
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