Things To Do In NYC July 11-13
What’s Happening in NYC This Weekend (July 11–13, 2025)
Summer weekends in NYC mean endless possibilities—from skyline views to festivals, concerts, markets, and unforgettable city adventures.
New York City is brimming with summer energy and countless things to do in NYC this weekend. From vibrant cultural festivals and outdoor adventures to big-name concerts and foodie havens, there’s something for everyone across the five boroughs. Whether you’re in the mood to celebrate French culture on Bastille Day, groove to live music in the park, or snack your way through a night market, we’ve got you covered. Read on for the best events happening Friday through Sunday (July 11–13, 2025) – and get ready to plan an unforgettable summer weekend in the Big Apple!
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Alright, now let’s jump into this weekend’s lineup of events and happenings across NYC!
🎡 Festivals, Fairs & Summer Fun
Bastille Day on Madison Avenue (Sunday) –
Vive la France in NYC! The city’s biggest Bastille Day celebration – and the largest outside of France – takes over the Upper East Side this Sunday, July 13. From 12–5 PM, Madison Avenue from East 59th to 63rd Streets transforms into a mini-Parisian festival, free for all . This year’s bash has a Côte d’Azur summer theme, so expect a chic “French Riviera” vibe. Stroll over 50+ booths of French food, wine, and artisan goodies – nibble on crêpes, macarons, cheese, and more. There’s much more than food: you’ll find a vintage Citroën car show, live music and dance performances, kids’ activities (crafts, face-painting), and even a pétanque (French bocce) court and mini soccer games. New Yorkers can join fun workshops on a grassy pop-up “lawn” – think outdoor art activities, salsa and jazz dance classes, and French-themed games throughout the day . Don’t miss the quirky Inside Out photobooth truck by artist JR, where you can snap a portrait and have it added to a giant street collage. And if you’re feeling lucky, enter the on-site prize drawing for goodies like trips to France and luxury gifts. Bastille Day on Madison Ave is truly a summer highlight – you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked to a Parisian street fair. (Insider tip: arrive early to sample the tastiest treats before lines get long, and swing by the “French Garden” area between 60th–61st Streets for upscale French brands and freebies.) Liberté, égalité, festivité! 🇫🇷🎉
City of Water Day (Saturday)
Make a splash this Saturday, July 12, at City of Water Day, a citywide festival celebrating NYC’s waterfront and maritime culture. Now in its 18th year, this free, family-friendly extravaganza features dozens of events on and near the water across all five boroughs . It’s basically water-themed fun everywhere: you can kayak for free on the Hudson or East River, join harbor boat tours, go fishing or seining with educators, and learn about marine wildlife and climate resiliency. In past years, hubs have included Governors Island (with ferry rides and kids’ activities), Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bushwick Inlet, and Staten Island’s Waterfront – expect similar hotspots this year. For 2025, the theme is “unity in the face of climate change,” highlighting how communities can protect our harbor . Some notable happenings: a marine science festival at Battery Park City (11 AM–2 PM at Rockefeller Park ) with interactive demos; free kayaking sessions at Brooklyn’s Red Hook and Long Island City waterfronts; a Cardboard Kayak Race on Governors Island; and volunteer shoreline clean-ups (like one on the Lower East Side at East River Park ). Check the City of Water Day online map for event locations near you – there’s something in every borough. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, learn about our city’s 520 miles of coastline, and maybe even get out on a boat. Pro tip: pack sunscreen and a change of clothes if you plan on water activities (you might get a little wet), and consider taking the ferry to hop between waterfront event sites. Dive in and enjoy NYC’s harbor like never before!
Celebrate City of Water Day on Saturday with free kayaking, boat tours, and waterfront fun all across NYC’s boroughs!
Giglio Feast in Williamsburg (All Weekend) –
Experience one of NYC’s most storied Italian-American traditions at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast in Williamsburg, Brooklyn – running now through July 20. This huge street feast (138 years and counting!) brings carnival fun, food, and faith to Havemeyer Street, with rides, games, live music, and amazing Italian eats nightly . The biggest spectacle is “Giglio Sunday,” July 13, from about 1:30–5:30 PM. That’s when over 100 local men gather to hoist a 70-foot-tall, flower-laden Giglio tower (and a platform holding a band!) on their shoulders and parade it through the streets . Yes, you read that right – a five-story tower carried by hand, swaying to music! This incredible display of strength, teamwork, and devotion happens only once a year and draws huge crowds. It’s a sight to behold (and photograph!), complete with the joyful sounds of a brass band perched atop the tower. Beyond the Giglio, the feast offers classic Italian street foods – think sausage and peppers, zeppole, cannoli – plus Italian folk bands, merchandise stalls, and kiddie rides. Festivities kick off around 6 PM on Friday and Saturday, then all day Sunday for Giglio. You can just show up; no tickets needed (though bring cash for food and ride tickets). The atmosphere is super friendly and neighborhood-centric – this is a tradition generations of Williamsburg families have kept alive. If you want to see authentic NYC culture beyond Manhattan, the Giglio Feast is a must-visit. (Travel tip: Take the L train to Lorimer St or G to Metropolitan Ave and walk a few blocks. Sunday will be especially crowded for the lift, so get there by early afternoon for a decent view. And don’t forget to try the fresh mozzarella or a braciole sandwich from a local vendor – delizioso!)
Bonus – Other Weekend Highlights:
Bronx River Arts Festival – On Saturday afternoon, the Bronx River Alliance is hosting a free arts & music fest at Starlight Park (2 PM–6 PM) with performances and canoe rides on the Bronx River. Harlem Summer Stage – Head uptown to Marcus Garvey Park on Sunday for a free Charlie Parker Jazz Festival Preview (4 PM) featuring live jazz in the amphitheater. And while not a “festival,” note that NYC Summer Restaurant Week is just around the corner (July 22–Aug 18). Restaurants will soon announce their special prix-fixe menus (two-course lunches and three-course dinners for $30, $45, or $60 ). It’s a good time to start planning those reservations if you’re a foodie!
🎸 Concerts, Shows & Performances
The Lumineers at Citi Field (Friday) –
Summer stadium concert alert! On Friday, July 11, folk-rock superstars The Lumineers bring their “Automatic World Tour” to Citi Field in Queens for one epic night . Gates open at 5:30 PM and the music kicks off at 6:30 PM – with The Lumineers joined by special guests Young the Giant and Hippo Campus . Expect an anthemic, sing-along evening under the open sky: The Lumineers are known for hits like “Ho Hey” and “Ophelia” that will have 40,000 fans belting along. This show is part of a mega stadium tour celebrating their new album Automatic, so you can look forward to fresh songs alongside the classics. If you snagged tickets (they’re likely sold out by now, but resale is possible), plan your trip to Flushing: take the 7 train to Mets-Willets Point and budget time for security lines. Pro tip: Citi Field’s parking lots open at 4:30 PM – expect traffic, so public transit may be easier. Once inside, grab a craft beer or Shake Shack burger on the concourse and get ready to sway with your phone flashlight out for the heartfelt ballads. The weather should be warm, and this “Ho Hey” hootenanny under the stars promises to be a highlight of the summer concert season.
Catch epic live shows in NYC this weekend—from The Lumineers’ stadium concert at Citi Field to free music festivals in Central Park.
Free French Concert in Central Park (Sunday) –
The French celebration continues Sunday evening with a free Bastille Day music festival at Central Park’s Rumsey Playfield. Hosted by the French Consulate and SummerStage, this concert runs from about 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM on July 13 . The lineup features a mix of renowned French and Francophone artists: superstar DJ Bob Sinclar will bring the dance beats, hip-hop duo Bigflo & Oli, chanteur Patrick Bruel, and electro-pop group ESTL are all set to perform . It’s a totally free, all-ages show – no tickets or registration required . Last year this drew 12,000+ people, so get there early to snag a good spot on the lawn. You can bring a blanket and picnic (yes, wine and cheese would be on-theme 🥖🧀), and enjoy a summer evening of French music under the NYC skyline. The atmosphere will be festive – expect lots of tricolor flags, singing along (in French and English), and maybe even some French expats dancing the cancan! Even if you don’t speak French, music is universal – so come soak up the joie de vivre. Rumsey Playfield is near East 72nd St inside the park. Vive la musique! – what a cool way to cap off the weekend, and it’s over by 10 PM so you can still catch the subway home.
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! and SummerStage –
NYC’s summer outdoor concert series are in full swing. In Brooklyn, the BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival continues at the Prospect Park Bandshell. This Saturday, July 12, they’re actually hosting a ticketed benefit concert with indie-pop artist Still Woozy (the “Loveseat Tour”) at 6:30 PM – if you’re a fan, tickets might still be available for purchase. Even if not attending, note that free shows will resume later in July. Meanwhile, City Parks’ SummerStage has free concerts across the city: although Central Park is occupied by Bastille Day on Sunday, you can look ahead to upcoming shows like hip-hop legends The Roots in Queens on July 20 and genre-blending vocalist Big Freedia on July 10 (if you caught her in Brooklyn on Thursday). Keep an eye on the SummerStage calendar for next week – there’s usually something happening almost every night in one of the boroughs, from Latin jazz in the Bronx to Afrobeat in Coney Island. All shows are first-come, first-served, so arrive early with water, sunscreen, and dancing shoes!
Broadway & Off-Broadway Picks –
Need some indoor (or air-conditioned) entertainment? Broadway is buzzing this summer. A hot ticket right now is “Stranger Things: The First Shadow” at the Marquis Theatre – a brand new play that’s a prequel to the hit Netflix series. It just opened to great buzz, bringing 1959 Hawkins to life on stage with cinematic special effects and a story that has fans hooked. If you love the show, this is a chance to dive deeper into the Upside Down universe (and yes, it’s officially produced by the Duffer Brothers, so it’s top-notch). There are performances all weekend (including matinees) and tickets start around $80 – worth it for the epic production value and nostalgia. Also on Broadway, the usual blockbusters (Hamilton, Wicked, Lion King, etc.) are all running; holiday weeks sometimes mean slightly different schedules, so double-check times. Off-Broadway, a cool recommendation is “Maybe Happy Ending” at the Belasco – a new musical about two robots falling in love (heartwarming and quirky). Or if you missed it earlier, “Heathers: The Musical” (the cult-favorite based on the ‘80s film) continues its run Off-Broadway through September, serving up dark comedy and killer vocals – a fun night out for theatre geeks. Comedy fans can hit up clubs like the Comedy Cellar or UCB for late-night laughs; improv and stand-up shows run every weekend night. And for something totally different: check out Shakespeare in the Parking Lot – yes, free Shakespeare performed in an actual parking lot on the Lower East Side! This gritty NYC tradition returns next weekend (July 17 onward) with A Midsummer Night’s Dream under the streetlights. Only in New York, right?
Candlelight Concerts & Unique Vibes
If you’re looking for a more intimate performance, NYC’s enchanting Candlelight Concerts series continues this weekend at various venues. Picture this: a historic church or a stylish venue bathed in the glow of hundreds of (faux) candles, while a string quartet plays tributes to popular artists. There are often multiple themes to choose from – one night might be a Taylor Swift or Queen tribute on strings, another might be classical Beethoven by candlelight, or even an Anime soundtracks evening for the super-fans. These concerts are ticketed (usually $30-$50) and tend to sell out, but they’re truly magical if you can snag a spot. Venues range from Williamsburg’s picturesque The Opera Haus to Midtown’s elegant Church of the Heavenly Rest. It’s a great option for date night or just a peaceful escape from the city noise. And speaking of unique vibes: dance music lovers, take note that Boiler Room is hosting a massive multi-night underground party in Brooklyn this weekend (Fri & Sat nights) – a “BR Weekender” with cutting-edge DJs in a secret warehouse location . Tickets are required, and it’s for those who love a late-night rave scene (going till 1 AM or later). Wherever your tastes lie – rock, jazz, theater, or club beats – NYC’s got a performance for you this weekend!
🥕 Foodie Alerts: Markets, Eats & Drinks
Smorgasburg Food Market –
Bring your appetite because Smorgasburg is in session all weekend long! This iconic open-air food market (now in its 15th season) sets up in different locations each day: Friday at the WTC Oculus Plaza (Manhattan), Saturday in Williamsburg’s Marsha P. Johnson Park, and Sunday in Prospect Park (Brooklyn) . Entry is free – you just pay for whatever mouthwatering dishes you sample. And oh boy, there are dozens of vendors (70+ at Williamsburg alone) offering global cuisine and wild foodie creations. If you’ve never been, imagine a paradise of pop-up stands: Venezuelan arepas, Filipino BBQ skewers, Japanese ramen burgers, fresh lobster rolls, truffle grilled cheese, vegan ice cream… the list goes on. This year has some buzzworthy new vendors, like a Jamaican-Korean fusion truck and a stand selling “crème brûlée doughnuts” that have been lighting up Instagram. Prices per item range ~$5-$15, so you can graze and try a bit of everything. Pro tip: go with friends and share dishes for maximum tasting. Saturdays in Williamsburg (11 AM–6 PM) are the busiest – expect big crowds by 1 PM. Going on Friday at the World Trade Center location is a great option for shorter lines (plus a cool downtown vibe among the skyscrapers). On Sunday in Prospect Park, the market by Breeze Hill lets you grab your bites then picnic on the grass – a perfect lazy Sunday plan. Bring cash just in case (though most vendors take card), and definitely arrive hungry. Smorgasburg is the spot to discover NYC’s hottest food trends in one place.
Queens Night Market (Saturday Night) –
Sample global flavors under the stars at the Queens Night Market on Saturday night—NYC’s ultimate summer food adventure.
Want to continue the food adventure into the evening? Head to Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens on Saturday for the legendary Queens Night Market. From 4 PM until midnight (every summer Saturday), this night market serves up an international feast with 100+ independent vendors and very wallet-friendly prices (most food items are capped at $6 or less) . It’s an only-in-Queens experience: you’ll find cuisine from all over the globe reflecting NYC’s diversity – think Colombian arepas, Filipino sisig, West African suya skewers, Thai rolled ice cream, Polish pierogi, Jamaican patties, and beyond. The vibe is electric and family-friendly: live music or DJs keep things festive, local artisans sell crafts, and thousands of people roam happily, sampling food under the stars. If you didn’t get your fill at Smorgasburg, the Queens Night Market is a must. (Even if you did stuff yourself, somehow you’ll find room for more – trust us.) Some pro tips: Admission is free, but it can get crowded – the peak is 7-9 PM, so come right at opening for first crack at popular stalls or later in the evening for a second wind. Parking is available at the New York Hall of Science, but public transit might be easier (7 train to 111th Street and a short walk). Definitely bring cash, as many vendors prefer it (though some take cards/Venmo). And be adventurous! This market is about trying new things – that $5 mystery snack could become your new favorite dessert. The Queens Night Market’s mission is all about community and celebrating cultures, and after 10 seasons it’s a beloved NYC summer tradition . You’ll leave with a full belly, maybe some new friends after chatting in line, and a deeper appreciation for our city’s melting pot of flavors.
Farmers’ Markets & Fresh Finds
– Summer bounty is here, and NYC’s farmers’ markets are bursting with color and flavor. Start your morning at the Union Square Greenmarket (Friday and Saturday, 8 AM–6 PM) to peruse stands from over 100 regional farmers and artisans. In mid-July you’ll find peak produce: juicy peaches and plums, sweet corn, heirloom tomatoes of every hue, blueberries, fresh herbs, and so much more. Grab a hot apple cider donut or a pastry as you browse locally made jams, cheeses, maple syrup, pickles, and breads. (Pro tip: many stands offer samples – don’t be shy to taste that organic cheddar or slice of ripe tomato!) Uptown, the 79th Street Greenmarket by the Museum of Natural History (Sunday 9 AM–5 PM) is a gem – smaller but beloved for its fresh seafood, grass-fed meats, and the amazing fruit pies from Meredith’s Bakery (get the strawberry-rhubarb if available!). In Brooklyn, the Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket (Saturday 8 AM–3 PM, at Prospect Park’s entrance) is a wonderful stop before or after a park day – pick up artisanal bacon, farmstead goat cheese, or gorgeous sunflowers grown in the Hudson Valley. Over in Jackson Heights, Queens (Sunday 8 AM–3 PM), you’ll hit one of the city’s most diverse markets – alongside standard veggies, you might find exotic herbs and greens favored in South Asian and Latin cuisines, reflecting the neighborhood. Visiting a Greenmarket is a quintessential NYC Saturday morning activity – join the locals, meet the farmers, and stock up on picnic supplies or ingredients for a home-cooked feast. And remember to bring your tote bag and maybe a cooler pack for those farm-fresh cheeses or meats. Supporting local farms never tasted so good!
Summer Sips: Breweries & Rooftops –
After days filled with events, you might be ready to kick back with a cold drink. Thankfully NYC’s bar scene has you covered. If you’re a craft beer fan, consider spending an afternoon at one of our local brewery taprooms: Other Half Brewing in Red Hook, Brooklyn offers a dizzying array of hazy IPAs beloved by beer geeks; Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg is a classic with weekend tours and a large tasting room (often with food trucks outside); or hit Threes Brewing in Gowanus, which has a chill backyard garden perfect for summer pints. In Queens, SingleCut Beersmiths (Astoria) serves up great lagers and live music on weekends. Many breweries host food pop-ups – e.g., Finback in Queens often has BBQ vendors – so you can make it a laid-back dinner stop too. Prefer cocktails with a view? Rooftop bars are the place to be on a warm July night. Try 230 Fifth in Manhattan for a iconic Empire State Building view (get there early to avoid lines), or Westlight in Williamsburg for a panoramic skyline vista and creative cocktails. For a swanky downtown vibe, The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel or Make Believe on the Lower East Side draw a trendy crowd (dress to impress). If a secret speakeasy is more your style, seek out Attaboy on the Lower East Side (no menu, bespoke drinks – arrive right when they open to snag a spot) or Please Don’t Tell (PDT) in the East Village (enter through a phone booth in a hot dog shop – yes, really). Finally, a PSA for the foodies: as mentioned, Summer Restaurant Week is about to kick off – mark your calendar for July 22 when hundreds of NYC restaurants will offer special prix-fixe deals . Many high-end spots participate, so this weekend is a good time to browse the lists and book your tables in advance. In the meantime, if you need that Sunday brunch recovery, hit up a classic: maybe Timeless Diner in Williamsburg for comfort food, or Tom’s Restaurant in Prospect Heights (an old-school spot) for eggs and a milkshake. Cheers to eating and drinking well this weekend!
Enjoy your NYC weekend to the fullest, and don’t forget to make it your own. Whether you’re dancing under fireworks, feasting on international bites, or following a custom Karissa Eats itinerary to hidden gems, the city is your playground. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and have a blast exploring all the things to do in NYC this weekend. 🌞🗽
Last Updated: July 2, 2025
