Summer in NYC is all about island escapes and unforgettable parties. This year, LMCC’s 25th River To River Festival is bringing back a downtown favorite.
The iconic CATCH performance series is hosting a massive 5th of July Spectacular out on Governors Island.
A post-holiday bash to remember
Forget the standard fireworks and crowded rooftops. This is a day of unruly art and celebration. Hosted by the legendary Carmelita Tropicana, the event perfectly blends community, live performance, and beer.
It all takes place on July 5, right after our big Independence Day celebrations. The lineup features an incredible roster of immigrant and progressive artists. Together, they will be playfully exploring complex themes of American identity and what the future holds.
What exactly is CATCHBALL?
The festivities kick off with a brand-new, open-air sport. From 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., you can join a free, all-ages game of CATCHBALL on the Governors Island Parade Ground.
Expect hilariously amateur fun with narrated rules (whenever they are actually remembered). Theresa Buchheister will lead the chaos, while The Vintage DJ spins tunes in between the action. It is a completely free and participatory summer game that is open to the public.
An evening of legendary performances
After working up a sweat, the party moves indoors to LMCC’s Arts Center. Starting at 5:30 p.m., you can catch raucous, thought-provoking acts that are guaranteed to keep you entertained.
The lineup includes downtown luminaries like Martita Abril, Hamed Sinno, and Sugar Vendil. Expect everything from “butoh-ish” dances to sonic art and multidisciplinary theater. It is a messy, beautiful, and completely communal live experience.
How to attend
Whether you want to be a player, a cheerleader, or just a fan, spectating and participating in CATCHBALL is totally free.
The evening performance is ticketed and runs rain-or-shine until 8:00 p.m. You can grab your spot now, with tickets starting at $33. They are available directly through the LMCC website.
