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.

Ensemble LPR is an elite assemblage of the finest New York-based concert musicians, personifying Le Poisson Rouge’s commitment to aesthetic diversity and artistic excellence. Members of the ensemble are graduates from the world’s most prestigious conservatory and university programs, and have performed at the Marlboro and Aspen Festivals and as a soloist with The New York Philharmonic and The New Jersey Symphony, to name a few accolades. There is no instrumentation too large or too small for the ensemble whose unyielding standard and rigorous devotion is to the music of the world’s finest living composers as much as it is to the common practice period of classical music and collaborations with artists of non-classical backgrounds.

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

Perfectly timed evening performances featuring talented New York area jazz musicians and singer-songwriters.

Performance Schedule:

June 5: Warren Chiasson Trio Jazz
June 12: Rebecca Haviland and Whiskey Heart Singer-songwriter
June 19: Joonsam Lee Quartet Jazz
June 26: Miss Tess & The Talkbacks Singer-songwriter

July 3 Broken Reed Saxophone Quartet Jazz
July 10: Eytan and The Embassy Singer-songwriter
July 17: Chuck Braman Trio Jazz
July 24: Tall Tall Trees Singer-songwriter
July 31: Michael Arenella and his Dreamland Orchestra Jazz

August 7: Zach Berkman Singer-songwriter
August 14: Dan Levinson’s Swing Wing Jazz
August 21: Woody Pines Singer-songwriter
August 28: John Farnsworth Quintet Jazz

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Fountain Terrace (in Bryant Park)

End your day with relaxing Hatha yoga in a beautiful sunset setting. Suitable for all fitness levels. 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)

Start time: 6:45 pm

End time: 8:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

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

Suzanne Vega kicks off the 2013 Mad. Sq. Music: Oval Lawn Series. Vega is an American singer-songwriter of rare poetic genius and emerged as a leading figure of the folk-music revival of the early 1980s. Bearing the stamp of a masterful storyteller who “observed the world with a clinically poetic eye,” Suzanne’s songs have always tended to focus on city life, ordinary people and real world subjects. Notably succinct and understated, often cerebral but also streetwise, her lyrics invite multiple interpretations. Vega’s musical influences and favorites include Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, Lou Reed, Laura Nyro and The Smiths.

Her profound insight into the basics of human existence has earned her followers of all ages and walks of life. Vega was a staple at Lilith Fair since she performed as the very first artist and continued to frequent the festival throughout her career. Suzanne’s neo-folk style has speared the female, acoustic, folk-pop singer-songwriter movement that would include the likes of Tracy Chapman, Shawn Colvin, and the Indigo Girls. Vega has continued to top the Billboard charts and won a Grammy Award for best album package including album cover, graphic arts and photography in 1990 for Days of Open Hand. Vega is “widely regarded as one of the most brilliant songwriters of her generation,” (Biography Magazine).

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 8:30 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Oval Lawn (in Madison Square Park)

Grab your friends and bring your dancing shoes – evenings of live Latin music and dancing are returning to the High Line this summer! Friends of the High Line is pleased to partner with HAI and Hudson Guild to host some of New York City’s best Latin bands at the High Line, transforming the park into an open-air dance floor at sunset.

Part of High Line Live! – a performance series at the High Line – ¡Arriba! nights in June, July, and August feature different live acts bringing their own energy, musical style, and flavor to our community dance parties.

Wednesday, June 19
Orlando Marin, the Last Mambo King, and his dynamic band from the Bronx kick off ¡Arriba! with traditional salsa and merengue rhythms that get visitors of all ages shaking to the beat of the timbales drums.

Wednesday, July 24
Liliana Araújo and her lively band Forró da Madame heat up ¡Arriba! with Brazilian forró, a popular dance and musical style marked by accordion, triangle, and zabumba bass drum beats.

Wednesday, August 21
Inspired by the guajiro musical rhythms of Cuba, N D’Lux of New York City offers a funky mix of son montuno, rumba, danzon, and timba styles to close out the ¡Arriba! series.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 9:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: Chelsea Market Passage (in The High Line)

Join us for monthly monitoring sessions where we listen for the calls of local frogs. FrogWatch USA is a nationwide program that monitors and tracks amphibian populations by collecting data with help from volunteers like you. Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the night walk and monitoring. This program is suitable for ages 8 and up. Registration required by phone or email.

• Wed., April 17 at 7:00 p.m.: Nevada Ave parking lot, High Rock Park
• Wed., May 22 at 8:00 p.m.: Greenbelt Nature Center, Buttonbush Swamp (The May 15 session has moved)
• Wed., June 19 at 8:00 p.m.: Greenbelt Nature Center, Buttonbush Swamp

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 8:30 pm

Contact phone: (718) 351-3450

Location: Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley)

For over 25 years, Bishop Hezekiah Walker and the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir have spread the Gospel of Jesus to a variety of audiences, changing the lives of many around the world. They have performed and recorded with several major secular artists, including Celine Dion, Ray Charles, Brian McKnight, Justin Timberlake, Enrique Iglesias, Brandy and Baby Face to name a few. Walker and the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir have received numerous GRAMMY nominations for their fifteen critically acclaimed albums, including their wins for Live in Atlanta at Morehouse College and for Love is Live. With their nomination for the NAACP Image Award for Best Gospel Artist, Walker and the Love Fellowship Crusade Choir have further cemented themselves as a power player in the Gospel music world.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 9:00 pm

Contact phone:

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

Join us for monthly monitoring sessions where we listen for the calls of local frogs. FrogWatch USA is a nationwide program that monitors and tracks amphibian populations by collecting data with help from volunteers like you. Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the night walk and monitoring. This program is suitable for ages 8 and up. Registration required by phone or email.

Start time: 8:00 pm

End time: 9:30 pm

Contact phone: (718) 351-3450

Location: Greenbelt Nature Center (in Blood Root Valley)

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)

Craniosacral therapy and relaxation is a deeply relaxing technique, somewhat like yoga, that makes you feel as though you are floating on water.

You may experience yourself drifting in and out of sleep during the gentle and quiet sessions. You will gain a deeper sense of well-being and relaxation, with a better understanding of your body and how it feels. If you suffer migraines, back or neck pain, the instructor will advice you on the specific technique to alleviate the area of concern.

Mats and materials are provided. Come in loose and comfortable pants and clothing. Most people remove their shoes.

Get ready to have an amazing experience. This is a very popular class.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 11:00 am

Contact phone: (718) 365-5516

Location: Poe Park Visitor Center (in Poe 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)

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)

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: 1:00 pm

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: Chelsea Market Passage (in The High Line)

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

So you think you are a Naturalist? Find out at the Audubon Center by making your own nature journal, learning how to use binoculars and field guides.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park)

Curious as to how “Snappy” the turtle got her name? Want to watch the snake gobble up a mouse? Join one of our trained staff in learning more about the animals in the Audubon Center’s collection. Learn what it takes to care for these amazing creatures and even assist in an actual feeding. There will also be opportunities to get up close and personal with our box turtle.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 2:30 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park)

Come have fun in nature. A Naturalist will lead children and families to areas near the Audubon Center, where you can be active and learn about the nature that is all around us.

Start time: 3:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park)

The ornamental and native plantings around Sherman Creek and Swindler Cove need constant care; from watering to weeding, planting to dead-heading there is always work to be done in these gardens. Help maintain the Sherman Creek Gardens and join our Garden Crew on Thursday evenings this spring through fall.

Start time: 4:00 pm

End time: 6:30 pm

Contact phone: (917) 291-6436

Location: Swindler Cove Park

Thirteen evenings featuring over a hundred different accordionists throughout the summer playing music from all over the world. Six accordionists perform under the trees in the park every Thursday evening.

Special Performaces:

June 20, July 18, and August 15: Twenty accordionists perform all over the park from 5pm - 7pm. Accordion Jam and Dance Party featuring a different band each evening from 7pm – 9pm.

Start time: 5:00 pm

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park

When Sister Rain becomes jealous of Brother Sun and stops watering the Earth, Mother Nature and the audience must join forces to save the day.

Presented by Catskill Puppet Theatre. Sponsored by Council Member Eric Ulrich

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 235-4100

Location: Sobelsohn Park (in Forest Park)

Jon B is an accomplished musician, noted songwriter and producer who combined 1970s Soul with Hip-Hop influences in his debut album, Bonafide. A soulful album that highlighted his dulcet tenor, it earned him both critical and commercial success, especially with the GRAMMY nominated song “Someone to Love” featuring Babyface. Jon B’s success continued with his platinum album Cool Relax, fueled by the success of “They Don’t Know,” which topped the R&B charts. In the album Stronger Everyday, Jon experimented with sounds and textures to accompany his vocals that gave his music a deeper, mature vibe. Hopeless Romantic, showcased his songwriting skills, featuring the single “Ooh So Sexy” with Paul Wall. In 2011, Jon B released Comfortable Swagg, which celebrates his journey as a family man.

Hi-Five is an R&B quintet based in from Texas, which had a #1 hit on Billboard's Hot 100 in the early 1990s with "I Like the Way (The Kissing Game)." Considered one of the best examples of the New Jack Swing sound, they band has regrouped with new members.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 9:00 pm

Contact phone:

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

Get fresh produce, nuts, coffee and nut butters from the Farmer's Market.

Start time: 8:30 am

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 886-3800

Location: Queen's Botanical Garden Farmer's Market

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)

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)

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)

Join us for an introductory class to the Pilates method. These conditioning exercises can create length in the body, and improve flexibility and strength. Please bring your own mat. The class is open to adults and seniors and no registration is required.

Shaping Up has never been this easy. Shape Up NYC offers free fitness classes every week at dozens of locations across the five boroughs. Shape Up NYC classes are taught by expert fitness instructors who know how to make fitness fun. Class offerings are varied and include aerobics, yoga, pilates and zumba.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect 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 (unless otherwise noted).

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: P.S. 26 (in Schmul 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)

Now in its seventh year, Make Music New York, “the largest music event ever to grace Gotham” (Metro New York), is a unique festival of free concerts in public spaces throughout the five boroughs of New York City, all on June 21st, the first day of summer. MMNY takes place simultaneously with similar festivities in more than 514 cities around the world — a global celebration of music making. Westerleigh Park will have 8 Groups performing.

Performance Schedule:

1:00 pm to 2:00 pm Daryle Shawn

4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Daniel Hartig

6:00 pm to 7:00 pm Geramy Grant

7:00 pm to 7:20 pm Gabby Pisapia

7:20 pm to 7:40 pm Lauren Buttermark

7:40 pm to 8:00 pm Samantha Frank

8:00 pm to 9:00 pm Julia Gargano & Kacey Velazquez

9:00 pm to 10:00 pm Frank Glaz & Friends

Start time: 1:00 pm

End time: 10:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Westerleigh 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

So you think you are a Naturalist? Find out at the Audubon Center by making your own nature journal, learning how to use binoculars and field guides.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park)

Curious as to how “Snappy” the turtle got her name? Want to watch the snake gobble up a mouse? Join one of our trained staff in learning more about the animals in the Audubon Center’s collection. Learn what it takes to care for these amazing creatures and even assist in an actual feeding. There will also be opportunities to get up close and personal with our box turtle.

Start time: 2:00 pm

End time: 2:30 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park)

Come have fun in nature. A Naturalist will lead children and families to areas near the Audubon Center, where you can be active and learn about the nature that is all around us.

Start time: 3:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Audubon Center at the Boathouse (in Prospect Park)

Come see local dance companies demonstrate their moves and maybe learn a move or two.

Millennium Dance Company:

Millennium Dance Company at the Perry School is a community based Harlem dance center upholding the highest standards of conservatory training for future generations of professional artists while nourishing the creative spirit and personal development for every adult and child who walks through our doors. Millennium will be performing HipHop, Modern, Jazz, Liturgical and African. We will be utilizing the audience in showing them basic steps in each genre of dance and how to put a combination together

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time: 7:00 pm

Contact phone: 311

Location: West Harlem Piers Park

Celebrate 67 years of the world-renowned company’s pioneering modern dance with a performance set to live music.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (212) 768-4242

Location: Bryant Park Lawn (in Bryant Park)

Hailing from France and formed in 1988, IAM began its journey to fame in the city of Marseille. This French Hip-Hop group consisting of 5 members incorporates themes that include the sounds of Ancient Egypt, Africa, China, Japan, India and American music. IAM's big break came after the release of the 1997 album, L'école du micro d'argent, which eventually sold 1.5 million copies worldwide. Through IAM’s European performances, the band helped spread the popularity of French Hip-Hop infused with African rhythms mixing both rage and intelligence, and constantly discovering new dimensions for the pleasure of listeners' ears and minds. With an album set to be released in April 2013, IAM has proven that they have no intention of slowing down as they continue to create powerful music for the world to hear.

Legendary Hip-Hop artist Rakim’s iconic album, Paid in Full has garnered praise from outlets such as Rolling Stone, who has deemed it, “the greatest Hip-Hop album of all time.” Few artists have had as great an impact on the development of the genre as Rakim. Recognized as one of the “Masters of the Microphone,” he first exploded onto the scene with the release of the iconic single, “Eric B. is President” which showcased his intricately intellectual lyrics.

Start time: 7:00 pm

End time: 10:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Rumsey Playfield (in Central Park)

Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy Hotel Transylvania. Dracula, who operates a high-end resort away from the human world, goes into overprotective mode when a boy discovers the resort and falls for the count's teen-aged daughter. Rated PG.

Start time: 7:30 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 520-5954

Location: Captain Tilly Park

Good Morning! Come join the Van Cortlandt Track Club for regular morning group runs through and around the Yonkers-Bronx border in small groups each Saturday morning at 8AM!

We break into various groups based on different paces and distances, starting with a loop of the Parade Grounds, then some peel off through the trails for various length and speed runs in smaller groups.

Be sure to meet back up after the run for breakfast!

Visit www.vctc.org for details & local running tips.

Start time: 8:00 am

End time:

Contact phone:

Location: Van Cortlandt Stadium (in Van Cortlandt Park)

Start time: 8:00 am

End time: 9:30 am

Contact phone: (718) 430-1890

Location: Van Cortlandt Nature Center (in Van Cortlandt Park)

Join Helen Kilgallen and her instuctors from Elaine's Dance School in this beginner Hatha Yoga class.

Bring a mat, large towel or blanket.

Start time: 8:00 am

End time: 9:00 am

Contact phone: (718) 318-4000

Location: Beach 108th Street (in Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk)

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: 8:30 am

End time: 9:30 am

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

Location: Heather Garden (in Fort Tryon Park)

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 10:00 am

Contact phone:

Location: Bowne Park

Come out and lend a hand to help us rake, weed and do various gardening chores. Join us for coffee and doughnuts in the am. Bring a rake or use one of ours and have some fun. If you need community sevice hours come to the park to get your hours.

To volunteer in Westerleigh Park call (718) 442-0336.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 12:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 442-0336

Location: Westerleigh Park

Join us for free yoga for the whole family with Robin Rosiello, a certified yoga instructor. All ages are welcome.

Meet on Abby's Lawn in Fort Tryon Park. Please arrive early, and bring a towel or yoga mat. Note that the ground is sloped and there are uneven spots. Rain or wet ground cancels.

Start time: 9:00 am

End time: 9:45 am

Contact phone: (212) 795-1388

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

Volunteer with Natural Areas Volunteers (NAV) at Powell's Cove 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: Powell's Cove Park at 133 Place (in Powell's Cove 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)

Go on a scavenger hunt for High Line Art, then create your own masterpiece inspired by New York City’s park in the sky.

With colorful plant life, interesting cityscape views, and site-specific art works, the High Line offers plenty of inspiration for young creative minds. During this weekly drop-in program during the months of July and August, kids and their caregivers are invited to experiment with painting and drawing techniques, and build one-of-a-kind vehicles, forts, structures, and machines with the Children’s Workyard Kit, a crate of kid-friendly planks, nuts, bolts, and other custom materials by industrial designer Cas Holman.

Check back or follow @highlinenyc on Twitter for updates on Saturdays by 8:00 AM.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 12:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: The Lawn (in The High Line)

Go on a scavenger hunt for High Line Art, then create your own masterpiece inspired by New York City’s park in the sky.

With colorful plant life, interesting cityscape views, and site-specific art works, the High Line offers plenty of inspiration for young creative minds. During this weekly drop-in program during the months of July and August, kids and their caregivers are invited to experiment with painting and drawing techniques, and build one-of-a-kind vehicles, forts, structures, and machines with the Children’s Workyard Kit, a crate of kid-friendly planks, nuts, bolts, and other custom materials by industrial designer Cas Holman.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 12:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 206-9922

Location: The Lawn (in The High Line)

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: 10:00 am

End time: 11:00 am

Contact phone:

Location: City College Quad

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)

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)

Come enjoy Roger Morris Park along with your family. Play colonial games, make a historic craft project, and enjoy the beginning of summer in our colonial garden! The day will also include docent led tours for adults and families. No advanced registration required.

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (212) 923-8008

Location: Morris-Jumel Mansion (in Roger Morris 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)

Fitness Hikes feature less talking and more walking, for those who don’t mind a vigorous two hour hike.

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: High Rock Ranger Station (in High Rock 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)

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: (212) 628-2345

Location: The Harlem Meer, outside of Lasker Pool (in Central 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)

Rockaway rocks with this 7th annual festival including a surf contest and music.

Sponsored by Boarders Surf Shop

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 6:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 318-4000

Location: Beach 90th Street (in Rockaway Beach)

Celebrate the end of school and the beginning of summer at historic King Manor Museum. Make a colorful windcatcher and other summer crafts, enjoy stories, play historic games, and even make your own ice cream at this fun family event.

Start time: 12:00 pm

End time: 4:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 206-0545 x13

Location: King Manor Museum (in Rufus King 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

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 our website below on Wednesday, June 12th.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time:

Contact phone: (718) 846-2731

Location: Alley Pond Park

To mark the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, which called for civil and economic rights for African Americans, SummerStage honors the storied legacy of famed Gospel singer and activist Mahalia Jackson with an evening of music and film. Listen to Joshua Nelson, known as “The Prince of Kosher Gospel”, as he pays tribute to Ms. Jackson with his creative reinterpretations of her original catalogue, followed by the screening of “Mahalia Jackson: The Power and the Glory” which gives an intimate look into the life and rise of the famed singer that changed our history one note at a time.

Joshua Nelson, the self-proclaimed “Prince of Kosher Gospel”, has created a music genre that blends together his religion and his heritage. In a New York Times Article, Nelson said “Kosher gospel isn’t an imitation of traditional gospel music, but the marriage of ethnic African music and Christian music.” In his music, Nelson combines the lyrics and meanings of Judaism with the soulful sounds of American Gospel music. For his audiences, whatever their faith or heritage, kosher Gospel has been a revelation. Now in his early thirties, Nelson has performed around the world, for presidents, congregations, major music festivals—and for Oprah, who named him a “Next Big Thing.” In 2008, Nelson released his latest album, Mi Chamocha.

While developing her music skills as a teenager, Della Reese had the opportunity to tour with Mahalia Jackson. From 1969 to 1970, Reese hosted a television talk show while guest starring on many shows into the 1980s, including Sanford and Son, Crazy Like a Fox and Picket Fences. In 1987, she was nominated for a Best Female Soloist in Gospel Music GRAMMY Award. In the late 1990s, Reese landed a starring role on television's Touched By An Angel, alongside Roma Downey and John Dye, while continuing her music career.

Mahalia Jackson's music cut through whatever lay in its wake and shackled itself to your soul. Those who witnessed her singing spoke of being taken to a sacred place, of the sheer power of her voice, of the rapturous, transcendent nature of the experience. Jackson was considered by many to be the world’s greatest Gospel singer and the creator of a musical standard by which all would be judged. “Mahalia Jackson: The Power and the Glory” follows the course of her extraordinary life, from her humble beginnings as a sickly child singing in the churches of New Orleans, through her years in relative obscurity, to her breakthrough and her role as a civil rights activist and her ascendancy to Carnegie Hall and the great stages of Europe. Director Jeff Scheftel gives intimate insight into Jackson’s life with archival footage and interviews with those who knew her best.

Start time: 6:00 pm

End time: 10:00 pm

Contact phone:

Location: Rumsey Playfield (in Central 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)

Weekend Volunteer Corps are a wonderful opportunity for groups to get their hands dirty with projects throughout the park. Individuals welcome too. All groups must pre-register. Contact Volunteer Corps below.

Start time: 10:00 am

End time: 1:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 287-3400

Location: Picnic House (in Prospect Park)

Join the Gowanus Canal Conservancy for a day of environmental clean-up!

Gowanus Canal Conservancy will host a tree stewardship event and work on tree pruning, removing pavers from tree pits, amending soil with compost and spreading mulch. Please wear closed toed shoes and dress for gardening activities.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED -- Please RSVP to volunteer@gowanuscanalconservancy.org

Start time: 11:00 am

End time: 3:00 pm

Contact phone: (718) 541-4378

Location: Salt Lot