What’s Happening in NYC in August
The blistering summer continues as August arrives in New York City. But for travelers who can brave the sticky heat, the rewards are substantial. After all, August is filled with a number of exciting events and activities for travelers who don’t mind breaking a bit of a sweat to get there. Whether you feel like donning some classic 1920s-era duds or a baseball cap, these are five of the best ways to spend an August trip to New York City.
NYC Events in August 2019
August 03, 10, and 17: Summer Streets
For three Saturdays in August, seven miles of Manhattan streets are open only to pedestrians and cyclists. During the Summer Streets events, you can walk, play, bike, jog or take part in any number of activities (think: yoga classes, live musical performances, arts and crafts projects). There will even be an attempt to break a Guinness World Record for simultaneous handstands. To participate, head to Manhattan during the first three Saturdays in August between 7am and 1pm to enjoy a completely vehicle-free stretch of thoroughfare that runs from the Brooklyn Bridge all the way north to Central Park.
August 04: Secret Summer
Skip the bar and sip instead at Secret Summer, a farm-to-table-inspired cocktail festival taking place in Long Island City on August 4. Drinks are the focus of this late-summer fete, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2019. Enjoy cocktails from iconic spirit brands such as Aperol, Westward Whiskey and notable Japanese purveyors including Haku vodka, Suntory whisky and Roky gin. (Nonalcoholic beverage brands in attendance include Harmless Harvest coconut water, KeVita sparkling probiotic beverages and Sail Away Coffee cold brew.) A general ticket costs $125, and includes unlimited drinks and access to all the musical performances (High & Mighty Brass Band; DJ Dastan; DJ David Hohme; Mira Fahrenheit).. Photo courtesy of @secretsummernyc
Through August 16: NYC Restaurant Week
Join New Yorkers around the city’s hottest tables during the summer iteration of New York Restaurant Week, which began in July and runs until August 16. This is your chance to try some of the city’s most sought-after (and expensive) restaurants without maxing out your credit card. Think: $26 two-course lunches and $42 three-course dinners at renowned restaurants like Nougatine at Jean Georges, Red Rooster and Ai Fiori. This year, Mastercard holders can save an additional $10 when spending $65 or more during Restaurant Week. Photo courtesy of @nycrestaurantweek.
August 19 – 25: US Open Fan Week
See the world’s finest tennis players prepare to compete at this year’s US Open during Fan Week, which begins on Monday, August 19. Admission is free, and you’ll get the chance to watch world class athletes compete during the US Open Qualifying Tournament. There will also be open practices with the most elite players in the sport, evening concerts, matches between tennis legends such as Andy Roddick, Lindsay Davenport and Martina Navratilova and more. Best of all, every event and match is free and open to the public.
August 25, 26: Jazz Age Lawn Party
On August 24 and 25, Governors Island will be transported back in time to the prohibition era for the annual Jazz Age Lawn Party. Don your favorite 1920s duds and prepare for a day filled with classic motorcars, croquet matches and musical performances by The Dreamland Follies and pianist Peter Mintun, among others. Revelers can imbibe on Aperol Spritzes and glasses of French rose while picnicking on the law, or perfecting their Peabody dance moves. This year, there will even be “old-time” magic show and vintage vendors. General admission starts at $45.
August 27 – September 9: U.S. Open
See the world’s finest tennis players compete at the U.S. Open, which begins this year on August 27. Tickets give you the opportunity to watch world class athletes like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, along with up-and-comers.
Discover More of New York City
Looking to spend the dog days of Summer in Manhattan? Be sure to explore Refinery Times for more tips on what to do in our fabulous city.
