Experience the joy of movement and dance. Led by former and current members of the internationally renowned modern dance company, Limon Dance. Open to all levels.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 11:00 am

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park Lawn (in Bryant Park)

Join us for a day of great healthy living information and services like blood pressure and glucose readings.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 2:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 599-5707

Location: Metropolitan Recreation Center

Let's enjoy the trees in Fort Tryon Park and learn their names too. Spend some time with Dr. Leonisa Ardizzone of Storefront Science to examine trees and learn to use dichotomous keys to figure out their names.

Limit of 15 children. You must pre-register.

Please register in advance by emailing below with "Register" in the subject line and in the body of the e-mail the parent/guardian name, child's name and age and the best e-mail to reach you back at.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 11:30 am

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

Location: Heather Garden (in Fort Tryon Park)

See thousands of blooming trees, shrubs, bulbs, and perennials with the Garden staff. Tours are free and meet at the Vanderbilt Gate at 5th Ave. between 104th and 105th Streets. No reservations needed.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 12:30 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Conservatory Garden (in Central Park)

Whether it’s your first walk or your hundredth visit, High Line Greeters help you discover a new side of the High Line.

The High Line Field Station is a mobile information cart, staffed by High Line Greeters, a group of knowledgeable volunteers who answer your questions and provide information about the park’s history, design, landscape, and more. The Field Station is also stocked with free resources, like monthly bloom lists, seasonal High Line Art maps, and information about upcoming free events and activities for the whole family.

The High Line Field Station is open Thursdays, from 1:00 – 7:00 PM, and Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, between Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, September 29. The High Line Field Station will be open on Memorial Day (Monday, May 27) from 1:00 – 7:00 PM.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: Chelsea Market Passage (in The High Line)

Hiking programs feature intensity levels ranging from light (a leisurely stroll on mostly paved paths), moderate (longer, faster paced hikes on rugged terrain), to vigorous (long distance, with hills and rugged terrain). For all hiking programs we recommend wearing comfortable shoes or boots, and packing water and a light snack.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 967-3542

Location: Bloomingdale Park Playground (in Bloomingdale Park)

Join Shape Up NYC for a free outdoor Zumba class each week at West Harlem Piers! No registration is required, just show up ready to work out! Zumba is a fusion of Latin, International and popular music dance themes creating a dynamic, exciting, effective fitness system! The routines feature aerobic, fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body with easy to follow dance steps.

Shape Up NYC (an NYC Parks program run in partnership with Equinox, NYC Service, and Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield) offers more than 175 free fitness classes every week at locations across the five boroughs to help New Yorkers get and stay fit.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 12:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: West Harlem Piers Park

Take a game break with an eclectic selection of favorite tabletop games for free. From scrabble and mancala to dominoes and more.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: 40th Street Plaza (in Bryant Park)

Test your ping pong skills at one of two state-of-the-art tables. Paddles and balls are provided free of charge. Sign up with an attendant in the park to reserve a time slot.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Ping Pong Court (in Bryant Park)

Reading, writing, and literary happenings related to the written word – under the London Plane trees – in the open-air Reading Room.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

On It's My Park Day, the Friends of Graniteville Quarry will be cleaning, raking, and weeding at Graniteville Quarry. Volunteers will also be creating a wood chipped path leading up to the Rock Quarries.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 2:00 pm

Contact phone: (917) 805-6322

Location: Graniteville Quarry Park

Bike New York & Bike and Roll partner to provide a Pedal Stop in Riverside Park providing rider-assistance-and-information stations open to all cyclists free of charge.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 4:30 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Riverside Park South

From Porcelainberry to Multiflora Rose and Oriental Bittersweet the Highbridge Forest Crew works to remove these invasive plants and others from the park and to care for recently planted native trees. The Forest Crew will learn basic invasive and native plant identification, proper removal techniques and an overview of NYRP’s approach to urban reforestation. Anyone interested in forest ecology, invasive plant removal and urban forests should attend and join the Forest Crew in their work every Saturday afternoon.

RSVP by e-mailing volunteer@nyrp.org

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 2:30 pm

Contact phone: (917) 291-6436

Location: Laurel Hill Terrace (in Highbridge Park)

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 378-2061

Location: Crotona Nature Center (in Crotona Park)

Come out for a fun day with rides, arts and crafts, pet microchipping, giveaways and much much more.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: 33rd Road and 215th Place (in Crocheron Park)

Follow Prospect Park Audubon Center staff as they explore the wilds of Prospect Park. Look for the orange tent in the Nethermead.

Schedule:

• 12 p.m. Introduction to Bird Watching. Led by the Brooklyn Bird Club. (Saturdays Only).
• 1 p.m. Animal Encounter
• 2 p.m. Nature’s Helpers
• 3 p.m. Nature on the Go! – Pond Prowl
• 4 p.m. Discovery Tour

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: The Nethermead (in Prospect Park)

Justin the Magician visits!

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Sit by the swamp for a spell and enjoy a story about the critters that live nearby. Suitable for ages 3-6 with adult. Registration required.

Start time: 1:00 pm

End time: 2:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 351-3450

Location: 200 Nevada Avenue (in High Rock Park)

Leap on over for ribbeting stories, fun & games. Led by the ever-so-stylish and frogtastic Flaubert himself.

Start time: 1:00 pm

End time: 2:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Le Carrousel (in Bryant Park)

The Sherman Creek Compost Site keeps nutrient-rich compostable materials from ending up in land-fills and transforms them into finished compost that can be used to amend poor soils and help new plantings. As part of the Compost Crew you will learn about New York Restoration Project’s Composting Program; how to create windrows with compost from the Inwood Green Market; and how to sift finished compost so that it can be used in our community gardens and parks.

Please RSVP by e-mailing volunteer@nyrp.org.

Start time: 1:30 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (917) 291-6436

Location: Swindler Cove Park

Tour Riverside Park South's open air gallery and see the 3rd year presentations of the Art Students League Model to Monument public art project. Seven sculptures by accomplished artists throughout all have information plaques with call in numbers to learn more. Join us for an opening reception and tour with the artists on June 13th at 2pm and tour on September 14th at 11am.

June 2013 – May 2014 viewable during park hours.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Riverside Park South

Please join the Padre Plaza Success Community Garden on there opening day extravaganza event. Featuring live entertainment, face painting, nutritional healthly cooking demonstrations, garden and carpentry workshops, food and drinks and games.

Venders: Citi Bank, Health First, The osborne Association, Bronx Green-Up and more.

Sponsoered by: Padre Plaza Success Garden, The Osborne Association and Saint Ann's Cafe.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Padre Plaza, Success Garden (in Padre Plaza)

This summer marks the ninth annual global beats festival with GlobeSonic Sound System, comprised of DJs Fabian Alsultany, Derek Beres and Bill Bragin.

GlobeSonic on the Hudson 9 will be the continuation of this epic, free outdoor dance party sponsored by The City Parks Department Summer on the Hudson. Joined by percussionist Jimmy Lopez, the trio will merge modern international sounds from the Middle East, Latin America, Africa, Jamaica and beyond on musical foundations found in EDM, dancehall, funk, electronica, house, and much more.

Start time: 2:30 pm

End time: 10:30 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Pier I (in Riverside Park South)

We camp to create lasting memories, connect to the natural world, and to bond with our families. Camping affords us the opportunity to unplug from the diversions of everyday life and to laugh and play together. The Urban Park Rangers celebrate the tradition of camping throughout the spring and summer and we look forward to welcoming your family.

Participants are chosen by lottery. To enter your name in the lottery visit the link below on Wednesday, June 5.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (212) 628-2345

Location: Central Park

Hailing from St. Albans, and originating in 1961, The Zombies are a legendary English Rock band. Led by Rod Argent on piano and Colin Blunstone on vocals, the band scored US hits in the mid and late 1960s with “She’s Not There,” “Tell Her No,” and “Time of the Season.” Their 1968 album, Odessey and Oracle is ranked 80th on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time." In 2011, The Zombies released their fifth studio album, Breathe Out, Breathe In. This latest album enhances the legacy of this monumental rock group with The Independent declaring, “…an authentic 1960s prog-pop tone is sustained through Argent's surging organ and sly piano, combined with the layered harmonies of Blunstone, whose voice seems impressively unravaged by time.”

Coming together in 2009, Django Django is a British group that met at art school in Scotland and has its roots planted in London, England. This adventurous Rock group melds indescribable electronic flourishes to live instrumentation. Consisting of four members, Django Django’s debut self-titled album, has been voted by Rolling Stone Magazine as 26th in its “50 Best Albums of 2012” list. Each track contains its own nation of harmonies, rhythms and textures. Django Django’s story looks set to be a long and compelling one. By banging together their thirst for adventure and their exacting high standards, they’ve produced an album that seems to have everything, but on which everything never seems too much.

Just one listen to Adam Green & Binki Shapiro is enough to become enchanted. With deceptively pretty arrangements that echo the emotions of late-sixties Folk-Pop and an easygoing rapport between singers, this duet's collaboration may seem like the perfect accompaniment to a sunny summer’s day, Southern-California style. But it works even better as a comforting soundtrack at the end of a dark, lonely night in the big city. The atmosphere the pair conjures up with strummed guitars and discreet layers of synths indeed suggests romantic possibility, but the lyrics are more sweetly melancholic, gently but candidly addressing betrayal, incipient heartbreak, and conjugal discord. It’s an approach that makes for compelling repeated listening, as the intimate dramas reveal themselves, and it’s one that surprised even Green and Shapiro as their self-titled debut album went on sale in January 2013.

A New Yorker by birth and Albanian by roots, deejay Modest P is best known for his long time Saturday night residency at the legendary East Village club Nublu. He is also known for being one of the founders of the seminal Easy Lover loft party and the now defunct Water Taxi Beach party in Long Island City, sharing the decks with world class DJs such as Carl Craig, Grandmaster Flash, Prins Thomas, and many more. He has performed at many venues in NYC and around the world. Modest P, or Petrit Pula as he is known by his real name also heads the Nublu record label.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone:

Location: Rumsey Playfield (in Central Park)

7:00 PM – All Levels Open Dance Master Class by: Calvin Wiley
8:00 PM – Performance

“Speak” is a multi-media concert and dance piece inspired by the songs of artist Marla Mase's acclaimed album, Speak Deluxe. Combining live music, spoken word, dance and visual imagery, choreographer Adrienne Hurd melds contemporary and modern dance forms in this one of a kind show. Through Hurd's powerful portrayal of a woman's confinement, sexuality, body image, trauma, oppression and freedom, she celebrates the raw reality of the human condition as expressed through the eyes, bodies, and voices of women. Through the expressive movements of a troupe of seven dancers, each of whom has a distinct voice and tale in the mini-stories, the dancers will explore the archetypes that make up the idea of what it means to be a modern woman.

The music, co-written by Marla Mase and Tomás Doncker is an integral part of “Speak” and features elements of Rock-n-Roll with World Beat, Punk, Funk, Electronica, Reggae and Soul and will be performed live at each performance with both Mase and The Tomás Doncker Band.

Marla Mase is a writer/performer/producer/singer/songwriter from New York City. Her songs, a mix of World Beat, Spoken Word, Funk, R&B, Punk, Soul, and Classic Rock-n-Roll are infused with Global Soul, the signature sound of Tomás Doncker, her guitarist, co-writer and producer.

Tomás Doncker, a musician that has performed at SummerStage in 2012 with the production, Power of Trinity, has expanded his musical vision of “Global Soul” drawing influences from numerous musical sources, including East/West Africa and the Caribbean and fused them into something all his own.

Adrienne Hurd has performed in several Broadway shows and has also choreographed dance pieces for some of the world’s largest programs, such as The Ailey School Junior Division, Professional Performing Arts School, The United Arts Counsel, American Ballet Theatre summer intensives and Nomad Contemporary Ballet Company.

James Jankiewicz has been a filmmaker for over 20 years, having worked in all aspects of production and post-production. He is the founder of VideoBiopics, a full service production company dedicated to telling stories, and his background includes work on all kinds of films including features, corporate, sports, and the arts.

Sara Berg has been a director, producer, dramaturge and actor in theatre, radio, television and cabaret. She was Co-Artistic Director for the Titans Theatre Ensemble, and directed A Brief Night Out for Marla Mase and Tomás Doncker in 2012.

Master Class: Join acclaimed fitness and dance choreographer, Calvin Wiley for a high energy, stylistically diverse dance class.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 9:30 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Herbert Von King Park

Join Silvana Pizzuti to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels.

Start time: 8:00 am

End time: 9:00 am

Contact phone: 311

Location: Soldiers and Sailors Monument (in Riverside Park)

Grab a pole and relax on the Harlem Meer while you wait for a bite from one of the many species of fish that live in its diverse aquatic ecosystem! Poles available to borrow; must release fish after catching them. Free for families and individuals; groups larger than 5 must reserve at least 2 weeks in advance.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 860-1370

Location: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (in Central Park)

Local, national, and international tournaments organized by La Boule New Yorkaise. Visit LBNY's website for more information and registration details.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 6:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park

Kids (ages 4+) and adults compete. Pre-registration recommended at our website below. On-site registration at 9am.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 3:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Whether it’s your first walk or your hundredth visit, High Line Greeters help you discover a new side of the High Line.

The High Line Field Station is a mobile information cart, staffed by High Line Greeters, a group of knowledgeable volunteers who answer your questions and provide information about the park’s history, design, landscape, and more. The Field Station is also stocked with free resources, like monthly bloom lists, seasonal High Line Art maps, and information about upcoming free events and activities for the whole family.

The High Line Field Station is open Thursdays, from 1:00 – 7:00 PM, and Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, between Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, September 29. The High Line Field Station will be open on Memorial Day (Monday, May 27) from 1:00 – 7:00 PM.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: Chelsea Market Passage (in The High Line)

New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. From falcons and salamanders, to deer and seals, wildlife viewing opportunities exist year-round in all of our parks and beaches. Wildlife viewing is a perfect activity for any age. Today wildlife viewing is recognized as one of the nation’s fastest growing activities. Our Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in New York City.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 378-2061

Location: Orchard Beach Nature Center (in Pelham Bay Park)

Our trained Urban Park Rangers will lead you on canoe adventures that range from the gentle waters of protected lakes, to the challenging open waters of rivers and bays. On an Urban Park Ranger canoe program, you can go from novice to expert in one just one summer.

Children 8 years old and up are welcome.

Skill Levels:

• Basic: Great for all skill levels, including children 8 years and older.
• Intermediate: Some experience preferred.
• Advanced: Experience required.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 846-2731

Location: Bayswater Park

The food trucks are back! Head to Grand Army Plaza on the first and third Sunday of every month to sample treats from New York’s best food trucks.

Visit our website for a list of participating trucks.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 5:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Grand Army Plaza

The food trucks are back. Head to Grand Army Plaza on the first and third Sunday to sample treats from New York’s best food trucks. Exceptions: May 19 and September 1; Food Truck Rally will take place on May 26 and September 8 instead.

All trucks are members of the New York City Food Truck Association.

Mexicue

Red Hook Lobster Pound

Big D's Grub Truck

Miami Food Machine

Rickshaw

Chinese Mirch

Mike n willies

Souvlaki Gr

COOLHAUS

Milk Truck

TAIM MOBILE

Eddies pizza

Morris Grilled Cheese

The Treats Truck

gorilla cheese nyc

Mud Truck

Toum

Green Pirate Juice Truck

Nuchas

Valduccis Pizza

Kelvin Slush

palenque

Van Leeuwen

Kimchi Taco Truck

Phil's Steaks

Wafels & Dinges

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 5:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Grand Army Plaza

Take a game break with an eclectic selection of favorite tabletop games for free. From scrabble and mancala to dominoes and more.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: 40th Street Plaza (in Bryant Park)

Test your ping pong skills at one of two state-of-the-art tables. Paddles and balls are provided free of charge. Sign up with an attendant in the park to reserve a time slot.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Ping Pong Court (in Bryant Park)

Practice Chinese Chess outdoors in the park, where it is traditionally played in cities throughout China. Unlock the secrets of Xiang Qi (Chinese Chess) at our weekly free clinic in the Bryant Park Games Area, or challenge an international Xiang Qi champion visiting from the United East Athletics Association.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: 40th Street Plaza (in Bryant Park)

Reading, writing, and literary happenings related to the written word – under the London Plane trees – in the open-air Reading Room.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Follow Prospect Park Audubon Center staff as they explore the wilds of Prospect Park. Look for the orange tent in the Nethermead.

Schedule:

• 12 p.m. Introduction to Bird Watching. Led by the Brooklyn Bird Club. (Saturdays Only).
• 1 p.m. Animal Encounter
• 2 p.m. Nature’s Helpers
• 3 p.m. Nature on the Go! – Pond Prowl
• 4 p.m. Discovery Tour

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: The Nethermead (in Prospect Park)

Laurel Hill Terrace is a hidden gem in Highbridge Park; the elegant stone staircase offers spectacular views of the Harlem River and the Bronx and is surrounded by ornamental native plantings. Spend an afternoon at the Terrace controlling invasive plants and weeding in the surrounding garden beds.

Start time: 1:00 pm

End time: 3:30 pm

Contact phone: (917) 291-6436

Location: Sherman Creek Park (in Sherman Creek)

Scandia Brass Quintet.

Music by Scandinavian composers Anders Koppel, Esko Heikinen, Asgeir Steingrimsson Jukka Vitasaari, Edvard Grieg and Oscar Borg.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

Location: Billings Lawn (in Fort Tryon Park)

Tour Riverside Park South's open air gallery and see the 3rd year presentations of the Art Students League Model to Monument public art project. Seven sculptures by accomplished artists throughout all have information plaques with call in numbers to learn more. Join us for an opening reception and tour with the artists on June 13th at 2pm and tour on September 14th at 11am.

June 2013 – May 2014 viewable during park hours.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Riverside Park South

Mastering any new skill requires practice and patience. Fishing programs help develop these skills while connecting you with nature. Our experienced Rangers teach the ethics of fishing and the ecology of our waterways on every fishing program.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 421-2021

Location: 69th St Pier (in American Veterans Memorial Pier)

SummerStage Kids presented by Disney presents Brooklyn Family Day, a day dedicated to engaging children and their families through engaging performances! Experience a variety of performances featuring bubbly and melodic Soul music, a unique blend of dance and storytelling and fun fitness activities . Families will also have the opportunity to participate in face painting, carnival arts workshops and more!

Shine and The Moonbeams is family music's first Soul band. They bring a fresh soulful perspective to the world that belongs to families all across the planet. Take two outstanding NYC musicians with eclectic musical tastes and influences, combine their unique perspectives, add a backing band, and witness the result: a soulful, groove-heavy R&B musical extravaganza in a Rock and Roll package, capturing the sweetness, uncertainty, and simplicity of youth.

Something Positive Afro Caribbean Dance Theater is a vibrant, inter-generational performing arts organization dedicated to the art and culture of the African Diaspora. Utilizing a unique blend of poetry, storytelling, theater, music and dance, Something Positive specializes in multimedia performing art presentations. The organization believes that culture is our finest resource and they have been continuously praised for “incorporating culture and education with entertainment.”

Born in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, DJ Hard Hittin Harry has made his mark as a well-renowned and sought-after DJ for events and parties. Harry has held residencies at numerous venues and was featured on FOX 5 Good Day New York three times as the on-air DJ in addition to numerous media accolades.

Start time: 4:00 pm

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Herbert Von King Park

Listen to the sounds of your favorite soul and R&B classics. Sponsored by Council Member Eric Ulrich

Start time: 5:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 235-4100

Location: George Seuffert Bandshell (in Forest Park)

Learn to dance like a pro at salsa, cha-cha and bachata lessons and group social dances led by master teachers from the Piel Canela Dance and Music School featuring DJ Ray Colon.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time: 9:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Pier I (in Riverside Park South)

With hard-hitting beats, politically aware rhymes, deft lyricism and strong song concepts, Dead Prez emerged in 2000 as one of rap’s most politically strident outfits. Consisting of Stic.man and M-1, Dead Prez’s music provided a voice for the voiceless, a sobering look at the global power structure that was crippling billions of people internationally and millions of Americans domestically. Individually and collectively, Stic and M-1 have been involved in political and community activism, pushing for progressive education for all people, teaching the merits of fitness and eating healthily and illustrating changes needed in American society and throughout the world. The duo’s first two studio albums, 2000s Lets Get Free and 2004s RBG: Revolutionary But Gangsta, were accompanied by four acclaimed Turn Off The Radio Mixtapes and solo albums. In 2012, Dead Prez released their latest album, Information Age.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 9:30 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Herbert Von King Park

Brazilian cinema is celebrating the 11th edition of the Brazilian Film Festival of NY. This annual event honors the best and the brightest of Brazil’s innovative new cinema. As is tradition, the closing night film of the 11th Brazilian Film Festival of NY, presented outdoors at SummerStage in Central Park, will feature a performance by songstress Preta Gil, followed by the animated film, “Rio 2096: A Story of Love and Fury.”

Preta Gil, the daughter of famous Brazilian singer and Ex-Minister of Culture, Gilberto Gil, has developed a unique personality while showcasing her ability to produce, sing, act and write songs. Since the start of her career in 2003, Gil has been mixing various genres and rhythms into her own songs, including elements of Folk, Samba, MPB, and Rock. In 2012, Gil released her 4th album, Sou Como Sou (As Am I), which celebrates 10 years of Gil’s illustrious career. Gil’s latest performance, O Bloco de Preta, has brought more than 300,000 people to Rio’s Carnival in 2013.

Written and directed by award-winning filmmaker and scriptwriter Luiz Bolognesi, Rio 2096: A Story of Love and Fury, is the first feature-length animated film to participate in Première Brazil, the competitive exhibition of the Rio Film Festival, in all 14 years of the festival’s existence. Targeting both youngsters and adults, with a graphic novel lineament and language, the film revolves around the love between Janaína and an Indian warrior who, upon dying, takes the form of a bird. For over six centuries, the couple’s story flourishes, passing through four phases of Brazil’s history: colonization, slavery, military regime and the future in 2096, when a war over water takes place.

Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil as the son of a musician father, DJ Just Marcelo believes we are part of the place/city/country we live in. He incorporates different music styles that reflect where he came from, where he currently resides and all of his life experiences into his sets.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 10:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Rumsey Playfield (in Central Park)

Erik Benson’s paintings depict the landscape of everyday metropolitan life, created with thousands of shapes hand-cut from dried sheets of acrylic paint. Benson uses this painstaking compositional technique to capture the complexity of urban development, with its interplay of construction and creative destruction, density and emptiness. Familiar cityscapes emerge as more complex than they initially appear.

Originally I was interested in creating a painting vocabulary that depicted the plasticity and temporality of unexamined things such as playgrounds and construction sites,” says Benson. “These interests have been growing into ideas and concerns that deal with the urban landscape, such as how cities grow and shrink, and what these issues mean to the inhabitants.”

In these vivid new paintings, Benson considers the role and impact of playgrounds, trees and parks within evolving communities, often setting the saturated colors and bold shapes of play equipment and dynamic tree branch patterns against the muted backdrops of the surrounding buildings. Inspired by his neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn, he creates works that are not precise representations, but rather archetypes, at once foreboding and optimistic.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 5:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 360-8163

Location: Arsenal (in Central Park)

Learn to play pétanque, the popular European game anchored in precision, patience, and camaraderie from members of La Boule New Yorkaise, NYC’s championship-winning club.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 6:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Take a game break with an eclectic selection of favorite tabletop games for free. From scrabble and mancala to dominoes and more.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: 40th Street Plaza (in Bryant Park)

Test your ping pong skills at one of two state-of-the-art tables. Paddles and balls are provided free of charge. Sign up with an attendant in the park to reserve a time slot.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Ping Pong Court (in Bryant Park)

Reading, writing, and literary happenings related to the written word – under the London Plane trees – in the open-air Reading Room.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Bonjour! Hola! Konnichiwa! Ciao! Learn a new language or brush up on your skills in these standalone classes. Attend at any time – lessons are not cumulative.

Start time: 11:45 am

End time: 12:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Upper Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Walk NYC is a FREE program that encourages New Yorkers of all ages to get fit while enjoying the outdoors. With funding provided by Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, Parks will staff locations throughout the city with trained walking instructors to lead one-hour walks.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Carousel for All Children (in Willowbrook Park)

Test your coordination and dexterity with free juggling lessons. All skill levels are welcome and equipment is provided.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park

Clap your hands, stamp your feet, and say yeah to weekday performances of ragtime, jazz, boogie-woogie, and stride piano in Bryant Park. Produced in partnership with the Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians and Sam Ash Music Stores.

Start time: 12:30 pm

End time: 2:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Upper Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Tour Riverside Park South's open air gallery and see the 3rd year presentations of the Art Students League Model to Monument public art project. Seven sculptures by accomplished artists throughout all have information plaques with call in numbers to learn more. Join us for an opening reception and tour with the artists on June 13th at 2pm and tour on September 14th at 11am.

June 2013 – May 2014 viewable during park hours.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Riverside Park South

The nation’s premier outdoor film festival brings classic films to the big screen for the 21st consecutive year.

Lawn opens at 5:00pm. Movie begins at sunset.

Start time: 5:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park Lawn (in Bryant Park)

Join us for ballroom dance lessons. Finale will feature The Nick Russo Latin Jazz Quintet.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time: 7:30 pm

Contact phone: (718) 235-4100

Location: Wallenberg Square (in Forest Park)

The Grow More Vegetables Certificate Series is an edible gardening course designed to equip community gardeners, teachers, and city residents with the best organic techniques for growing vegetables safely and effectively, particularly in an urban setting. The program consists of six classes, both in the classroom and with hands-on gardening instruction in the field. The Queens Botanical Garden and Just Food in Manhattan will each host a Certificate series in their respective boroughs. Be advised that there is an application process for this Certificate series; preference will be given to community, school, and resident gardeners of the specific borough. For more information, e-mail greg@justfood.org for the Manhattan series.

Thursdays, April 4th - May 9th 6pm - 8pm
Mondays, May 6 - June 17th 6pm - 8pm

*Manhattan series will be held on six Mondays

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time: 8:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Just Food Office

Ready…Set…Action...Reel insight into the movie of the week with resident film-buff Scott Adlerberg and guest experts in the crafts of screen-writing and movie-making.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 8:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Tai Chi and Eternal Spring are instructed by members of the Tai Chi Chuan Center for all ages and experience levels.

Start time: 7:30 am

End time: 8:30 am

Contact phone: 212-768-4242

Location: Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Come to Fort Tryon Park and try something new. Join us on Saturdays, Tuesday and Thursday mornings for one hour of walking, stretching, and strengthening exercises.

All of our fitness programs are free, led by trained professionals, and suitable for all levels. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. Rain and weather / air advisory cancels. Fitness programs are cancelled if the weather is lower than 20 degrees.

For a breath of fresh air, take your workouts outdoors. After years of being a gym rat, I've seen the light, so to speak. Parks are becoming a logical alternative environment for those who want to add variety to their work outs, or who just don't like the gym. And, it's an affordable way to increase physical activity opportunities, because there's nothing special to build.

Exercise with a view, in natural sunlight, with green scenery all around bestows health benefits that can’t be found indoors. Scientific studies have shown that the pleasure of being outdoors for example gives your brain, psyche, and immune system an extra boost.

Start time: 7:30 am

End time: 8:30 am

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

Location: Heather Garden (in Fort Tryon Park)

Adults can join us on a free fitness walking program every Tuesday and Thursday morning. This program is terrific for adults of all ages.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 352-4793 ext. 301

Location: Joe Michaels Mile: Western Entrance (in Crocheron Park)

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 10:00 am

Contact phone:

Location: Bowne Park

Erik Benson’s paintings depict the landscape of everyday metropolitan life, created with thousands of shapes hand-cut from dried sheets of acrylic paint. Benson uses this painstaking compositional technique to capture the complexity of urban development, with its interplay of construction and creative destruction, density and emptiness. Familiar cityscapes emerge as more complex than they initially appear.

Originally I was interested in creating a painting vocabulary that depicted the plasticity and temporality of unexamined things such as playgrounds and construction sites,” says Benson. “These interests have been growing into ideas and concerns that deal with the urban landscape, such as how cities grow and shrink, and what these issues mean to the inhabitants.”

In these vivid new paintings, Benson considers the role and impact of playgrounds, trees and parks within evolving communities, often setting the saturated colors and bold shapes of play equipment and dynamic tree branch patterns against the muted backdrops of the surrounding buildings. Inspired by his neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn, he creates works that are not precise representations, but rather archetypes, at once foreboding and optimistic.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 5:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 360-8163

Location: Arsenal (in Central Park)

Grab a pole and relax on the Harlem Meer while you wait for a bite from one of the many species of fish that live in its diverse aquatic ecosystem! Poles available to borrow; must release fish after catching them. Free for families and individuals; groups larger than 5 must reserve at least 2 weeks in advance.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 860-1370

Location: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (in Central Park)

Learn to play pétanque, the popular European game anchored in precision, patience, and camaraderie from members of La Boule New Yorkaise, NYC’s championship-winning club.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 6:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Take a game break with an eclectic selection of favorite tabletop games for free. From scrabble and mancala to dominoes and more.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: 40th Street Plaza (in Bryant Park)

Test your ping pong skills at one of two state-of-the-art tables. Paddles and balls are provided free of charge. Sign up with an attendant in the park to reserve a time slot.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Ping Pong Court (in Bryant Park)

Reading, writing, and literary happenings related to the written word – under the London Plane trees – in the open-air Reading Room.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Get an up-close visit with exotic birds from Arcadia Bird Sanctuary and Educational Center.

Start time: 11:30 am

End time: 2:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Le Carrousel (in Bryant Park)

Test your coordination and dexterity with free juggling lessons. All skill levels are welcome and equipment is provided.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park

Clap your hands, stamp your feet, and say yeah to weekday performances of ragtime, jazz, boogie-woogie, and stride piano in Bryant Park. Produced in partnership with the Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians and Sam Ash Music Stores.

Start time: 12:30 pm

End time: 2:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Upper Terrace (in Bryant Park)

BookClub discussion led by Domenica Ruta on The Turn of the Screw by Henry James.

Produced in partnership with Oxford Unifersity Press.

Start time: 12:30 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Beginner classes presented by Knitty City. Yarn and needles are provided. Call to pre-register or take a chance and drop by.

Start time: 1:30 pm

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 787-5896

Location: Upper Terrace (in Bryant Park)

All participants will learn how to purchase yarn, needles & hooks, read directions and make a 4"x4" square to measure tension to be able to finish a pot holder or scarf. Knitters will learn how to cast on and how to knit or purl. Crocheters will learn to chain, single crochet, and double crochet.

Supplies:

Participants should bring a 7oz skein of light colored worsted weight yarn. No multi-colored, nor dark colored yarns. Knitters should purchase #8 needles, crocheters should purchase an "H" hook.

Start time: 1:30 pm

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 365-5516

Location: Poe Park Visitor Center (in Poe Park)

Tour Riverside Park South's open air gallery and see the 3rd year presentations of the Art Students League Model to Monument public art project. Seven sculptures by accomplished artists throughout all have information plaques with call in numbers to learn more. Join us for an opening reception and tour with the artists on June 13th at 2pm and tour on September 14th at 11am.

June 2013 – May 2014 viewable during park hours.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Riverside Park South

Test your coordination and dexterity with free juggling lessons. All skill levels are welcome and equipment is provided.

Start time: 5:30 pm

End time: 7:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park

You don’t have to leave New York City to see the stars.

Gaze at the stars, planets, and Moon through the high-powered telescopes of the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York, and chat with the experts about the sights you see. Stargazing at the High Line takes place every Tuesday, beginning at dusk, between Tuesday, April 2 and Tuesday, October 29.

Start time: 6:30 pm

End time: 9:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: 14th Street Passage (in The High Line)

Get fit this summer with innovative exercises designed by top trainers to utilize the Park’s best natural features: rocks, trails, stairs, hills, and gorgeous open lawns. A variety of classes will help you to maximize your strength and agility, as well as increase flexibility and muscle tone. All fitness levels welcome. Space is limited to 20 participants per class on a first come, first served basis. Ages 18+.

Start time: 6:30 pm

End time: 7:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 348-4867

Location: North Meadow Recreation Center (in Central Park)

This total body workout is a great way to develop superior core muscle power and tone, all with a beautiful view of the Hudson. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring your own mat.

Start time: 6:30 pm

End time: 7:30 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: The Plaza at 66th Street (in Riverside Park South)

Hear the story behind New York City’s park in the sky. Tuesday Tours are free hour-long walking tours led by High Line Docents, knowledgeable volunteer guides who offer you an insider’s perspective on the park’s history, design, and landscape.

Tuesday Tours take place weekly between Tuesday, May 7 and Tuesday, September 24.

Space is limited. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early to guarantee a spot.

Tuesday Tours are subject to cancellation due to weather. Check back or follow @highlinenyc on Twitter for updates every Tuesday by noon.

Start time: 6:30 pm

End time: 7:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: 14th Street Passage (in The High Line)

New York-born rapper Dana Dane first displayed his talents as a member of a rap group, Kangol Crew, which he formed with classmate Slick Rick. Launching his solo career after graduating, his debut single “Nightmare,” offered hints of his talents. Known for his humorous rhymes and his eclectic fashion sense, Dane broke through commercially with his first full-length album, Dana Dane with Fame. The success of the album, established him as a powerful rapper and one of early Hip-Hop’s biggest personalities.

Hip-Hop legend and founding member of the seminal group Brand Nubian, Grand Puba has been a crucial participant in the Hip-Hop movement since its early days. Originally a member of the group Masters of Ceremony, he became the lead emcee of Brand Nubian in 1989. Although their upbeat music and positive lyrics tied them strongly to the Native Tongues movement (De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest etc.) Brand Nubian's politics and religion were always at the forefront of their music, paving the way for groups like Dead Prez, RZA & GZA (of Wu-Tang), Black Star, Brother Ali & countless others.

Chubb Rock, often compared to a Hip-Hop Barry White, dropped out of pre-med at Brown University to pursue his musical career. Regarded as one of the East Coast’s most dexterous rappers, he first appeared on the national Rap scene with his self-titled debut, Chubb Rock. His 1991 release, The One, reached #13 on Billboard’s Top Hip-Hop/R&B chart that year. Three singles from that release made it to #1 on Billboard’s Top Rap Single chart list that same year including, the classic song, “Treat Em Right,” “Just the Two of Us” and “Lost in the Storm.”

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 9:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Betsy Head Memorial Playground (in Betsy Head Park)

The Airborne Toxic Event has gained a lot of attention for their lyrical arrangements, as well as their unique sound that can be described as a blend of Indie Rock music infused with a twist of classic orchestral arrangements. The five part band that formed in 2006 consists of Mikel Jollett, Steven Chen, Noah Harmon, Daren Taylor, and Anna Bulbrook, all of whose individual talents come together to create an impressive energy in their music and on stage. Their self-titled debut album topped Billboard’s “Heatseeker Chart” for an astounding 8 weeks, and the Los Angeles Times assures that it is easy to get “swept up in the boundless ambition” of the band’s second album All at Once. Their third album, Such Hot Blood, is set to release in 2013.

The Calder Quartet, called “superb” by The New York Times, defies boundaries through performing a broad range of repertoire at an exceptional level, always striving to channel the true intention of the work’s creator. Already the choice of many leading composers to perform their works, the group’s distinctive approach is exemplified by a musical curiosity brought to everything they perform, whether it’s classical or contemporary repertoire. Known for discovering, commissioning, recording and mentoring of some of today’s best emerging composers, the group continues to collaborate with artists across musical genres, spanning the ranges of the classical and contemporary music world.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 10:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Rumsey Playfield (in Central Park)

Sunrise Tai Chi Classes with Robert Martinez, certified Tai Chi Instructor. All programs are free, led by trained professionals, and suitable for all levels. Wear comfy clothing and bring water. Rain and weather/air advisory cancels.

Start time: 6:30 am

End time: 7:30 am

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

Location: Linden Terrace (in Fort Tryon Park)

Practice yoga wth a variety of certified local yoga instructors, while basking in the evening sun. Arrive early, and bring a towel or yoga mat.

Note: Abby’s Lawn is slightly sloped and there are some uneven spots. Rain or wet ground cancels.

Start time: 6:45 am

End time: 8:00 am

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

Location: Abby's Lawn (in Fort Tryon Park)

Erik Benson’s paintings depict the landscape of everyday metropolitan life, created with thousands of shapes hand-cut from dried sheets of acrylic paint. Benson uses this painstaking compositional technique to capture the complexity of urban development, with its interplay of construction and creative destruction, density and emptiness. Familiar cityscapes emerge as more complex than they initially appear.

Originally I was interested in creating a painting vocabulary that depicted the plasticity and temporality of unexamined things such as playgrounds and construction sites,” says Benson. “These interests have been growing into ideas and concerns that deal with the urban landscape, such as how cities grow and shrink, and what these issues mean to the inhabitants.”

In these vivid new paintings, Benson considers the role and impact of playgrounds, trees and parks within evolving communities, often setting the saturated colors and bold shapes of play equipment and dynamic tree branch patterns against the muted backdrops of the surrounding buildings. Inspired by his neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn, he creates works that are not precise representations, but rather archetypes, at once foreboding and optimistic.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 5:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 360-8163

Location: Arsenal (in Central Park)

Volunteer with Natural Areas Volunteers (NAV) at Little Bay Park to care for newly planted trees. This work will help maintain the livelihood of the restored forest. Volunteers will be trained in tree care, invasive weed identification and removal techniques. Come dressed in sturdy boots or shoes, long pants and clothing that can get dirty. Space is limited. Registration is required for this event at the link below.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 360-3317

Location: Utopia Pkwy & 14th Rd (in Little Bay Park)

Grab a pole and relax on the Harlem Meer while you wait for a bite from one of the many species of fish that live in its diverse aquatic ecosystem! Poles available to borrow; must release fish after catching them. Free for families and individuals; groups larger than 5 must reserve at least 2 weeks in advance.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 860-1370

Location: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (in Central Park)

Learn to play pétanque, the popular European game anchored in precision, patience, and camaraderie from members of La Boule New Yorkaise, NYC’s championship-winning club.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 6:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Take a game break with an eclectic selection of favorite tabletop games for free. From scrabble and mancala to dominoes and more.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: 40th Street Plaza (in Bryant Park)

Test your ping pong skills at one of two state-of-the-art tables. Paddles and balls are provided free of charge. Sign up with an attendant in the park to reserve a time slot.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Ping Pong Court (in Bryant Park)

Reading, writing, and literary happenings related to the written word – under the London Plane trees – in the open-air Reading Room.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Reading Room (in Bryant Park)

Bonjour! Hola! Konnichiwa! Ciao! Learn a new language or brush up on your skills in these standalone classes. Attend at any time – lessons are not cumulative.

Start time: 11:45 am

End time: 12:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Upper Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Test your coordination and dexterity with free juggling lessons. All skill levels are welcome and equipment is provided.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park

Clap your hands, stamp your feet, and say yeah to weekday performances of ragtime, jazz, boogie-woogie, and stride piano in Bryant Park. Produced in partnership with the Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians and Sam Ash Music Stores.

Start time: 12:30 pm

End time: 2:30 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Upper Terrace (in Bryant Park)

Tour Riverside Park South's open air gallery and see the 3rd year presentations of the Art Students League Model to Monument public art project. Seven sculptures by accomplished artists throughout all have information plaques with call in numbers to learn more. Join us for an opening reception and tour with the artists on June 13th at 2pm and tour on September 14th at 11am.

June 2013 – May 2014 viewable during park hours.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: Riverside Park South