NYC Parks Weekend Fun Guide

August 24-25, 2019 

Here are some highlights of free and low-cost things to do in NYC parks this weekend. For more upcoming events, please visit our Events Calendar.

1. Plan a beach day

Only three weekends left to go to the beach this summer! NYC has 9 free public beaches for you to enjoy. Remember to swim only where lifeguards are present and never leave kids unattended. Find a beach (Photo: Cedar Grove Beach on Staten Island)

2. Head to the Blues BBQ Fest 

Summertime is all about barbecues and good music. Enjoy yummy BBQ from local NYC favorites and an exciting lineup of artists singing and playing the blues at Hudson River Park's Pier 97 this Saturday! Festival info

3. Chill at a Cool Pool

This summer, six more outdoor pools debuted their Cool Pools NYC look with vibrant summer-themed colors, new lounge furniture with umbrellas, and games. Cool down at a Cool Pool near you! Remember to bring your swimwear and a sturdy lock. Find a FREE Cool Pool near you (Photo: Tottenville Pool on Staten Island)

4. Commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Brooklyn

It's Battle Week in Brooklyn! We're commemorating the largest battle of the Revolutionary War. Tour battle sites, honor our heroes, watch re-enactments, march in the parade to Battle Hill, and more! Learn more about Battle Week

5. Join a history tour of Orchard Beach

Explore the "Riviera of New York" with the Urban Park Rangers and learn about how this beach transformed Pelham Bay Park's waterfront in 1936! More info

6. Watch free movies in our parks

Showing this weekend at Parks: Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, and more! View our movie schedule

7. Bring the kids to SummerFest in the Bronx

Come to Hunts Point Recreation Center this Saturday to play sports, join fun sports clinics and demonstrations, and enjoy performances, fitness, fun and games, prizes, giveaways, and much more. Event info

7. Check out the Emerging Music Fest

Love to be the first among your crew to discover the next must-listen-to artist? Head to Bryant Park this Friday and Saturday night to hear the best of NYC's up-and-coming artists. More info

7. Join a tour of the High Bridge and nearby historic sites

This mighty bridge which spans the Harlem River is NYC's oldest standing bridge and part of our city's first water supply system. Learn more on a tour with the Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct this Sunday! More info