This weekend has some particularly special events, including the annual City of Water Day, Bastille Day on 60th Street, and Manhattanhenge, a stunning view of the sunset in New York. Take a nostalgic ride to Coney Island with the New York Transit Museum or participate in a WeBop family jazz party. Finally, don’t miss the chance to learn origami and special crafts at the Japan’s Star Festival!
Friday, July 11 & Saturday, July 12
Manhattanhenge
Hayden Planetarium
7pm
All Ages
Coined by Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of Hayden Planetarium, “Manhattanhenge” refers to an annual event where the sun sets perfectly on the East- and West-numbered streets. This Friday and Saturday, the spectacular phenomenon can best be seen at 14th, 34th, 57th, and 79th Streets. Join the Hayden Planetarium for a special lecture before the sun sets! $15
Saturday, July 12
Coney Island Nostalgia Train Ride
New York Transit Museum
11am-5pm
All Ages
Head to the beach during this nostalgia-themed train ride to Coney Island! The New York Transit Museum is hosting a wonderful ride on R1/9 cars from the 1930s. The above- and below-ground journey will last 2 hours and end in an afternoon at the beloved beachside amusement park. Adults $50, Children $25
City of Water Day
Governors Island and Other Locations
All Day
All Ages
In celebration of the water that surrounds us and brings us together, the City of Water Day is a day-long, free event that the whole family will enjoy. The festival will be chock full of live music, food, and activities like on-the-water labs, a children’s activities fair, free boat tours, and much more! Free
WeBop Family Jazz Party
Jazz at Lincoln Center
1pm and 3pm
Recommended 8 months-7 years
Mr. Tim and the WeBop family band are honoring Louis Armstrong’s iconic Hot Five recordings during this family jazz party. Little music lovers will learn all about this legendary jazz and historical figure while singing, stomping, and strutting along. $20, non-walking babies are free
Sunday, July 13
Bastille Day
60th Street between Lexington and 5th Avenue
12pm-5pm
All Ages
Grab les enfants and head to Bastille Day on 60th Street this Sunday! This charming event commemorates France’s own Independence Day with a taste of culture, including live music and French cuisine. Hosted by the French Institute Alliance Française, the annual street fair also offers a famous prize drawing, artisanal crafts, and the Kid’s Corner, with arts and crafts, face painting, and more! Free
Japan’s Star Festival: Storytelling, Origami, and Tanabata Decorations
Japan Society
2pm
Recommended 3-10 years
Learn all about Japan’s famous Tanabata legends, Hikoboshi and Orihime, though storytelling and crafts. Part of the Tanabata tradition, guests will make paper ornaments, tanzaku (thin paper strips to write wishes on), and can decorate bamboo branches. $12, Children under 2 are free
