Labor Day weekend is fast approaching, and for families across the country that means one last chance to bid summer farewell. In store for NYC families are several fests and fairs including the Unicycle Festival and the ever-popular West Side County Fair in Riverside Park. Flutter over to the American Museum of Natural History and check out its Butterfly Conservatory. Take in some tugboat racing or a marvelous moon celebration. Enjoy your holiday weekend!
For even more ways to enjoy Labor Day in the city, click here!
Thursday, September 3-Sunday, September 6
Unicycle Festival NYC 2015
Various locations throughout NYC
Various times
(Uni)cyclists of all ages and abilities are welcome at Unicycle Festival NYC 2015! This annual event takes place over several days beginning in Battery Park on Thursday and ending on Governors Island on Sunday. Fest activities on Governors Island include one-wheel relay races, kite flying, sumo wrestling, and games of unicycle basketball and hockey. This year, for the first time, the festival will host a costume contest during which cyclists can vie for top prizes. Festival-goers can also learn how to ride a unicycle during afternoon riding workshops. Admission is free.
Beginning Saturday, September 5
The Butterfly Conservatory
American Museum of Natural History
10am-5:45pm
The Butterfly Conservatory is back at the American Museum of Natural History! More than 500 of these winged creatures can be found fluttering through the conservatory during this seasonal exhibition. Butterfly lovers of all ages will learn about the caterpillar transformation process and other fascinating butterfly facts. Species include swallowtails, blue morphos, and owls. Free with museum admission.
Saturday, September 5
Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
Forsyth Street (between East Broadway & Division Street)
4pm-10pm
Chinatown will host the second annual Mid-Autumn Moon Festival this Saturday. All ages can enjoy street dance performances, giveaways, arts and crafts, traditional Chinese food, and more. This year’s live entertainment includes a Zumba session and a performance by the Salome James Jazz Trio. Admission is free.
Sunday, September 6
23rd Annual Great North River Tugboat Race & Competition
Pier 84
10am-2pm
Watch as tugboats race on the Hudson during the 23rd Annual Great North River Tugboat Race & Competition. Boats will also vie for awards in “nose to nose pushing” and “line toss” competitions. Kids will get a kick out of watching the spinach eating contest. To view all the racing action from the water, hop aboard the Spectator Boat. Boat departs at 9:30am. Spectator boat tickets are $25 for adults and $12 for kids.
West Side County Fair
Riverside Park
1pm-6pm
What better way to celebrate Labor Day weekend than with a county fair. The West Side County Fair in Riverside Park will include attractions like sideshow performers, carnival rides and games, reptile shows, aerialists, and live music. Plus, be sure to end your day at the fair with cotton candy! Admission is free.
