August in New York City means long days, warm nights, and a calendar packed with can’t-miss events. From Shakespeare under the stars to baseball at the beach, here are five fun ways to make the most of the month:
1. Watch a Star-Studded Ensemble at Shakespeare in the Park
A New York City tradition continues this summer with an A-list cast on a revitalized Central Park stage. Beginning Aug. 7, Shakespeare in the Park returns with Twelfth Night, starring Peter Dinklage, Lupita Nyong’o, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Sandra Oh, and more.
It’s a homecoming for the series, which has brought free performances of the Bard’s plays to the city for more than 60 years. After a season away, this year’s production returns to the Delacorte Theater, which officially re-opened in July after major renovations.
You’ll need a little moxie to snag free tickets, so plan ahead. You can find more details about getting free Shakespeare in the Park tickets here.
Aug. 7 – Sept. 14, Central Park, Manhattan
2. Catch a Cyclones Game in Coney Island
Nothing says summer in the city like a Brooklyn Cyclones game in Coney Island. The minor league team is known for their offbeat theme nights, and this year, they’re adding a touch of magic with Harry Potter Night. Quidditch may be cancelled but baseball is still on, so grab your broomstick and head down to Maimonides Park Aug. 30.
Or, attend any Friday-evening home game to catch fireworks on the Coney Island Boardwalk after the game.
Check out the full Brooklyn Cyclones schedule for tickets.
Through Sept. 12, Coney Island, Brooklyn
3. Eat Your Heart Out at JAPAN Fes
This month, the world’s largest Japanese food festival is making a mouthwatering return to New York City. Head to one of six upcoming JAPAN Fes events to sip on a bubble tea and nibble on Japanese street-food favorites like yakitori, gyoza, and takoyaki from dozens of local vendors. Between bites, you can soak up the sights and sounds of Japanese art, music, and culture all around you.
Six events, Aug. 3 – Sept. 6, Manhattan and Queens
4. Hunt for Treasure at the Fashion, Art & Design Market
FAD Market is back this August with two pop-up events celebrating fashion, art, and design in New York City. Since launching in 2016, the market has brought together independent artists and designers in venues across the city, from the High Line, to Brooklyn Brewery, to Industry City. Check out one of this year’s markets to score a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry or your new favorite piece of art.
August 16 and 17, Governors Island
August 9 and 10, Dumbo, Brooklyn
5. Enjoy Hip-Hop and BBQ in the Bronx
Celebrate hip-hop in the borough where it all began with two legends who helped shape the sound of the Bronx. Doug E. Fresh will bring his iconic beatboxing skills, while Funk Flex keeps the vibes alive with nonstop hits at this free SummerStage event from the City Parks Foundation. It’s all going down at the Hip-Hop Appreciation Park Jam & Barbecue in Crotona Park.
Aug. 1, 6:00 – 9:00 pm, Crotona Park, the Bronx
