Brooklyn is buzzing with family-friendly fun this week, including the return of Summer Saturdays at Atlantic Terminal Mall, with free crafts, games, block building and water play for the kids! In Williamsburg, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Giglio Carnival brings Italian food, music, and tradition to the streets all week long. Catch Wimbledon on the lawn in Brooklyn Bridge Park, celebrate City of Water Day with waterfront activities across the borough, and catch some rides at the Flatbush Avenue Street Fair. Plus, don’t miss Hip Hop Closet’s Block Party at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, the Fort Greene Jazz Festival and Soul Summit Music Festival, both in Fort Greene Park, Second Sundays at Pioneer Works in Red Hook, and the NYC Poetry Festival on Governors Island.
MONDAY
Native Plants and Animals Relationships: A Botanical Art Class Series for Kids at Sunset Park Library | Sunset Park
Monday, July 7 | 2-4pm | Ages 7-12 | Registration required
Join us for a Botanical Art illustration class series! Through guided instruction, demos, and art examples, participants will create artwork related to the theme of plants and animals, merging science with art. All materials will be provided. A one-day public exhibit of participants’s artwork will take place at the Sunset Park Library on Friday, July 18.
Free Admission Days @ Pier 2 Roller Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
The Pier 2 Roller Rink in Brooklyn Bridge Park 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.
Lego Robotics at Adams Street Library | DUMBO
Monday, June 30 | 4-5pm | Ages 9-17 | Registration required
Learn to use advanced LEGO robotics sets while exploring STEM concepts and making new friends. Registration required!
Free Family Movie Night: Inside Out 2 at Brooklyn Cyclones | Coney Island
Monday, July 7 | 7-10pm | RSVP here
Come join us for a fun-filled evening at Brooklyn Cyclones! Grab your blankets and get ready for a night of movie magic under the stars. Our outdoor event will feature a family-friendly movie, Inside Out 2.
TUESDAY
Carroll Gardens Pop-Up Library Opening Celebration | Carroll Gardens
Tuesday, July 8 | 12:30-1:00pm
You’re invited to Carroll Gardens Pop-Up Library’s Opening Celebration! Join your neighbors, community leaders and staff in celebrating the opening of Carroll Gardens Pop-Up Library at 250 Baltic Street. This location will serve as a place to borrow and return books while Carroll Garden Library is under renovation.
Mr. Simon at Clinton Hill Library | Clinton Hill
Tuesday, July 8 | 4:00-4:30pm | Ages 0-5
We welcome back Mr. Simon to Clinton Hill, for another exciting afternoon of music! Originally from Sydney Australia, Mr. Simon is a fun, energetic and engaging music enrichment provider. He uses interactive songs, puppets, and more to inspire and delight infants through pre-K children in New York and beyond!
Tween Tuesdays: Just Dance! at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Tuesday, July 8 | 4-5pm | Ages 9-13
Show us your best moves today when we play “Just Dance”! Snacks will be provided.
New Mom Meet Up at Fontainhas | DUMBO
Tuesdays | 4:30-6:00pm
Bring your baby to Fontainhas for some cozy chai and hangs with other new moms. Hosted every week by the new mom pop-up POST.
Youth Basketball Clinics with King Hoops | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Tuesdays in June & July | 5-7pm | Ages 4-17 | Register here
Kids ages 4-17 can join Brooklyn Bridge Park for free basketball clinics led by KING Hoops! Learn basketball basics as head coaches lead participants through drills and games. The first hour (5-6pm) will be for beginner players who are brand new to the sport. The second hour (6-7pm) will be for advanced beginners to intermediate players. Advanced registration and waivers are required, although walk-up registrations can be accommodated as space allows. Registration is by-the-week.
Sunset Volunteer Series | Prospect Park
Tuesday, July 8 | 5-7pm | Ages 14+ | Register here
Join Prospect Park Alliance for a new weekday evening volunteer opportunity. Volunteers will help with invasive plant removal, litter pickup and mulching. Please note that start and end times for Sunset Series vary depending on the sunset.
Cobble Hill Music in the Park: Taylor Crawford | Cobble Hill
Tuesday, July 8 | 6-7pm | RSVP here
We’re thrilled to once again bring free, live music to Cobble Hill Park, a summer tradition for neighbors of all ages. Join on July 8 for Taylor Crawford with in-your-face indie anthems. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer evening and connect with your community.
Waterfront Walks | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Tuesday, July 8 | 6:30-8:00pm | Register here
Join our docents for a free walking tour to learn about the history of the Brooklyn waterfront, Brooklyn Bridge Park’s sustainable design and ecology, and how the Park came to life! Tours last roughly 60-90 minutes, and start from the entrance of Pier 1 and finish near Pier 3.
NIA Free Summer Concerts: Head Over Heels | Bay Ridge
Tuesday, July 8 | 7–8pm
Free Summer Concerts return to Shore Park Shore Rd & 79th St in Bay Ridge every Tuesday in July and August, with the main band starting at 7pm and an opening act from School of Rock at 6pm! This week, see Head Over Heels, a pop Top 40 band. Check NIA’s Instagram and website for rain date announcements.
WEDNESDAY
Cadman Park Storytime at Juneteeth Grove | Brooklyn Heights
Wednesday, July 9 | 10:30-11:00am
Join us for Outdoor Storytime at Cadman Park. We will be singing songs and reading stories on the grass right next to the Juneteenth Grove. For all ages and their grownups. No registration required.
Storytime in the Park for Toddlers in Brower Park | Crown Heights
Wednesday, July 9 | 10:30-11:00am
Join us for Storytime in the Park on Wednesdays! We will be singing songs, learning rhymes, and reading books together. This Storytime is for toddlers who are walking.
Teen Service Series: Green Prospect Park | Prospect Park
Wednesday, July 9 | 11am-1pm | For teens | Register here
Help remove invasive plants, maintain woodland trails and other forest restoration work to help Prospect Park thrive. All tools are provided + no experience is necessary. Earn service hours while helping to maintain the park!
Storytime in the Park for Babies in Brower Park | Crown Heights
Wednesday, July 9 | 11:15-11:45am
Join us for Storytime in the Park on Wednesdays! We will be singing songs, learning rhymes, and reading books together. This Storytime is for babies who are not yet walking.
Foraging Series for Teens in McGolrick Park | Greenpoint
Wednesday, July 9 | 12:00-1:30pm | Ages 13+ | Register here
Teens, join us in a foraging series led by Journei Bimwala. In this second session, step outside and into the world of urban foraging. Teens will sharpen their observation skills, learn to identify common edible and medicinal plants, and connect more deeply with the nature in their neighborhood.
Wednesday Wonders at Abolitionist Place | Downtown Brooklyn
Wednesday, July 9 | 12:00-2:30pm
Come to Abolitionist Place for Wednesday Wonders, an afternoon of games, relays, and sports with My Gym City Point (12-1pm) as well as puppet shows, hula-hooping with RollerBoogie (1:30-2:30pm).
Puppet Making at McCarren Park | Williamsburg
Wednesday, July 9 | 3:30pm | Ages 0-5
Come along with the JCC Brooklyn North Williamsburg for summer full of FREE fun activities for the kids! Join us for Puppet Making at McCarren Park.
Opening Night: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast and Giglio Carnival | Williamsburg
Wednesday, July 9 | 7pm | Carnival runs through Sunday, July 20
The Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Giglio Carnival is a beloved Italian tradition in Williamsburg that dates back to 1887. This family-friendly street festival features food vendors, rides, and games, but it’s best known for the Giglio—a 65-foot-tall, 4-ton wooden tower adorned with flowers and statues. In a dramatic display, 120 men lift the towering structure while a live band plays from the top. The festivities run from July 9 to 20; check out the full schedule of events here.
Free Admission at New York Aquarium | Coney Island
Wednesdays | 3-6pm | Reserve tickets here; free tickets are made available at 3pm the Monday before
Take advantage of free admission hours at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. 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.
Free Kayaking at Pier 4 Beach | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Wednesdays | 5-7pm | Register here in advance!
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s free kayaking program runs on Wednesday and Thursday evenings (5-7pm), Saturdays (10am-4pm) with Family Days on Sundays (12-2:30pm) through August. 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 reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Plaza Performance: DJ Max Glazer at Central Library | Prospect Heights
Wednesday, July 9 (Rain date: Thursday, July 10) | 6-8pm
Max Glazer has represented New York City, touring the world DJing parties for superstars like Naomi Campbell, Puff Daddy, Missy Elliott, 50 Cent, Branford Marsalis, and Jay-Z, to name just a few.
THURSDAY
Tot Time at Marsha P. Johnson State Park | Williamsburg
Thursdays | 10-11am | Ages 5 and under | RSVP here
This nature program for ages 5 and under in Marsha P. Johnson State Park is FREE! Supplies are provided on a first come, first serve basis.
Prospect Park Stroller Walk | Prospect Park
Thursdays | 10am-12pm | RSVP here
Calling all parents and caregivers with children! Join a Prospect Park Alliance Naturalist at the Prospect Park Audubon Center for a leisurely stroll along Prospect Park’s waterways. Please note that this walk leaves promptly at 10 am from the Prospect Park Audubon Center.
Summer Spruce Up | Prospect Park
Thursday, July 10 | 10am-1pm | For teens and adults | RSVP here
Join Prospect Park Alliance for a special summer work session at our Summer Spruce Up volunteer series. Volunteers will assist in tasks such as invasive plant removal, trail maintenance, litter pick up, and other landscaping needs. The group meets at a different location every week. If you RSVP, you will receive a reminder email with the meeting location.
Storytime in the Park | Fort Greene Park
Thursdays | 11am
Sing, read, and play with librarians from Walt Whitman Library in Fort Greene Park! For children of all ages and their caregivers. Located at the bottom of the Monument stairs near Myrtle Playground. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held at Walt Whitman Pop-up Library, 240 Nassau Street, 2nd Floor.
Stomp, Clap & Sing with Esther Crow at Clinton Hill Library | Clinton Hill
Thursday, July 10 | 11:00-11:30am | Ages 0-6
Esther Crow is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and teacher. Each of her puppets has big personalities and dance moves of their own, like Bernie the Bee, who loves to eat anchovies and dance to the sound of a kazoo. She weaves comedy and kindness into each show, while encouraging kids to shake instruments and move their bodies.
Pop-up Fishing Clinic at Prospect Park Lake | Prospect Park
Thursday, July 10 | 12-2pm
Participate in a free beginner’s fishing clinic. Participants will receive basic hands-on fishing instruction and will learn about fish identification, fisheries management, fishing techniques, and more! All fishing gear and bait will be provided. No registration or fishing license is required to participate.
Nature Exploration: Lake Appreciation | Prospect Park
Thursday, July 10 | 12-4pm
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Participants will learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse and observe our underwater invertebrates up close using magnifying glasses. Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake.
Community Access Thursdays at Brooklyn Children’s Museum | Crown Heights
Thursdays | 2-5pm | Reserve here
Explore some of the museum’s most-loved exhibits, including toddler-favorite Totally Tots, the miniature shops of World Brooklyn, our NEST kids’ climber, and more. Then check out ColorLab, the family art studio located on the 2nd floor of the Museum, where artists of all ages can explore, make, and celebrate art. It’s recommended that you reserve your tickets in advance online. Walk-ins always welcome.
Open Hours at the Environmental Education Center | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thursdays | 3-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Summer Movie: Tarzan at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Thursday, July 10 | 3:30-5:00pm | Ages 5+
This week’s movie: “Tarzan” (1999), rated G. Run time: 1 hour and 28 minutes. No registration required; attendance limited by room capacity.
Summer Sounds with Afrazz at Clinton Hill Library | Clinton Hill
Thursday, July 10 | 4-5pm
Celebrate the summer with the live Afro-Cuban jazz of the ever-popular Afrazz! This will be an indoor concert held on the main floor of the library.
Comic Book Club at Adams Street Library | DUMBO
Thursday, July 10 | 4:30-5:30pm | Grades 4-12 | Register here
Like comics, graphic novels, and/or manga? Explore the materials, process, and styles of comics as you create your own!
Pop-up Fishing Clinic at Prospect Park Lake | Prospect Park
Thursday, July 10 | 5-7pm
Participate in a free beginner’s fishing clinic. Participants will receive basic hands-on fishing instruction and will learn about fish identification, fisheries management, fishing techniques, and more! All fishing gear and bait will be provided. No registration or fishing license is required to participate.
Free Kayaking at Pier 4 Beach | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Thursdays | 5-7pm | Register here in advance!
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 reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Live at the Archway: Brasil Summerfest, 20×200 + Joan LeMay | DUMBO
Thursday, July 10 | Doors at 5pm | Music 6:00-7:30pm
Music, drinks and dancing—and a giant coloring book wall—in Brooklyn’s most unique venue. On July 10, Brasil Summerfest is back with Os Cavalitos, an “American samba band”, plus a 20×200 collab on the art wall. And for the grown-ups: cocktails, beer, wine + more at The Archway Bar!
SummerStage: Big Freedia, Courtney “Balenciaga” Washington’s MasterZ at Work & DJ Butchish | Bed-Stuy
Thursday, July 10 | 5:30-9:00pm
SummerStage returns this summer with more than 70 free concerts in parks across all five boroughs! Catch these acts at Herbert Von King Park in Bed-Stuy: Big Freedia, Courtney “Balenciaga” Washington’s MasterZ at Work & DJ Butchish.
Summer Sunset Salsa at Atlantic Terminal Mall Plaza | Downtown Brooklyn
Thursdays, 6-9pm | Through July 17
Join Nieves Latin Dance Studio outside Atlantic Terminal on Thursday nights for a live DJ spinning salsa, bachata & Latin beats and free dance lessons led by professional instructors from Nieves.
Children’s Giglio: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast and Giglio Carnival | Williamsburg
Thursday, July 10 | 6:30-10:30pm | Carnival runs through Sunday, July 20
Join for the Children’s Giglio as part of the The Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Williamsburg. The festivities run from July 9 to 20; check out the full schedule of events here.
Thursday Movie Nights: Back to the Future at Charlotte Patisserie | Greenpoint
Thursday, July 10 | 7pm | PG
Join us in the garden for cozy summer evenings, classic films, and your favorite treats under the stars. Thursdays at 7 pm. Enjoy drinks, desserts, and a touch of magic! On July 10, join for Back to the Future, rated PG.
FRIDAY
Family Fridays at City League Coffee | Bay Ridge
Fridays | 9:30-10:30am
Every Friday, City League Coffee invites parents, grandparents, siblings, caregivers and their little ones to join us for a fun-filled exciting hour. Each week is designed to feature a different activity that fosters a sense of togetherness between neighbors.
Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Friday, July 11 | 10:30am-1:15pm | PG-13
Join us on Fridays at 10:30 am for a matinee movie screening in our Multipurpose Room.
Nature Exploration: Lake Appreciation | Prospect Park
Friday, July 11 | 12-3pm
Join Prospect Park Alliance for these free nature programs:
- Pond water sampling | 12-3 pm | Did you know that an entire community of living insects, plants and animals makes the Lullwater their home? Get a closer view with one of our Naturalists.
- Let’s go to the Zoo! | 2-3 pm | Join us for an exciting trip to the Prospect Park Zoo, where we’ll explore a world of amazing animals. Along the way, we’ll learn fun facts, watch animals in action, and maybe even observe an animal feeding or two.
Perspectives: A photography class presented by Extreme Kids & Crew at Brower Park Library | Crown Heights
Friday, July 11 | 3:00-4:30pm | For teens
In this program, teens will have the opportunity to engage in visual conversations related to identity, community, and social justice through the art of photography.
Stomp, Clap, and Sing with Suzi Shelton at Greenpoint Library | Greenpoint
Friday, July 11 | 3:30-4:30pm | Ages 0-5
Join us for award-winning Brooklyn-based performer Suzi Shelton’s fun-filled musical performance! Geared for families with kids ages 0-5 years. No registration or tickets required!
Library Lab: Spy School at Brooklyn Heights Library | Brooklyn Heights
Friday, July 11 | 3:30-4:30pm | Ages 6-12
Do you think you have what it takes to be a spy? Here’s your chance to find out! Join us to learn all about spy secrets like fingerprinting, writing and decoding secret messages, and spy gadgets! But shhhh – it’s a secret! No registration required.
Moana at Crown Heights Library | Crown Heights
Friday, July 11 | 3-5pm | PG
Watch a movie with us at the Crown Heights Library! We will be watching Moana (2016). This movie is rated PG for peril, some scary images and brief thematic elements.
Open Hours at the Environmental Education Center | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Fridays | 3-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Free Admission Days @ Pier 2 Roller Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
The Pier 2 Roller Rink in Brooklyn Bridge Park 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.
Summer at the Library: Parallel Exit at Park Slope Library | Park Slope
Friday, July 11 | 4:00-4:45pm | Registration opens 24 hours in advance
Parallel Exit offers a vaudeville show for the entire family, with juggling, magic, and music. Fun-loving physical comedians present a wide range of old-fashioned family entertainment, and you get to join in the fun! Brought to you by the award-winning troupe Parallel Exit, New York City’s experts in high-velocity.
Free Friends’ Fest at Jackie Robinson Playground | Bed-Stuy
Friday, July 11 | 5-7pm
The Friends of Jackie Robinson Park Playground presents Free Friends’ Fest, a mini-festival with art activities, performances, double dutch, line dancing, fresh produce, and more in the park.
Friday Night Dance at The Plaza at 300 Ashland | Downtown Brooklyn
Friday, July 11 | 5-8pm
Join legendary DJ collective Soul Summit at The Plaza at 300 Ashland for an evening of partying and dancing in celebration of the end of the week. Known for spinning classic house music with deep roots in soul, disco, and funk, Soul Summit always brings the vibes — and it’s all free.
SummerStage: Laila!, Sasha Keable, Talia Goddess & Half Moon | Bed-Stuy
Friday, July 11 | 5-9pm
SummerStage returns this summer with more than 70 free concerts in parks across all five boroughs! Catch these acts at Herbert Von King Park in Bed-Stuy: Laila!, Sasha Keable, and Talia Goddess & Half Moon.
Sounds at Sunset: Mitch Frohman Latin-Jazz Quartet | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Friday, July 11 | 6-9pm
On July 11, join for the Mitch Frohman Latin-Jazz Quartet! Led by Bronx native Mitch Frohman, one of the top saxophonist/flutists in the music scene, and featuring the Curtis Brothers (Zaccai/piano, Luques/Bass along with drummer Joel Mateo). Their latest released From Daddy With Love has gotten worldwide attention, climbing to #16 on the Jazzweek radio airplay charts.
The Hill in New York Live Music Concert: Rita Ora | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Friday, July 11 | 6-10pm | Limited walk-up availability
Wimbledon returns to Brooklyn Bridge Park with “The Hill in New York” from July 11–13, featuring live screenings of the women’s and men’s finals. The event kicks off with a free Rita Ora concert on July 11, followed by daily match broadcasts from Centre Court, British-themed concessions, and more. Admission is free via an online ballot (closed on July 1), with limited walk-up availability.
Fireflies at Naval Cemetery Landscape | Williamsburg
Friday, July 11 | 8-9pm | RSVP here
Explore the Naval Cemetery Landscape’s native meadow while observing and learning about fireflies on this gardener-led walk!
Outdoor Movie at Transmitter Park: Inside Out 2 | Greenpoint
Friday, July 11 | Movie at sunset | PG | Free tickets here
SummerStarz is a series of free, wonderful family-friendly movies at Transmitter Park presented by Town Square, a local nonprofit organization. Come early to snag a good spot on the grass. Enjoy the gorgeous Brooklyn waterfront until the movie starts at sunset.
Stargazing at Floyd Bennett Field | Marine Park
Friday, July 11 | 9-11pm
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public!
Friday Night Fireworks | Coney Island
Fridays | 9:45pm
Join us every Friday night from June 20th until August 29th for a spectacular show that lights up the Coney Island skyline.
SATURDAY
The Hill in New York: Wimbledon Ladies’ Final | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturday, July 12 | 7am-3pm | Limited walk-up availability
Wimbledon returns to Brooklyn Bridge Park with “The Hill in New York” from July 11–13, featuring live screenings of the women’s and men’s finals. Watch broadcasts from Centre Court and enjoy British-themed concessions. Admission is free via an online ballot (closed on July 1), with limited walk-up availability.
City of Water Day | Various Locations
Saturday, July 12 | Program times vary | City-wide including Brooklyn
City of Water Day is a free, family-friendly city-wide day celebrating the region’s waterfronts and raising awareness about climate resilience. Highlights this year will include painting oysters in Red Hook, seining in Brooklyn Bridge Park, free kayaking in Shirley Chisholm State Park, canoeing on Jamaica Bay, birding in Marine Park, and so much more! The map below shows locations of Brooklyn programs, and you can view the the full schedule here.
Green Team | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturday, July 12 | 10am-12pm | Under 16 must be accompanied by an adult | Register here
Green Team volunteers complete tasks such as weeding, planting and mulching. This is a great opportunity to learn about gardening, enjoy nature, and make a tangible difference in the Park with a group of other volunteers. Volunteers of all ages are welcome (under 16’s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian) and no volunteer orientation is required. No gardening experience is necessary; we provide all the instructions and tools needed for a rewarding experience!
Park Pitch In: Lake Appreciation Month | Prospect Park
Saturday, July 12 | 10am-12pm | For teens and adults | Register here
Help care for Prospect Park’s 60-acre lake during our special clean-up series, Park Pitch In: Lake Appreciation. Volunteers will be given grabbers, nets, and bags to help fish out trash from along the shoreline of our Lake. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to remove invasive, unwanted wild growing plants from along the Lake, as well as apply mulch to paths.
Free Children’s Events at Dekalb Market Hall | Downtown Brooklyn
Saturdays | 10am-12pm
Come downstairs for weekly complimentary entertainment for your little ones to enjoy. There will be balloon twisting, magic shows, face painting, circus performers, and more. Located in front of Osteria and Showroom Bakehouse.
Nature Exploration: Lake Appreciation | Prospect Park
Saturday, July 12 | 10am-1pm
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Participants will learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse and observe our underwater invertebrates up close using magnifying glasses. Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake.
Museum on Wheels | Coney Island
Saturday, July 12 | 10am-2pm
Head to Coney Island for City of Water Day, filled with engaging art activities cohosted by the Brooklyn Museum’s new Museum on Wheels! This mobile museum can pull up anywhere in Brooklyn with touchable selections from our collection of teaching objects—plus plenty of fun. All ages are welcome to express your creativity and enjoy art-making, games, and giveaways. Rain date: Sunday, July 13, 10am-2pm.
McCarren Park Block Party | Williamsburg
Saturday, July 12 | 10am-3pm
McCarren Park is going car-free for this summer block party! Join your neighbors for a fun day of activities, more details coming soon!
Free Kayaking at Pier 4 Beach | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturdays | 10am-4pm | Register here in advance!
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 reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
St. Marks Ave. Block Party | Prospect Heights
Saturday, July 12 | 10:30am-7pm | St. Marks Ave. between Carlton Ave. and Vanderbilt Ave.
St. Marks Ave. will be closed to traffic between Carlton and Vanderbilt Avenues on Saturday, July 12 for a block party. There will be music, a hydrant open for water play, and a hang with neighbors. Bring your own chairs, food, and games!
Free Rhythm & Heart Family Dance Class in McCarren Park | Williamsburg
Saturdays | 11:00-11:30am | Through July 12
Join us for a free Rhythm & Heart dance class in McCarren Park—for children AND families of all ages!
Books Are Magic Storytime with Rachel G. Payne: Let’s Rumble! | Brooklyn Heights
Saturday, July 12 | 11:00-11:30am | RSVP here
A lively and humorous depiction of healthy rough-and-tumble play between siblings. Join for this special storytime with author of Let’s Rumble, Rachel G. Payne.
Summer Saturdays at Atlantic Terminal Mall | Downtown Brooklyn
Saturday, July 12 | 11am-1pm | Ages 0-12 | RSVP here
Join Brooklyn Bridge Parents and Atlantic Terminal Mall for Summer Saturdays with free water play, kids activities, giveaways and more fun for ages 0-12. Come out to play, cool off and make friends! (Rain date is Sunday, July 13.) Get a peek of the fun here!
Open House at Sunset Park Library | Sunset Park
Saturday, July 12 | 11am-3pm
Discover Sunset Park Library through fun, hands-on activities for all ages. Pick up your library passport and collect stamps as you explore stations like letter writing, self-portraits, LEGO building, and more!
New York City Poetry Festival | Governors Island
Saturday, July 12 | 11am-6pm
Join for a free weekend of readings, workshops, open mics, installations, performances, writing activities, bookselling, children’s programming, a beer garden, delicious food, and a whole lot of lying around in the grass listening to poetry. 2025 Headliners include Naomi Shihab Nye, Eileen Myles, Sam Sax, Anne Waldman, and Andrew Whiteman.
Saturday Storytime at The Plaza at 300 Ashland | Downtown Brooklyn
Saturday, July 12 | 11:30am-1:30pm
The Brooklyn Public Library | Library for Arts & Culture presents Saturday Storytimes on The Plaza outside of the Library for Arts and Culture. Enjoy arts and cultural themed stories, songs, and rhymes for children birth to 5 years and their caregivers.
Pop-Up Audubon I at the Peninsula | Prospect Park
Saturdays | 12-4pm
Join us by the Peninsula as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Pop-Up Audubon II at Dog Beach | Prospect Park
Saturdays | 12-4pm
Join us by the dog beach as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Vanderbilt Open Streets | Prospect Heights
Saturdays | 12-10pm
Vanderbilt Open Streets offers free programs for the whole family on car-free streets in Prospect Heights! Stay tuned here to see this weekend’s lineup of family-friendly programming.
CityParks PuppetMobile: Pippi Longstocking at South Oxford Park | Fort Greene
Saturday, July 12 | 1-2pm
City Parks Foundation is celebrating the 80th anniversary of the world-renowned children’s story Pippi Longstocking by the legendary Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. To honor this milestone, our traveling marionette theater, the PuppetMobile, will present Pippi, a fresh retelling of the classic Swedish tale with two dozen hand-made marionettes.
Author-Illustrator Melanie Hope Greenberg at Center for Brooklyn History | Brooklyn Heights
Saturday, July 12 | 1:00-2:30pm | Ages 5-10 | Registration required
Join author-illustrator Melanie Hope Greenberg for an enchanting sea-themed adventure to celebrate her book “Mermaids on Parade.” Create and take home your own mermaid crown, Neptune crown, or pirate hat inspired by her book. Melanie will also delight attendees with a special storytime reading. Copies of “Mermaids on Parade” will be available for purchase at the event, and Melanie will personally sign all purchased books.
Open Hours at the Environmental Education Center | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturdays | 1-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Hip Hop Closet’s 3rd Annual Block Party x BNYDC’s Beats & Eats Festival | Brooklyn Navy Yard
Saturday, July 12 | 2pm | All ages | ID required to enter | RSVP here
The 3rd Annual Hip Hop Closet Block Party will be a high-energy day filled with music, fashion, food, and fun for the whole family! The block party will take place at Building 77 in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. The party will feature DJ sets, game activations from the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a carefully curated selection of food vendors, double Dutch teams, breakdancers, and much more. Note: IDs are required for entry and to receive a wristband. Parking in the neighborhood is minimal; guests are encouraged to use Uber or public transportation.
Babywearing Dance Fitness Class at Adams Street Library | DUMBO
Saturday, July 12 | 2-3pm | Babies and toddlers: newborns to 3 years old | Registration opens 7/5 at 2pm
Dance and sway to international rhythms & familiar tunes while you torch calories and cuddle your baby! This is a fun, easy-to-follow, dance fitness class that parents can do with their little ones while snuggled safely into a baby carrier. After dancing, join local parents to talk about parent life because it takes a village to raise our kids and the library wants to provide that space!
Saturdays | 2-10pm
Park Slope Open Streets on 5th Avenue from Union to 4th Street offers family-friendly programming and music every Saturday from May to October (excluding August).
Bargemusic at The Boathouse at Pier 5 | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturdays & Sundays | Performances at 2pm & 4pm
After presenting concerts for nearly 50 years in a floating concert hall at Pier 1, Bargemusic has relocated their chamber music concerts to the Boathouse at Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 5. All concerts are free!
Family Sports Day at Glenwood Playground | East Flatbush
Saturday, July 12 | 3-5pm
Join NYC Parks to develop your sports skills with our coaches. Bring the whole family to this delightful afternoon of various sports games! This event will preview some of the programming we have in store for Fall 2025 at the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center.
Fort Greene Park Jazz Festival | Fort Greene
Saturday, July 12 | 3-7pm
Get ready to listen to soulful sounds at the park! The Fort Greene Park Jazz Festival is a free jazz festival in Fort Greene Park popping up twice a year, in July and September.
Community Science Seining on City of Water Day | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Saturday, July 12 | 3-5pm | Register here
Discover the East River’s amazing biodiversity as our trained staff, volunteers and marine biologists use a seine net to humanely catch-and-release organisms, including fish, jellyfish, crabs, and more! All ages are welcome at this free event! Registering in advance is not required.
Silent Disco Party at Herbert Von King Park | Bed-Stuy
Saturday, July 12 | 4-7pm
This summer, grab a set of wireless headphones and groove to your own beat at this fun dance party! Tune in to the channel of your choice and enjoy amazing music curated to a specific genre. All ages are welcome to this FREE event! I.D. is required to participate, and those 17 and under must have an adult present. Located at the South Terrace on Greene Ave, bet. Marcy Ave. & Tompkins Ave.
SUNDAY
The Hill in New York: Wimbledon Gentlemen’s Final | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Sunday, July 13 | 7am-3pm | Limited walk-up availability
Wimbledon returns to Brooklyn Bridge Park with “The Hill in New York” from July 11–13, featuring live screenings of the women’s and men’s finals. Watch broadcasts from Centre Court and enjoy British-themed concessions. Admission is free via an online ballot (closed July 1), with limited walk-up availability.
Free Admission Days @ Pier 2 Roller Rink | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Park Pitch In: Lake Appreciation Month | Prospect Park
Sunday, July 13 | 10am-12pm | For teens and adults | Register here
Help care for Prospect Park’s 60-acre lake during our special clean-up series, Park Pitch In: Lake Appreciation. Volunteers will be given grabbers, nets, and bags to help fish out trash from along the shoreline of our Lake. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to remove invasive, unwanted wild growing plants from along the Lake, as well as apply mulch to paths.
Nature Exploration: Lake Appreciation | Prospect Park
Sunday, July 13 | 10am-1pm
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Participants will learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse and observe our underwater invertebrates up close using magnifying glasses. Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake.
Free Children’s Events at Dekalb Market Hall | Downtown Brooklyn
Sundays | 11am-2pm
Come downstairs for weekly complimentary entertainment for your little ones to enjoy. There will be balloon twisting, magic shows, face painting, circus performers, and more. Located in front of Osteria and Showroom Bakehouse.
New York City Poetry Festival | Governors Island
Sunday, July 13 | 11am-6pm
Join for a free weekend of readings, workshops, open mics, installations, performances, writing activities, bookselling, children’s programming, a beer garden, delicious food, and a whole lot of lying around in the grass listening to poetry. 2025 Headliners include Naomi Shihab Nye, Eileen Myles, Sam Sax, Anne Waldman, and Andrew Whiteman.
Family Day: Kayaking at Pier 4 Beach | Brooklyn Bridge Park
Sundays | 12:00-2:30pm | Register here in advance!
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 reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Pop-Up Audubon I at the Peninsula | Prospect Park
Sundays | 12-4pm
Join us by the Peninsula as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Pop-Up Audubon II at Dog Beach | Prospect Park
Sundays | 12-4pm
Join us by the dog beach as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Flatbush Avenue Street Fair | Flatbush
Sunday, July 13 | 12-6pm | Parkside Avenue to Courtelyou Road
The Flatbush Avenue Street Fair will take place on Flatbush Avenue from Parkside Ave to Cortelyou Road. Join for live music, rides, family-friendly activities, food, shopping and more!
Second Sundays at Pioneer Works | Red Hook
Sunday, July 13 | 12-6pm | See full schedule here
Join Pioneer Works for Second Sundays, a free monthly open house. There will be kid-friendly scavenger hunts, a comic club, solar gazing in the garden, an eco-exploration walk, live music, open studios, exhibitions, and food. See the full schedule of events here.
Dancing of the Giglio & Boat: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast and Giglio Carnival | Williamsburg
Sunday, July 13 | 1:30-5:30pm | Carnival runs through Sunday, July 20
The Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Giglio Carnival is a beloved Italian tradition in Williamsburg that dates back to 1887. This family-friendly street festival features food vendors, rides, and games, but it’s best known for the Giglio—a 65-foot-tall, 4-ton wooden tower adorned with flowers and statues. In a dramatic display, 120 men lift the towering structure while a live band plays from the top. The festivities run from July 9 to 20; check out the full schedule of events here.
DJ on the Porch at Lefferts Historic House | Prospect Park
Sunday, July 13 | 2-8pm
Join Prospect Park Alliance, DJ Vic Black of the Gangstarr Foundation and founder of Beats Rhythm & Lyrics for a day of great music and community in the yard of Lefferts Historic House.
Soul Summit | Fort Greene Park
Sunday, July 13 | 3-8pm
The Soul Summit Music Festival is an event that takes place in Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn on Sunday afternoons in the summer. Always free and open to the public, the festival showcases artists of various backgrounds, including DJs, bands, dance companies, fashion designers, filmmakers and photographers.
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Updated: July 10, 2025. Main Image: Summer Saturdays at Atlantic Terminal Mall.
