Family-Friendly Summer Concerts
What better way to spend your summer than by going out to enjoy a fun and entertaining concert! With so many different kinds of performances, your family’s calendar will be filled with a bunch of musical adventures to choose from!
There are concerts out there for everyone, whether you want to relax in the park listening to some smooth jazz, or you want to burn off some energy and dance along to some upbeat music.
So grab your picnic blankets, pack a few snacks, and join in on the fun at any of these family friendly summer concerts in New York City!
Psst… Check out our Summer Reading List for Kids of All Ages!
Little Island Creative Break Series
When: through Sept. 3
Time: Varies
Location: Pier 55 at The Glade and The Playground
Head to Little Island for a summer of free performances and events through Sept. 3. Listen to performances from Grammy-winning artists, Tony-winners, classical musicians and more. No tickets or reservations are required for these events, making it the perfect choice for a spontaneous night out.
Picnic Performances in Bryant Park
When: through Sept. 14
Time: 7 pm
Location: Bryant Park
Come listen to some of your favorite songs played by a wide variety of artists put together by Carnegie Hall! Whether you’re in the mood to listen to smooth jazz or some R&B, each Friday you and your family can sit on the lawn of Bryant park to listen to sounds and songs from all around the world!
Sunset on the Hudson
When: through August 25
Time: Varies
Location: Hudson River Park
This music series has been one of the longest running in Hudson River Park and is continuing to be a fun experience for the entire family. With multiple shows going on throughout the summer, you will be able to listen to some talented local musicians.
These concerts are free so take advantage of the opportunity to make some more memories!
Summer on the Hudson Amplified Sundays
When: Sundays in July
Time: 7 pm
Location: Pier I at 70th St.
Dance to vibrant live music accompanied by spectacular sunsets. Stop by for a different style and genre of music each week!
Summer Concerts at The Wells Fargo Stage
When: Wednesdays through Aug. 9
Time: 6 pm
Location: Hudson Yards Public Square & Gardens
Head over to the Public Square & Gardens on Wednesday nights for free live concerts! Programmed by the Bowery Presents, get ready for a thrilling line-up of artists who will be in NYC this summer! Pack your blanket and snacks and enjoy the show(s)!
When: through October
Time: Varies
Location: Multiple Park Locations
Enjoy the sounds of musical ensembles this summer at SummerStage.
Get ready to travel the world and transport to countries like Canada, Brazil, and France, while seated in your neighborhood park. SummerStage has compiled some of the most inspiring performing artists (both local and international) to create an engaging lineup all summer.
With over 13 locations and many genres, there is sure to be an event for everyone!
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Concert Series
When: through Aug. 24
Time: Varies
Location: Prospect Park
This popular festival has been going for over 40 years and has become a summer tradition for many New York families. Taking place all summer long, performers from all over come to the stage in Prospect Park to share their love for music with you and your family.
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! will open your eyes to new genres of music and give you an excuse to listen to songs you already loved!
Met Opera Summer Recital
When: August 8
Time: 8 pm
Location: Rumsey Playfield, Central Park
In collaboration with the City Parks Foundation, The Metropolitan Opera will be hosting their popular summer recital in Central Park! This show has always been a fan favorite for many New Yorkers who have a love for opera.
The Met Opera, however, is hoping that this event will inspire a new generation of opera lovers! Even though this is a free event, you must request tickets in order to attend.
International Puppet Fringe Festival NYC
When: Aug. 9 to 13
Time: Various
Location: Teatro SEA
Come explore the world of puppets at the International Puppet Fringe Festival! Families will be able to watch puppet shows, short films and artist talks with international puppet theater companies. This year, the event will take place from Aug. 9 to 13.
Charlie Parker Jazz Festival NYC
When: Aug. 25 to 27
Time: Varies
Locations: Varies
The Charlie Parker Jazz Festival is back this year! This three-day event celebrates the late saxophonist in live performances held right around where Parker once lived.
Performances will take place in areas including Harlem’s historic Marcus Garvey park and Tompkin’s Square in the East Village. Indulge in an event filled with soothing jazz and powerful performers.
