This week, we urge you to take out your calendar before diving into the weekends events, because many of the top artists in kids’ music are beginning their summer tours. Take note of the dates, then check out these great family movie nights, too. With that taken care of, the family can look forward to a whole host of outdoor festivities, including a big BBQ block party, a vintage police car show, and a wonderful Carnival Night for Kids that gives back to other families.
STARTING FRIDAY
Shy? If Presley and Melody, who mix music and theater, don’t get you moving, then no one will. Check them out at Yorkville Library. (Friday)
The surprise museum hit for kids this summer is a room full of rain you can control at MoMA PS1–who would have guess? Wild! (Friday-Sunday)
Theater 2020 brings the Shakespearean comedy of love, music, and fairies to Brooklyn Bridge Park for a wholesome family night under the stars. To go or not to go? (Friday-Sunday)
STARTING SATURDAY
Get up close and personal with patrol cars at the NYC Police Museum’s car show, featuring classic vehicles and original speedsters in famous TV shows. Holy cop! (Saturday)
WeBop is hosting its first-ever Family Jazz Party at Jazz at Lincoln Center, where Jimmy Cobb will be drumming up some dance-worthy rhythms. Rock on. (Saturday)
Boat races, kayaking, and fishing are just some of the fun at the Harlem River Festival at Sherman Creek Park, where live entertainment and nature exploration abound. Go green! (Saturday)
Make your own puppets, enjoy sing-alongs and story time, and delight in a Twilight parade in the name of community support at Brooklyn Pride’s annual celebration on Fifth Avenue. Cheers! (Saturday)
At the Ezra Jack Keats Family Concert at the Prospect Park Bandshell, enjoy the world-famous jazz notes of Wynton Marsalis and listen to stories from the musician himself. Ready to rock? (Saturday)
This weekend only, take part in a series of collaborate art projects on Governors Island, then check out the summer’s new interactive art installations. Jump in! (Saturday & Sunday)
Channel the summer spirit with a big Big Apple Barbecue Block Party in Madison Square Park, where you can sample ribs, chicken, sausages, and more. Who’s hungry? (Saturday & Sunday)
STARTING SUNDAY
Catch Dan Zanes and Elizabeth Mitchell before playing games, listening to Native American stories, and other seasonal fun at Wagner Park’s Almost Summer celebration. More here. (Sunday)
Two cultures merge at the Museum at Eldridge Street’s Egg Rolls & Egg Creams Festival, full of Chinese and Jewish noshees and entertainment. Get educated! (Sunday)
Introduce little ones to beautiful drum and trumpet and saxophone sounds at the family-friendly Red Hook Jazz Festival at Urban Meadow. Classy. (Sunday)
BONUS TIP