Sure, summer doesn’t officially begin until the end of June, but being it’s going to be an even hotter and sunnier one than usual we’re taking advantage of all the June activities in NYC already taking place before the heat smacks us in the face!
And, thankfully, there’s already a ton of fun activities going on around NYC, and we’re sharing all our fav plans with you! So prepare yourself for a fabulously, fun-filled June, packed with plenty of events to perfectly kick off summer–here are the best NYC June happenings:
Step into the 1920s at the beloved Jazz Age Lawn Party & Picnic
For years, the annual Jazz Age Lawn Party has attracted all walks of life in NYC, and get ready to slip on your pearls and adjust that bow tie once again as this time-traveling festival returns to NYC on Saturday, June 14th to Sunday, June 15th (and again on August 9th-10th!). Returning for its 20th edition, thousands of people take the ferry over to Governor’s Island to party like it’s the roaring 20s! Read more here.
Celebrate Pride at the NYC Pride March
Each June we celebrate Pride Month, and that means there will be plenty of opportunities to support the community around NYC! This year’s march will take place on Sunday, June 29th, so get ready to celebrate and show your pride! Read more about the Pride March.
…and at all the other Pride happenings taking place around NYC
Considering NYC is the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, the city makes for the perfect place to celebrate Pride Month all June long. And from art installations to food specials that give back to non-profit organizations centering the Queer community, there are endless ways to honor and support the LGBTQ+ community in NYC. Find some fun events here.
See the hit solo show “My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?)” in its U.S. debut
British actor Rob Madge—known for roles in Mary Poppins, Macbeth, Oliver!, and the 25th anniversary tour of Les Misérables—brings their hit solo UK show, My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?), to NYC for its U.S. debut, from June 12th–15th! This show is a hilarious and heartfelt journey through childhood, identity, and embracing who you truly are and a perfect way to celebrate Pride. Grab tickets now!
The Met Orchestra returns to Carnegie Hall this month
The Met Orchestra returns to Carnegie Hall this week for two unforgettable concerts led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin. The June 12 performance features an all–Richard Strauss program, while June 18 includes works by Bernstein, Dvořák, and more, with special guest soprano Angel Blue—one of the lead singers at the iconic Metropolitan Opera. It’s a rare chance to catch one of the world’s top orchestras in one of NYC’s most iconic venues.
Be swept away in music at a dreamy Candlelight Concert
Picture this: a strings ensemble, your favorite songs, a stunning venue, and of course, thousands of candles. Well, that’s exactly what you’ll experience at a Candlelight Concert! Enjoy amazing tributes to iconic artists, shows, and more at beautiful locations throughout the city–one can’t miss is Candlelight: The Best of Bridgerton on Strings, which includes your favorite melodies from Shondaland’s Bridgerton series reimagined by a talented string ensemble! It’s truly an experience like no other! Secure your spot at one today.
Read up on Juneteenth
Each year Juneteenth marks the end of enslavement of people of African descent in the United States, which happened on June 19th, 1865. In 2020, Former Governor Cuomo declared the date an official state holiday, followed by NYC schools. Learn more about Juneteenth, or what historian Blair Amadeus Imani calls “a time of remembrance, action and celebration for Black lives.”
…then join in on all the ways to honor Juneteenth
Juneteenth offers a time to remember the history that Black Americans endured, honor and center Black culture and achievements, and fight for justice and against systematic inequalities that still exist today. And from concerts and educational opportunities to variety shows and exhibitions, each year NYC hosts plenty of events and ways to celebrate the important day. Find them here.
Celebrate Miffy’s 70th birthday at the Queens Botanical Garden
Miffy is ringing in her next trip around the sun at the scenic Queens Botanical Garden, and your little ones are invited to celebrate. Author and illustrator Dick Bruna’s iconic rabbit will host a plethora of fun activities for the family on Saturday, June 21st on the grounds from noon to 4pm. Attendees can enjoy crafts, lawn games, a chalk walk, a Miffy book nook and story time — but of course — and pictures with the little bunny herself.
Head to Fanatics Fest
The immersive, interactive celebration of sports fandom features three days of activations from top leagues like the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, WNBA, and WWE, along with appearances from over 500 athletes, creators, and celebrities.
Fanatics Fest returns in June, and this time, it’s bringing something no sports fan—or curious New Yorker—will want to miss. The 2025 Fanatics Fest edition will feature the “Museum of Greatness”, a first-of-its-kind sports collection valued at over $200 million in NYC.
Delight in top tier seafood during Sea-To-Table Restaurant Week
From June 13th – 30th, enjoy the best seafood Norway has to offer during Seafood from Norway’s Sea-To-Table Restaurant Week, an experience bringing unique flavors to NYC. From salmon to cod all the way to crab, get ready to experience Norway’s freshest ocean bounty. Check out some of the participating restaurants:
Naro — Featuring Chef Yoonsoo Park’s steamed Norwegian cod with cold Gamtae noodles, fermented mustard greens, sweet and sour spicy cod sauce, and cucumber.
Oceans — Featuring Chef Andy Kitko’s Norwegian salmon with cherry tomatoes, corn, green beans, and poblano peppers.
DDO Bar — Featuring Chefs Jiho Kim and Sechul Yang’s poached Norwegian salmon with potato crumble in a nori sabayon sauce.
Attend the All About Us Festival in Jersey City
Looking for a way to celebrate Juneteenth? The All About Us Festival is a must.
Now in its third year, the celebratory event at Liberty State Park in Jersey City champions Black community through performances — this year from iconic artists like Jadakiss and Mario — as well as other fun activities.
“From the moment you walk in, it’s going to feel like joy,” said Shannon Mitchell, founder of the festival. “We created this space to remind us of what freedom looks like—being together, being seen, and celebrating who we are. Black history is American history, and this day is for all of us.”
While in the park, visitors can also expect kid-friendly programs, art activations, a great lineup of food trucks, and opportunities to shop Black-owned brands. Reserve your spot online.
When: Thursday, June 19 12-8pm
Enjoy free outdoor concerts by the New York Philharmonic, from June 4th – 7th
It’s officially that time of year when the weather allows for slow days at the park and luckily for us, the NY Phil Concerts in the Parks return from June 4th – 7th. Presented by Didi and Oscar Schafer, the iconic summer experience will be led by Gustavo Dudamel for the first time. 4 outdoor concerts will take place in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens — all scheduled to conclude with fireworks. A cool breeze, comfy blankets, whimsical music… sounds like the perfect summer evening.
- June 4th – Great Lawn, Central Park, Manhattan
- June 5th – Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx
- June 6th – Prospect Park, Brooklyn
- June 7th – Cunningham Park, Queens
All concerts take place at 8pm, tickets are not required. Check out the NY Phil website for more info!
…and pack your schedule with more of NYC’s FREE summer concerts
Thanks to all of NYC’s fabulous parks, we have plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors during the warm weather months, and enjoying incredible music performances for free is one of our favorites! From Bryant Park to Hudson River Park to Hudson Yards, the options are seemingly endless. Check out our roundup of free summer concerts here.
Compete to be the best pigeon at NYC’s first-ever Pigeon Fest
On Saturday, June 14th, we’re getting a full blown pigeon party as Pigeon Fest: a free, all-day festival celebrating National Pigeon Appreciation Day heads to the High Line! During Pigeon Fest visitors can enjoy free public programming including pigeon-themed carnival games, art workshops, a concert, and more. Plus, there will be a Pigeon Impersonation Pageant to compete for title of the best pigeon impersonator! Learn more about the festival here.
Surround yourself in a pickle paradise at the Grillo’s Pickles pop-up
The Lower East Side is turning into a pickle lover’s paradise with the return of Grillo’s Pickles from June 6th to 22nd. Rivington Street will transform in the best way possible into the ultimate pickle paradise, courtesy of Grillo’s fan favorites like pickled grapes and red onions and garlic. Like any good pop-up, we suggest preparing to snag fun merch, take a few photos, and enjoy unique moments! Learn more.
Jam out to your favorite artists at Governors Ball
NYC’s most anticipated music festival is making its return with a stellar lineup that will have you rocking out all weekend long. The festival is happening from Friday, June 6th to Sunday, June 8th, featuring unmissable performers like Tyler, the Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, and Hozier. Find out everything you need to know about Governors Ball 2025 here.
Immerse yourself in Spanish culture at Authentic Flamenco
Authentic Flamenco is making its grand return with shows that are bigger and better than before, and it’s stopping in NYC on June 6th and 8th! This year’s show takes place at the beautiful Angel Orensanz Center with notable dancer Patricia Donn, and it’s happening soon. Grab your tickets today.
Bring out your inner child at Bryant Park’s massive game of musical chairs
Each year, a massive epic game of musical chairs takes over Bryant Park, and this year it’s returning for its 11th iteration on Monday, June 2nd! Hundreds of people will compete for the title of musical chair champ, and the winner will leave with a super fabulous grand prize! Plus, the first 450 attendees to check in will receive a ticket to redeem a limited-edition Musical Chairs t-shirt at the end of the event! Learn more.
Take advantage of all of NYC’s annual summer programming
Once the weather warms up all of NYC’s beloved annual programming returns, offering New Yorkers ample opportunities to enjoy fun workouts, movie screenings, al fresco dancing, and more. Some of our favorite summer programming includes the following:
☀️ Lincoln Center’s Summer for the City
☀️ TSQ LIVE
☀️ Bryant Park Picnic Performances presented by Bank of America
☀️ Sugar, Sugar! at Domino Park
Take part in the National Puerto Rican Day Parade
The National Puerto Rican Day Parade returns to NYC for its its 68th anniversary on Sunday, June 8th. Celebrating and honoring the Puerto Rican leaders, educators, artists and celebrities that have left a cultural footprint on the nation, the event will march up Fifth Avenue!
Grab some local produce at a farmers market
New York City is no stranger to fairs, markets, and outdoor bazaars. But the endless amount of farmers markets in NYC are also a must-visit, as the level of fresh produce and goods you can find at them is unmatched! Whether you’re looking for seasonal produce, unique ingredients, fresh baked goods, or just an excuse to get outside in the gorgeous weather, here’s where you should head.
Explore the Van Gogh takeover at NYBG
The New York Botanical Garden has received a total Van Gogh makeover with real sunflowers, live music, and a luminous drone show! Now through October 26th you can wander through a vibrant lawn of yellow blooms, dance to live music and performers, and stare in awe at the night sky with the illuminated “Starry Night” inspired drone show. Grab your tickets to the dreamy experience!
Get down(ward dog) at yoga atop the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere
You may have done downward dog, but have you ever done it 1,100 feet above New York City?! Now you can as Sky-High Yoga at Edge returns for the season, giving New Yorkers the opportunity to find some zen on the very top of the city. Classes will be held three days a week from Monday, June 2nd through Tuesday, September 30th. Secure your spot and read more about the series here.
Bop around and sing your lungs out at a fabulous outdoor concert
From Pier 17’s electrifying rooftop concert series that boasts incredible views to SummerStage and more, one thing about NYC is it knows how to put on a fabulous outdoor concert! Some of our favs include:
🎶 Pier 17 Rooftop Concert Series
🎶 Elsewhere’s Summer Rooftop Series
…or listen to some of your favorite hits with a Broadway twist
Broadway Sings takes top theater acts backed by an orchestra for an epic concert series, allowing guests to hear all their favorite artists and songs with a Broadway twist! Some shows we’re eyeing currently include Taylor Swift (June 15th), Queen (June 22nd), and Ariana & Gaga (June 29th). Secure your spot here!
Do something special for the father figure in your life on Father’s Day
Father’s Day just around the corner, happening on Sunday, June 15th, and with how fast time has been flying coming up with a plan can seem daunting. But, when in doubt, you can never go wrong with a delicious meal and some drinks. Find some of the best ways to show the father figure in your life some love here.
Soak in nostalgia at the annual Astoria Park Carnival
One of our favorite summer activities is frolicking around all the festivals that pop up around NYC, and thankfully the Astoria Park Carnival is returning in all its nostalgic glory Wednesday, June 4th to Sunday, June 8th! From where it is to how much tickets cost, find out everything you need to know about the 2025 Astoria Park Carnival here.
See if you have what it takes to compete in Squid Games
Step into the thrilling immersive world of Netflix’s Squid Game and see if you have what it takes to beat iconic games like Red Light, Green Light and Warships before exploring the meticulously recreated sets from the series. You can also snap pics in the photo booth or shop for a fresh Squid Game track suit and other merchandise at the official store! Snag your tickets here.
Discover your favorite new bar or restaurant in NYC
NYC’s dining scene is constantly evolving, and though it would take 22.7 years to eat your way through all of NYC’s restaurants, more spots are constantly joining the roster! Some of our favorite new restaurants and bars in NYC include:
🐮 This spot bringing southern comfort & whimsical charm to NYC via fried saltines, cold meatloaf sandwiches, & animal-shaped décor
🍔 This viral wagyu-only burger joint founded by a pro skateboarder & Michelin chef
🍹 NYC’s new sun-drenched aperitivo escape from the Le Dive team
🐟 This sunrise to sundown eatery & cocktail lounge steeped in sun-soaked mediterranean flavors
🇨🇳 This creative new bar taking you on a journey through 9 regions of China, one cocktail at a time
Taste delicious fare at one of NYC’s many food festivals
Explore and eat your way through some of the best food NYC’s culinary scene has to offer at one of the city’s many food festivals! Some of our favorites are:
…then continue after the sun sets at an outdoor night market
With warm weather comes nights spent outdoors, and there’s no better way to celebrate some of the city’s most delicious food than at one of its beloved night markets. Some of our favs are:
Grab a drink while soaking in skyline views at a rooftop bar
Summer is just around the corner, which means rooftop drinking season is almost here! If there’s one thing about New Yorkers, it’s that we love a good drink and a view, and from Midtown mainstays to brand new spots, these are some of our favorite rooftop bars in NYC go grab a drink.
Take advantage of a car-free Fifth Ave & free admission to NYC’s iconic museums during Museum Mile Festival
Each year a portion of Fifth Avenue completely shuts down while museums along the avenue remain open for Museum Mile Festival, giving New Yorkers the opportunity to welcome the warmer weather by exploring museums with free admission and extended hours, and this year it’s returning on Tuesday, June 10th. Eight museums and cultural institutions are participating, and since some can cost upwards of $30 for admission this event is a must-do! Learn more.
Spend the day splashing in the waves
The weather is finally warming up, and that means it’s time to start working on that summer tan and splashing around in the ocean at one of NYC’s many beaches! Some of our favorite ones can be found here.
…or take a dip in the pool
On a gorgeous sunny day you certainly want to be by the water, but if sand and waves aren’t your thing why not take a dip in one of the many pools around NYC?! Whether it be one of NYC’s many public pools or a rooftop or hotel pool with fabulous views, thankfully NYC has no shortage.
Kayak for free at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s free kayaking, one of our favorite free activities in NYC, has returned for the summer once again. Free paddle sessions are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and all levels are welcome to give the sport a try! Read more about it here.
Explore this museum filled with Banksy-inspired art
Calling all Banksy-heads and street art lovers–the Banksy Museum is open in NYC and, dedicated to the mysterious artist, it has so much to see and do! The 15,000-square-foot space has the largest collection of life-size murals ever reproduced, and there are also immersive portions with projections and other visual elements. Grab your tickets here.
Frolic through whimsically stunning floral displays along Fifth Ave
Each year beautiful floral displays completely transform Fifth Avenue for the beloved annual Fifth Avenue Blooms, and this year it kicks off on Wednesday, June 11th! The month-long floral takeover will transform Fifth Ave with 400 rose plants totaling an estimated 2,500-4,000 individual stems, plus visitors will also have the opportunity to enjoy free live music on the weekends, as well as a wide range of promotions and experiences from nearby spots. Learn more.
Grab your popcorn and attend the 2025 Tribeca Festival
Film buffs get excited because the Tribeca Film Festival is making its highly anticipated return on Wednesday, June 4th and running through Sunday, June 15th. Experience everything from screenings to TV debuts, panel talks to live music. See the full 2025 schedule here.
Voyage through ancient Egypt without hopping on a flight
Horizon of Khufu is an exciting VR experience in NYC that puts you in the footsteps of pharaohs so you can explore the pyramids–and Egypt as a whole–as they stood 4,500 years ago! Along with a virtual guide you’ll journey through the Giza Plateau and venture inside the Great Pyramid, uncovering precious insight on the civilization that shaped history along the way. Grab your tickets today!
Make boozy brunch your personality
Bottomless brunch is literally the answer to any “What should we do this weekend?” regardless of the season, so it’s time to get that brunch game-face on! These are some of our favorite bottomless brunches in NYC–bonus points if you do it al fresco!
Frolic outdoors at one of NYC’s street fairs
NYC is always buzzing with energy, especially when you’re at one of the city’s many street fairs in the summertime! Whether you’re interested in the tasty bites, shopping opportunities from unique vendors, or simply the chance to socialize the day away, find some of the city’s best street fairs here.
Work on your downward dog at a free Bryant Park yoga class
One of NYC’s largest and longest-running community fitness programs, the beloved summer activity of Bryant Park Yoga presented by Halara is returning for its 22nd season! The free classes are open to the public, suitable for all levels, and will take place bi-weekly–Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Registration is required, and you can do so and learn more here.
Peruse all of NYC’s outdoor art installations
New York City is constantly adding so many fabulous outdoor public exhibitions for us to explore and, contrary to many of the city’s museums and galleries, these open-air installations are all free to check out and reside in the great outdoors of our city! Find some of our favs here.
Enjoy a meal right on the waterfront
If you don’t want to be stuck to AC-only dining once the weather gets warmer, enjoying a drink on the waterfront is a great way to keep the summer vibes going strong while avoiding the humidity. From restaurants on historic boats to secluded seafood hotspots on NYC’s smaller surrounding islands, these are some of our favorite spots on the waterfront.
Get lost in a movie with a view at Brooklyn Bridge Park
There’s no better way to celebrate the warmer weather than with Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Movies With a View. The free activity, famous for its A-list films past and present and skyline panoramas, is ringing in its 25th year with an exciting theme, “Women In Hollywood,” so make sure your picnic blankets are ready and your calendar is marked! Find the full schedule here.
Ride a coaster or two at Coney Island’s Luna Park
You have to go to one of NYC’s most famous amusement parks, Luna Park, at least once this summer. With over 50 games, rides, and attractions it’s a must-do for all ages!
Enjoy a picnic in the park
There’s no better way to celebrate the warmer weather than with a picnic at the park! Grab your picnic basket, make some sandwiches, pack a chilled bottle of wine and head to one of these underrated NYC picnic spots.
Explore Poster House with free admission and extended hours
On the first Friday of every month, Poster House, the first museum in the U.S. dedicated to the global history of posters, offers free admission and extended hours. Every First Friday is different, offering unique opportunities like workshops, performances, and activities, so you can enjoy a Friday spent here more than once! Learn more.
Catch “New York: The Ride The Show,” an all-new, high-energy variety show
“New York: The Ride The Show” is an all-new, high-energy variety show presented as a DIY Virtual Reality. Filled with original characters, interactive audience games, and celebrity guests, this one-of-a-kind production will take audience members on a “journey” to landmarks for some unbelievable experiences–think: cooing like pigeons to win bread from Central Park’s #1 pigeon lady and engaging in an actual hot dog race at digital Yankee Stadium. Read more about the show here.
Admire shipping-container-turned-photo-galleries will take over Brooklyn Bridge Park
Photoville Festival returns to Brooklyn Bridge Park from June 7th through 22nd with its signature photography exhibits displayed in shipping containers and open-air exhibitions. The annual free photography festival will feature walking tours, panels, workshops, and public programming throughout the festival duration, and will span all five boroughs. Learn more.