This week is packed with free events for families, including BRIC’s 2024 Juneteenth UNITYFEST, the first ever Show Brooklyn Some Love Fest, the kickoff of DUMBO’s Live at the Archway concert series, Circus Amok performances in Brooklyn parks, the annual Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, and a music and arts festival on Smith Street.
Book Adventures @ Wyckoff Bond Community Garden: Composting | Boerum Hill
Monday, June 17 | 3:30-4:30pm | Ages 3-8 | Register here
Join Carroll Gardens Library in the Wyckoff Bond Community Garden for a series of Book Adventures in May & June. Every other Monday we will meet in the Garden to read stories, sing songs and then do a craft or activity! This week we will be talking about composting! We will read books, sing songs and share rhymes all about worms, bugs, composting and gardens. Afterwards a member of the garden will be there to give kids a demonstration on how the compost works in the community garden! Attendees will also get to take home a Grab & Go Craft Kit so they can make worms at home using beads and pipe cleaners. Please supervise young children under 3 years with these materials. The program is geared towards ages 3-8 and their caregivers, but siblings and younger kids are welcome. Please register! It is not required to attend, but helps us prepare materials to bring to the garden.
Celebration Foods for Juneteenth! @ Central Library | Grand Army Plaza
Monday, June 17 | 6:30-7:30
Join us for an evening of seasonal, ‘uniquely American’ food stories! Learn from Culinary Historian Tonya Hopkins aka The Food Griot about the food (& drink!) associated with Juneteenth and the key role red-hued foods (& drinks) play that distinguishes this early Summer holiday from other gatherings, barbecues, park parties or picnics.
Free Admission Days @ Pier 2 Roller Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Sunday, June 23 | 10am-12pm
Pier 2 Roller Rink offers free admission hours on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays. Roller skate with amazing views of the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan! Skate rental is $8 per person.
Party in the Park: Juneteenth & Eid al-Adha Celebration | Brooklyn Heights
Monday, June 17 | 4-5pm
Join us at Juneteenth Grove in Cadman Park Plaza for a Party in the Park celebrating JUNETEENTH and EID AL-ADHA! We will bring henna for tattoos and lanyard string to make Juneteenth inspired bracelets! Presented in partnership with the Cadman Park Conservancy.
Stomp, Clap & Sing with Jon Samson @ Central Library | Grand Army Plaza
Tuesday, June 18 | 10:30-11:30am
Jon Samson, a native of Johannesburg, South Africa, made history as the first board-certified music therapist to win a Grammy award. He holds a master’s degree in music therapy from NYU and a bachelor’s degree in studio composition from SUNY Purchase. His 4th self-produced album, Ageless: Songs For The Child Archetype, won the Grammy for Best Children’s Album in 2020. Samson has also won four first-place awards in the International Songwriting Competition, the John Lennon Grand Prize, and the Parents’ Gold Choice award. Based in Brooklyn, Jon continues to mentor through his private practice, CoCreative Music, which he founded in 2005. For more info click here.
Tiny Storytime @ Books Are Magic | Cobble Hill & Brooklyn Heights
Tuesday, June 18 | 11am | 225 Smith Street in Cobble Hill
Thursday, June 20 | 11am | 122 Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights
Join Book Are Magic for Tiny Storytime for ages 6-36 months, every Tuesday in Cobble Hill and Thursday in Brooklyn Heights!
Juneteenth Picnic @ Saratoga Library | Bed Stuy
Tuesday, June 18 | 2-3:30pm | Ages 12-18
Celebrate emancipation by joining us in the garden for a Juneteenth Picnic! We provide the snacks, and you provide the vibes. Enjoy traditional African American games like spades and Dominos and Create Juneteenth inspired bracelets while we jam out to traditional favorites.
Juneteenth Story & Chalk Drawing | Brooklyn Heights
Tuesday, June 18 | 3:30-4:30pm
Celebrate Juneteenth as we read books and learn more about the history and traditions of Jubilee Day. Right by Juneteenth Grove in Cadman Park Plaza, we’ll have chalk available for sidewalk chalk art. We’ll enjoy a celebration of learning and literacy with books and music while meeting other members of the community for a great opportunity to have fun and make friends. For all ages and their grownups! Presented in partnership with the Cadman Park Conservancy. BPL librarians Leta & Lupita will lead the event together.
Storytime with Artists Christopher Myers & Joe Namy @ Central Library | Grand Army Plaza
Tuesday, June 18 | 3:30-4:30pm | Ages 5-12
Join celebrated children’s book author and contemporary artist Christopher Myers for a storytime as he reads his book Wings. The storytime takes place in the Grand Lobby art installation created by artist Joe Namy, as part of the exhibition Joe Namy: Heavy with Love. Following Christopher Myers’ storytime, children and caregivers are invited to imagine through drawing. All are welcomed to draw and write on posters, provided by the library and created by artist Joe Namy, who will co-facilitate this art making portion of the program.
Kids Create: Juneteenth Craft @ Adams Street Library | DUMBO
Tuesday, June 18 | 4-5pm | Ages 5-12
Join us for a special kids create to celebrate Juneteenth! Create, experiment and have fun!
Jack and Friends Summer Concert Series: Silly Jazz and Camille | Park Slope
Tuesday, June 18 | 4-4:45pm | Registration opens here 24 hours in advance
The Park Slope Library continues their Jack and Friends Summer concert series with Silly Jazz and Camille. Come dance along in the garden to “silly jazz” with comedian and jazz singer, Camille Harris. Popular songs include: “The Monster Under My Bed,” “Muffin Man,” and “Chopsticks.” This program will have registration that will open 24 hours before the program begins. In the case of inclement weather, the program will be moved to our auditorium and only those registered will be admitted entry.
Youth Basketball Clinic with King Hoops | Pier 2 @ Brooklyn Bridge Park
Tuesday, June 18 | 5-7pm | Ages 4-17 | Register here
Brooklyn Bridge Park is hosting free basketball clinics with King Hoops this summer for kids 4-17! Players may join for individual weeks or the full season. The first hour (5-6 PM) will be for beginner players who are brand new to the sport. Here they will teach the very basic fundamentals of the game, the rules of the game, and getting acclimated to having a ball in each player’s hands. The second hour (6 – 7 PM) is geared for advanced beginners to intermediate players who have played a little bit more basketball. Advanced registration and waivers are required. Registration opens a week ahead of each date. Learn more here!
RECESS @ Industry City | Sunset Park
Tuesday, June 18, Wednesday, June 19, and Thursday, June 20 | 5-9pm
Come join us for an evening of chill vibes and chilled cocktails at Courtyard 1/2. Enjoy music from local DJs for free every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 5-9pm all summer long.
Bedtime Storytime at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Tuesday, June 18 | 6:30pm | Ages 0-5
Join us for an evening of stories and songs! Feel free to wear your pajamas and bring your favorite stuffed animal or blanket. No registration required.
Community Science: Light Trapping | Governors Island
Tuesday, June 18 | 7:30-9:30pm | Register here
Join the Trust for Governors Island’s horticulture team and the Governors Island Nature program for a special nighttime community science activity contributing to the ecological knowledge of the Island!
Light trapping is an effective way to learn about and identify insects that are not as active during the day. By using ultraviolet light in a non-lit area, we will be able to attract night-flying insects, including moths and beetles, to a lightweight sheet, where we can observe specimens and collect data using the iNaturalist app. This data helps us better understand the Island’s insect diversity and ecosystem. This event will be held outdoors on Governors Island, please dress with the weather in mind. If you have a flashlight or headlamp, please bring it with you.
FREE Brooklyn Bridge Building Workshops | City Point
Wednesday, June 19 | 3.30 – 5pm
Join Koko NYC, City Point and Brooklyn Bridge Parents in building the FIRST EVER gigantic Brooklyn Bridge from recycled materials in a free workshop series for children in Grades 2 to 5. Parents/caregivers can drop off their child(ren) for the duration of the workshop or help build. The free workshops will take place on Wednesday, June 19 (public schools closed). Register here.
Juneteenth in Brower Park | Crown Heights
Wednesday, June 19 | 10am-5pm
BCM is proud to partner with Friends of Brower Park, Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, Brooklyn Public Library, and Repair the World for a special Juneteenth commemoration in neighboring Brower Park! Enjoy performances by Brooklyn United Marching Band, a presentation by author Alliah L. Agostini, a storytime led by Laleña Garcia, and a musical performance by Tahira Clayton. Food from GG’s Fish and Chips will be available for purchase on site. Join us in Brower Park on June 19 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm. This celebration is FREE and open to all! BCM will be open from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm for regular admission.
Reading Room at Abolitionist Place | Downtown Brooklyn
Wednesday, June 19 | 2-5pm
A pop-up reading room that offers a curated collection of books and a place to read together in public. Designed for New Yorkers of all ages and always free!
Juneteenth Jubilee @ Nautilus Playground | Coney Island
Wednesday, June 19 | 12-4pm
Join us for our 2024 Juneteenth Jubilee! We’ll be gathering in Coney Island’s Nautilus Playground with our community partners, local small businesses, and performers for an incredible afternoon of rich history, good food, fun giveaways, and community!
Free Admission at New York Aquarium | Coney Island
Wednesday, June 19 | 3-6pm | Reserve tickets here; free tickets are made available at 3pm the Monday before
After Memorial Day weekend, free admission hours at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island are extended from 3:00 all the way to 6:00 p.m. Check out larger-than-life animal sculptures made out of repurposed marine debris in the current exhibition Washed Ashore, open through September 2. There’s so much to do while you’re in Coney Island; check out our guide to planning a day trip this summer here! Note that advance timed tickets are required; the Wednesday Afternoon Ticket Store will open on Monday at 3:00 pm for that Wednesday’s reservations. Do not come to the aquarium without a reserved ticket! There’s a maximum of 4 tickets per order.
Kayaking at Pier 2 | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Wednesday, June 19 & Thursday, June 20 | 5-7pm | Registration required
Saturday, June 22 | 10am-3pm | Registration required
Sunday, June 23 | 12-2:30pm | Registration required
Glide along the water this summer and fall in our protected embayment with free public kayaking! Free kayaking is offered throughout the summer on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, and Saturday and Sunday afternoons through September. All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers — life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Advance registration is required; make a reservation here. Do not walk-up without a registration, as they may not be able to accommodate you!
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! 2024 Juneteenth UNITYFEST | Prospect Park Bandshell
Wednesday, June 19 | Doors at 6pm | Show at 7pm | RSVP here
Join BRIC and Robert Randolph Foundation’s Juneteenth UNITYFEST as we celebrate achievements, address challenges, and collaborate for lasting economic impact in African American communities. The legendary DJ Spinna will headline this celebration of freedom and resilience. Renowned for his genre-defying mastery, Spinna’s electrifying sets traverse Hip-Hop, soul, R&B, jazz, funk, and house. Peven Everrett, Merlin Bobb, Monique Bingham, Voices of a People’s History, and others will join the celebration as we strive to nurture a deeper conversation on unity by honoring the voices, stories, and traditions that lend themselves to the rich and diverse tapestry that is American history and culture. Come to the Park ready to dance, as we commemorate Juneteenth in style!
Lunchtime on the Commons: Kinto Zonó | Downtown Brooklyn
Thursday, June 20 | 12-2pm
Throughout the month of June, visitors to Brooklyn Commons Park will be captivated by incredible performances as our stage comes alive with diverse sounds and entertainment that cater to all. On June 20, catch Kinto Zonó. This electrifying 11-piece Bomba y Plena ensemble, infuses traditional Puerto Rican rhythms with distinctive New York City flavor. Their sound captivates and appeals to traditionalists and modern listeners alike.
After School Movie: The Secret Life of Pets at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Thursday, June 20 | 3:30-5:30pm | Ages 5
After school movie at Brooklyn Heights Library! We are highlighting New York stories as part of our Summer Reading theme: Explore Your City! This week’s movie is The Secret Life of Pets (2016), rated PG. Run time: 1 hour and 30 minutes. No registration required; attendance limited by room capacity.
Free Skateboarding Class @ Underhill Plaza | Prospect Heights
Thursday, June 20 | 4-7pm
Skate Everything School is back on Underhill Plaza with a skateboarding class for all levels! They’ll have boards and gear to borrow, or you can bring your own. SES will hold skate lessons on the Plaza from 4-7pm on third Thursdays of the month while school is in session.
Storytime in Fort Greene Park | Fort Greene
Thursday, June 20 | 4-4:45
Sing, read, and play with librarians from Brooklyn Public Library! Have fun hearing great picture books read aloud and playing with other children during this program featuring guest musical artists from Urban Stages. For children of all ages and their caregivers. Storytime in the Park will be located at the bottom of the monument stairs in Fort Greene Park’s northwest corner. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held at Walt Whitman Library, 93 St. Edwards St., Brooklyn, NY 11205.
Live at the Archway: La Banda Chuska, Fogo Azul, and Sam Ticknor | DUMBO
Thursday, June 20 | Doors at 5pm | Music at 6pm | RSVP here
Live at the Archway is an annual series of free concerts and visual art in the unique setting of the Dumbo Archway. La Banda Chuska re-imagines the vintage sounds of Peruvian cumbia and surf through the lens of their New York City home, and their diverse musical and cultural backgrounds (Peru/Argentina/USA/Puerto Rico). They take inspiration from the twangy 1960s surf bands of Lima, and the psychedelic flavors of 1970s chicha (Los Destellos, Los Orientales de Paramonga). Plus, an opening set by our favorite lady drummers, the samba drum line Fogo Azul. Sam Ticknor brings her free wheeling style to the Art Wall.
Metropolitan Opera | Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thursday, June 20 | 7-9pm
An annual summer tradition, the Metropolitan Opera’s popular concert series in New York City parks kicks off with a free outdoor recital. Three of today’s most exciting young stars—soprano Leah Hawkins, tenor Mario Chang, and bass-baritone Michael Sumuel—come together for an effervescent evening of favorite arias, duets, and ensembles, accompanied by Met assistant conductor Dimitri Dover at the piano.
William Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor Lost in Carroll Park | Carroll Gardens
Performances at 7:30 pm | Thursday, June 20 – Sunday, June 23
From June 5-23, Smith Street Stage presents Shakespeare’s Love’s Labor Lost for free in Carroll Park. Seating is first come, first serve. See the full calendar of performances here. More info here!
Sofar Summer Music Series | Pier 3 Plaza | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thursday, June 20 | Doors at 7:30pm | Music 8-10pm
This month, we’re bringing a @sofarsounds show to you at Brooklyn Bridge Park! In case you don’t know, Sofar transforms spaces into venues for live music shows. Expect local artists, great vibes, and a whole lot of community magic. Sofar is partnering with Brooklyn Bridge Park to bring you a free concert experience every Thursday in June. Join us at Pier 3 Plaza and discover a surprise lineup of artists.
Music with Bubbly B’s in McCarren Park | Williamsburg
Friday, June 21 | 10-11am | Ages 0-5 | RSVP here
Join us for a variety of interactive activities and musical fun by the Bubbly B’s! This class incorporates singing, dancing, letters, numbers, animals, and colors. RSVP is not required but encouraged so that you are notified on any updates/postponements in the event of inclement weather.
Community Science Fishing | Pier 5 | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Friday, June 21 | 4-6pm | Register here
Learn the basics of catch-and-release line fishing from the Brooklyn Bridge Conservancy’s own expert anglers. During this clinic, participants of all ages will learn how to tie knots, bait a hook, drop a line, and (with some luck) reel up a fish! Contribute to the Conservancy’s community science efforts as we collect data from our catch to assess the health of the East River. No experience or supplies needed – equipment is provided but please note only a limited rods are available to loan and will be handed out on a first come, first served basis. All ages are welcome at this free event!
Make Music New York | Various Locations
Friday, June 21 | 10am-10pm
Completely different from a typical music festival, Make Music New York is open to anyone who wants to take part. From 10 in the morning to 10 at night, every kind of musician — young and old, amateur and professional, of every musical persuasion — pours onto streets, sidewalks, parks, and plazas to share their music with friends, neighbors, and strangers. And everyone is invited to sing along and enjoy the first day of summer! Visit the Program Guide Map to browse Brooklyn locations, which include Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn Borough Hall, Brooklyn Commons, Fort Greene Park, Hoyt Open Street, and so much more. Just a few highlights of the festival are listed below:
- Hoyt Open Street: Jenny Marie | Boerum Hill
Friday, June 21 | 11am-7pm
Stop by Hoyt Open Street from 4:30 to 7:30pm to hear live music from Jenny Marie and the crew! - Make Music New York: Jitu Weusi Plaza | Clinton Hill
Friday, June 21 | 11am-7pm
What’s the first day of summer without music? Luckily, New Yorkers might never know, because we celebrate the summer solstice with Make Music New York, and this year is no exception! It’s an all-day party, featuring various artists, including a DJ and several jazz musicians, who invite you to slow down, pull up a chair, enjoy lunch or a meet-up with friends to the sounds of music. Artists will be: DJ Des One, Robert Rutledge, Tropical Rhythms, Nikita & Company. - Brooklyn Borough Hall Plaza: J La Sol and Batalà New York | Brooklyn Heights
Friday, June 21 | 12-3:30pm
Stop by to see J La Sol, hip-hop emcee and poet, from 12-2pm, followed by Batalà New York, an all-women, Black-led, percussion ensemble, from 2:30-3:30 at Columbus Park, at the foot of Borough Hall. - Performances in Fort Greene Park | Fort Greene
Friday, June 21 | 3-7pm
Performances will include The Rob Bostick “SOLO” Fuse Orchestra, SINTHORO, Sound Bridges and Percussive Dance, Dawson Atkin, and Thea Mundy. - NFBID Hot Sounds of Summer | Prospect Heights
Friday, June 21 | 4pm
In celebration with Make Music New York, the North Flatbush Avenue BID will be hosting Hot Sounds of Summer, a music-filled Triangle party on the longest day of the year! Let’s welcome summer with sun, fun, and our neighbors! Live music from our talented artists: Salvo Musica: 4-5pm J.A.W.: 5-6:30pm Hot Club of Flatbush: 6:30-8pm Come out and celebrate with us! Don’t miss out on all the Make Music New York performances going on around the district and throughout the city! - Kyo Shin An Shakuhachi Ensemble | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Friday, June 21 | 4-6pm
Shakuhachi is the Japanese end-blown bamboo flute. Originally played by monks of Zen Buddhism, the shakuhachi’s unique music has been passed down through the centuries in an unbroken tradition. The Kyo Shin An Shakuhachi Ensemble is led by Grand Master James Nyoraku Schlefer, one of the most active performers and teachers in the United States. This concert will gather six-eight, NY-based shakuhachi artists to perform solo and ensemble music from the Japanese classic repertoire, creating a tranquil atmosphere for contemplation and relaxation. - Hoyt Open Street: Jenny Marie | Boerum Hill
Friday, June 21 | 4:30-7:30pm
Stop by Hoyt Open Street from 4:30 to 7:30pm to hear live music from Jenny Marie and the crew! - Myrtle Avenue Summer Nights | Clinton Hill
Friday, June 21 | 5-8pm
Myrtle Avenue Summer Nights are back! Our beautiful & spacious outdoor plaza is located on Myrtle Avenue, nestled between Hall St. & Emerson Pl. in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. There is a built-in stage area located at Steuben where we host Myrtle Avenue Summer Nights as well as other medium to large-scale performances and activations. - East River Ferry Sunset River Crossing: Brenda Hutchinson and dailybell | DUMBO to Wall Street/Pier 11
Friday, June 21 | 7:45-9pm
East River Ferry Service, DUMBO to Wall Street. Sunset is 8:30! Meet in line just prior to the Ferry that crosses from DUMBO to Wall St. at sunset. Bring bells if you have them. Otherwise, we will have some to give away to the early birds.
Jazz at Jitu: Nikita and Company | Clinton Hill
Friday, June 21 | 5-7pm | Jitu Weusi Plaza
Chicago native Nikita White grew up singing in the church, and in a family gospel group. At 20 years old, she moved to NYC and studied vocals with the late great legendary Barry Harris. She has worked with the late great Mulgrew Miller, Kenny Washington, Ray Blue, Stanley Banks, Patience Higgins, and so many of our musical heroes from the New York jazz scene. Known for her rich, enchanting voice, Nikita swings jazz, scats bebop, and can lay the blues out like some of her favorite icons Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan. Don’t miss her live performance on the plaza, accompanied by her band! Free; seating is limited, so feel free to bring your own portable lawn chair. In case of inclement weather, the event will move across the street into 966 Fulton.
Movies Under the Stars: The Little Mermaid (2023) at McGolrick Park | Greenpoint
Friday, June 21 | 9-11pm | PG | Register here
Grab a blanket and come enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars! The youngest of King Triton’s daughters and the most defiant, Ariel longs to find out more about the world beyond the sea and, while visiting the surface, falls for the dashing Prince Eric. While mermaids are forbidden to interact with humans, Ariel must follow her heart. She makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, which gives her a chance to experience life on land but ultimately places her life – and her father’s crown – in jeopardy. Movies begin at dusk. In the event of heavy rain or extreme weather, the screening may be canceled. The decision to cancel the event will be made prior to the screening and will be promptly posted on the NY Parks website.
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Ana Tijoux & Ambar Lucid | Prospect Park Bandshell
Friday, June 21 | Doors at 7pm | Show at 8pm | RSVP here
Ana Tijoux weaves lush, golden-era Hip-Hop production with a full band that brings to life intricate arrangements spiced with a bit of politics. A skilled singer and rapper, the revered Chilean MC was dubbed “South America’s answer to Lauryn Hill” by The New York Times. Mexican, Dominican, and American singer/songwriter Ambar Lucid captivates audiences with her indie pop/alternative Latin sound, and inimitable sonic storytelling that blends English and Spanish.
Vanderbilt Open Streets | Prospect Heights
Friday, June 21, 5-10pm | Saturday, June 22, 12-10pm | Sunday, June 23, 12-5pm
Vanderbilt Avenue’s Open Streets program features activities and performances for the community. Stay up to date on their Instagram to see what live music performances and other programming is coming this weekend! Highlights this weekend include:
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Outdoor Salsa & Bachata Night with DJ Gil Hernandez | Saturday, June 22 | 5-9pm | Join us for an electrifying evening of salsa dancing under the stars on Vanderbilt Avenue! Starting May 18th and continuing every 3rd Saturday until September, we invite you to immerse yourself in the rhythms of Latin music at our outdoor Salsa events from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Circus Amok | Various Locations
Friday, June 21 | 6pm | Marsha P Johnson State Park | Williamsburg
Saturday, June 22 | 2pm & 5pm | Prospect Park
Sunday, June 23 | 2pm & 5pm | Coney Island
Circus Amok is a New York City-based circus-theater company that provides free public art addressing contemporary issues of social justice to the people of New York City. Directed and founded by Jennifer Miller, the group has been together since 1989, bringing its funny, queer, caustic, sexy, political, one-ring spectacles to neighborhoods throughout the city. Traditional circus skills are combined with experimental dance, life-size puppetry, music old and new, gender-bending performance art, and improvisation, creating new meanings for the circus while continuing to entertain crowds of all ages throughout the city streets, gardens, parks, and playgrounds. Circus Amok invites the audience to envision a more empowered life of community interaction while enjoying a queer celebratory spectacle. This season, Circus Amok presents“THE DOUBLE, or, The Wisdom of the Owl,” in your park! This uniquely creative experience is filled with performance, music, dance, and deft-defying skills of all kinds. Free, no RSVP required!
Live Salsa Music @ Sahadi’s | Industry City | Sunset Park
Every Friday | 6:30-9:30pm
Come join us at Sahadi’s for an unforgettable evening of summer Salsa music. Cuarteto Guataca plays high energy acoustic Son Cubano and Salsa with an old school sound, making people dance in clubs, parks and streets of NYC since 2012. See all upcoming salsa nights here.
Weekly Friday Night Fireworks | Coney Island
Starts June 21 at 9:45pm
Head to the Coney Island boardwalk to catch weekly fireworks kicking off on the Summer Solstice! Arrive early for a trip to neighboring Luna Park, New York Aquarium, or a Brooklyn Cyclones game at Maimonides Park. Check out our summer guide to visiting Coney Island here!
Saturday, June 22 | 10am-12pm
Enjoy an afternoon of puppetry with Mango Moon. Build a puppet, meet wacky characters, sing catchy songs, and learn fun academic strategies, all while building key social-emotional skills. This program combines Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), academics, and off-the-wall entertainment to create a warm environment that goes above and beyond your standard children’s program.
Show Brooklyn Some Love Fest | Downtown Brooklyn
Saturday, June 22 | 11am-2pm
Brooklyn Org, Brooklyn Bridge Parents, Brooklyn Made, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership and City Point unite the community and bring the borough’s spirit to life at the first “Show Brooklyn Some Love Fest”. The free event will showcase arts, music and dance performances for all ages by Brooklyn’s non-profits. Kids will have an opportunity to show their love for our Borough by participating in building the FIRST EVER gigantic Brooklyn Bridge from recycled materials. Face painting, comics, crafts, coloring and so much more… the event will celebrate Brooklyn and its wonderful communities. Outdoors at Albee Square and indoors at City Point. Visit the website for more event highlights.
Storytime at Books Are Magic with Kara Kramer: Erno Rubik and his Magic Cube | Brooklyn Heights
Saturday, June 22 | 11am
Join for storytime with author Kara Kramer at Books Are Magic on Montague Street! This first picture book biography of Erno Rubik, creator of the Rubik’s Cube, reveals the obsession, imagination, and engineering process behind the creation of a bestselling puzzle that will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2024.
Saturday Storytime with authors Fasika Adefris and Sara Holly Ackerman @ Central Library | Grand Army Plaza
Saturday, June 22 | 11am
Join authors Fasika Adefris and Sara Holly Ackerman for a read-aloud of their picture book, The Gabi that Girma Wore. Written in the cadence of The House That Jack Built, this vibrant and lushly illustrated tale pays tribute to the Gabi— a traditional Ethiopian cloth that is used to celebrate both community and culture. From the tiny seed to the fluffy white cotton, from the steady hands of the farmer to the swift fingers of the weaver, from the busy shopkeeper, to a gift for a loved one, follow the journey of the Gabi that Girma wore in this lively and rhythmic tale that’s perfect to read aloud.
Storytime at The Center for Fiction Bookstore | Fort Greene
Saturday, June 22 | 12pm | RSVP here
Join us every Saturday at noon for Story Time at The Center for Fiction Bookstore, where each week we read from some of our favorite books for young people! Led by our booksellers, this is a free community event open to people of all ages.
Meet Pokémon Star Sarah Natochenny @ Japan Village | Industry City
Saturday, June 22 | 12-5pm
Sarah is a Voice Arts Award-winning actor best known for her role as Ash Ketchum and over 30 other characters on Pokémon since 2006. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to meet her in person! There will be a panel from 12 to 1pm, and a signing from 1 to 5pm. In addition, Tenshi & Zilla is teaming up with various vendors to bring exclusive Pokémon products to this exciting event, including cards, plushies, toys, and more. Vendors will be open from 1 to 7pm. Come and be a part of this exciting event at Japan Village!
Folk School Music Festival at Jalopy Theatre | Red Hook
Saturday, June 22 | 2-5pm | Free tickets here
See what The Jalopy School of Folk Music has been up to this year – and join right in! Jams, sing-a-longs, hands-on instrument test drives, informal workshops, and an all-student/staff showcase! See the full lineup here.
The 42nd Annual Mermaid Parade | Coney Island
Saturday, June 22 | 1pm
Founded in 1983, the Mermaid Parade pays tribute to a century of Coney Island ingenuity, revelry, and pageantry by celebrating the artistic vision of the masses. With everything from a crowned King Neptune and Queen Mermaid, fantastical sea creatures and mer-folk, marching bands and dancing groups, to baby strollers and mechanized floats, it showcases the creativity of individuals from the five boroughs and beyond. It opens the summer with a celebration of incredible art, NYC’s entrepreneurial spirit, and our community pride.
Party as Participation | Governors Island
Saturday, June 22 | 1-3pm | RSVP here
Elisabeth Smolarz will craft 4 unique ice cream flavors inspired by her experiences during her 2012 artist residency on Governors Island. These flavors will celebrate the friendships and artist communities she formed during that time, as well as the distinctive features of the island itself, such as the weeping willow tree, the lavender fields, and the beloved Governors Island sheep: Flour, Sam, Evening, Chad, and Philip Aries. The tasting event will offer a culinary journey blending elements of childhood nostalgia, art, and nature.
PLG Arts Fest | Prospect Lefferts Gardens
Saturday, June 22, 1-5pm | Sunday, June 23, 2-7pm
PLG Arts will host its third annual Arts Fest at BKLYN Commons and Gaia NoMaya, free for all ages. This year, the indoor Fest offers an arts exhibition and sale by 35 local visual artists, artmaking for the whole family, musical performances, and refreshments. On June 22, works from more than 35 local visual artists will be on display and available for purchase, along with opportunities for family artmaking. From 1pm-5pm, artists will have the opportunity to network and support each other at BKLYN Commons, while offering residents to discover new art and become collectors. On Sunday, June 23, three musical groups will perform from 2pm-7pm. Refreshments will be available for purchase both days. See the schedule for both days here.
The Wordsmith Showcase: A Day of Music and Poetry in Fort Greene Park | Fort Greene
Saturday, June 22 | 3-6pm | RSVP here
Join us for a day of poetry performances and expression. Hosted by Tanja Richardson and Keenan Watson, The Wordsmith will feature poets: Cito Blanko, Ketriana Yvonne, and Keys Will. Writers of all ages are welcome to participate in an open mic.
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! meets NPR Tiny Desk Contest On The Road: Thee Sacred Souls & Adi Oasis | Prospect Park Bandshell
Saturday, June 22 | Doors at 6pm | Show at 7pm | RSVP here
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! is partnering with NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest for the third year in a row! Join us for a night of musical discovery headlined by Thee Sacred Souls and their musical tapestry-weaving that blends ’60s soul with ’70s R&B. Adi Oasis opens the night with her soaring vocal chops and lively blend of soul, funk, and R&B. Also featuring a set by this year’s Tiny Desk Contest winner. NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest is returning to BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Nearly 7,000 musicians entered this year’s Tiny Desk Contest, NPR Music’s annual search for the next great undiscovered artist. After the winner plays a Tiny Desk concert, they’ll hit the road for a country-wide tour. Join us on June 22nd for a one-of-a-kind concert with the 2024 Contest winner, plus special (TBA) headlining acts.
CANCELLED DUE TO HEAT: Montague Open Streets | Brooklyn Heights
Cancelled: Sunday, June 23 | 10am-7pm
Due to the extreme heat, Open Streets will take a break this Sunday. Stay tuned for next week’s schedule, which will be the last before the summer break!
Brooklyn Pop-Up Market | Brooklyn Museum
Sunday, June 23 | 10:30am-5:30pm
Stop by our market to shop one-of-a-kind, handmade items from local artisans. This weekly event features more than 35 vendors offering artwork, jewelry, fashion, home and apothecary goods, and more.
CANCELLED DUE TO HEAT: DUMBO Family Games on Car-Free Washington Street | DUMBO
Cancelled: Sunday, June 23 | 11am-1pm
DUMBO Family Games has been cancelled this week due to the extreme heat. Family Games will return next weekend!
The NEW Smith Street Music and Arts Festival | Carroll Gardens
Sunday, June 23 | 12-9pm | Smith Street from Bergen to Union
Join for live music, outdoor dining, mini circus, craft and art vendors, a bounce world, and more! The Smith Street Music and Arts Festival will take place on Smith Street between Bergen and Union. Free concerts at the main stage between Warren & Baltic will take place from 1 to 8:30pm and will include Caroline Kuhn Band, Treble NYC (an all-female a cappella group), The Old Grimes, Dirt Weeds, Afro Latineers, and Rebel Kicks. Champion Martial Arts will do a presentation in the same area at 2pm. SkyZ the Limit’s mini circus will be performing and interacting between Butler & Douglas from 1:30 to 7:00pm. All of these activities are free, but visitors will be able to support our local restaurants with outdoor dining. Neighboring restaurants include Black Forest, Mad for Chicken, Rua Thai, Leyenda, Clover Club, Mercado, and more. White Maize and The New Nature’s Grill will have outdoor cooking and music! Participating shops include See Optical, Books Are Magic, and Enamoo. There will be bounce attractions between Sackett and Union, with a fee.
Sunday, June 23 | 12-5pm | Free, RSVP here
Get ready for a day filled with all things natural hair at the Tompkins Avenue Merchants Association. Join us for a celebration of curls, kinks, and coils. Discover new products, techniques, and styles while connecting with fellow natural hair enthusiasts. From vendors to live demos, this event is a must-attend for anyone embracing their natural beauty. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate and empower natural hair! Free hair giveaways when you RSVP! Follow the hair convos and more on Instagram.
Lazy Daze: Friends and Lovers x MoCADA | Pier 6 Liberty Lawn | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Sunday, June 23 | 4-9pm
On Sunday, June 23, come celebrate Pride, Black Music Month, Immigrant Heritage, and Juneteenth weekend with Friends and Lovers, MoCADA, and Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy at Pier 6. It’s all happening from 4 to 9pm with DJ Hourglass, Uproot Andy, and a live performance by Terence Etc of his debut full-length album, Vortex, out now on Brainfeeder Records. So fix up, look sharp, and tell a friend to tell a friend that we’re looking shine bright in the name of good food, quality drink, and great people! Come with friends, or come alone — these afternoons are an opportunity to relax, lay out, and do not too much of anything. We’re taking lazy Sundays very seriously, creating moments for good vibes and good people. Food and drink will be available for sale by Fornino.
Movie Nights at Habana Outpost: The Karate Kid (2010) | Fort Greene
Sunday, June 23 | 8pm | PG
Every Sunday starting tomorrow we’ll be rolling out our all time favorites! Come and join us for The Karate Kid this week!
Updated: June 22, 2024. Main Image: Show Brooklyn Some Love Fest Brooklyn Bridge Building workshops
