Spending time at a waterfront event is a great way to enjoy summer. Check out this list of waterfront events in Manhattan this summer, featuring everything from music to festivals to family activities and more. The best part is, many of these exciting events are free!
Be sure to check the website for each event for any updates and ticket information before heading out!
Waterfront events in Manhattan this summer
Lower Manhattan Cultural Council’s River to River Festival
WHEN: Through Oct. 26; check lmcc.net for more information on dates and times.
WHERE: Spaces throughout Lower Manhattan.
WHAT: Enjoy 23 events throughout different spaces in Lower Manhattan, ranging from music, art, workshops and more.
WANT TO GO? More information at lmcc.net.
Sunset Salsa
WHEN: Thursday nights; 6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Pier 76 at Hudson River Park
WHAT: Enjoy these salsa lessons open to dancers of all skill levels.
WANT TO GO? More information at hudsonriverpark.org.
Shoreline Strolls
WHEN: Saturday, July 12; 3 and 4 p.m.
WHERE: Meet at the salt marsh on the northern side of Gansevoort Peninsula at Hudson River Park
WHAT: Participants will learn about the amazing ecosystems of this area, which includes a sandy shoreline beach with tide pools to a pine grove, pile field and salt marsh.
WANT TO GO? The tour will last about 45 minutes.
Drums Along the Hudson
WHEN: Sunday, June 1; 11 a.m.
WHERE: Inwood Hill Park; 218 Street and Indian Road
WHAT: Enjoy an exciting day outside at this event that features drummers and dancers from around the world, native arts and crafts, an environmental tent, storytelling and more.
WANT TO GO? Event is rain or shine. More information at drumsalongthehudson.org.
Family Activity Weekends
WHEN: Weekends, Jun 7 – 29; 11 a.m.
WHERE: South Street Seaport Museum; 12 Fulton St.
WHAT: Gather up the family and head to this series to learn about the history of photography and create cyanotype pieces using specially treated paper infused with light-sensitive chemicals.
WANT TO GO? Takes place on the cobblestone street in front of 207 Water St. but may move inside if it rains.
Global Water Dances with Musical Seeds Concert
WHEN: Saturday, June 14; 2 – 6 p.m.
WHERE: Riverside Park on the Locomotive Lawn
WHAT: This event features participatory activities to advocate for safe water. Learn dances and listen to music about water and the planting season.
WANT TO GO? More information at riversideparknyc.org.
Swedish Midsummer Festival
WHEN: June 20, 5 p.m.
WHERE: Rockefeller Park; Chambers Street and River Terrace
WHAT: Head to this fun festival that celebrates the summer solstice. Attendees will make floral wreaths, enjoy a parade and delight in Swedish foods.
WANT TO GO? More information is at bpca.ny.gov.
Porch Stomp
WHEN: Saturday, June 21; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
WHERE: Nolan Park on Governors Island
WHAT: Immerse yourself in a volunteer-run music celebration featuring traditional folk, blues, roots, bluegrass and Americana genres.
WANT TO GO? More information is at govisland.com
Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks
WHEN: Friday, July 4
WHERE: TBA
WHAT: Enjoy this iconic, world-famous fireworks display that celebrates America’s independence.
WANT TO GO? More information to be announced.
River & Blues Concert Series
WHEN: July 10, 17, 24 and 31; doors open at 7 p.m.
WHERE: Rockefeller Park in Battery Park City
WHAT: Enjoy free concerts set next to the scenic Hudson River.
WANT TO GO? More information at bpca.ny.gov
City of Water Day
WHEN: Saturday, July 12; 11 a.m.
WHERE: Rockefeller Park
WHAT: Learn all about local waters and take part in a fun art project.
WANT TO GO? More information at waterfrontalliance.org.
Summer on the Hudson: Locomotive Open House
WHEN: Saturday, July 19; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
WHERE: Riverside Park South
WHAT: Check out the renovated locomotive in the park and discover Manhattan’s West Side rail yard history.
WANT TO GO? More information at nycgovparks.org.
Fly NYC
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 16; 12 p.m.
WHERE: Riverside Park – Pier 1 and 70th Street
WHAT: This all ages event will feature music and kite-flying. Kite kits provided for free while supplies last. Feel free to bring your own kit from home, too.
WANT TO GO? No kite flying experience is necessary!
Blues BBQ Festival
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 16; 1 – 9 p.m.
WHERE: Pier 76 at Hudson River Park
WHAT: This fun backyard bash is in its 25th year and will feature smoked food, music on two stages, dance lessons, hot sauces and so much more.
WANT TO GO? More information is at hudsonriverpark.org.
Sketch Jam
WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 30; 11 a.m.
WHERE: Riverside Park; Sakura Park at 122nd Street
WHAT: Calling all artists of all skill levels! Bring your art supplies to this fun observational drawing event led by artist and illustrator Ishita Jain.
WANT TO GO? All experience levels are welcome.
Wetland Wednesdays
WHEN: June 11, July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 10, Oct. 8; 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
WHERE: Randall’s Island Park
WHAT: Explore salt marsh habitat and learn about cool species that live there.
WANT TO GO? More information is at randallsisland.org.
