Summer in New York City

Summer in New York City means hot weather, spending time outdoors, and taking advantage of the wonderful summertime activities around the city.

All summer long and all over the city, streets and parks play host to numerous fun and family-oriented events. It's a fabulous time to be in NYC and take advantage of all it has to offer.

Enjoy open air street fairs and festivals. Take advantage of free outdoor movies and concerts that take place all season long.

The city's 4th of July Festivities make celebrating Independence Day in New York a little crowded but tons of fun.

If you are visiting New York City in late August or early September, you will not want to miss the US Open, one of the biggest tennis tournaments of the year that is held annually in Queens.

Weather

Summer in New York City is fairly hot and sticky. The average high temperatures are in the 80s during July and August, the two hottest months of the year. Summer evenings are usually quite warm as well. New York City parks are lush and green this time of year.

Street Fairs and Festivals

When: All summer
Where: All over NYC

Summer in New York City is THE time for street events.

NYC street fairs and festivals take place all summer long in various parts of the city. They are usually free to attend.

New York City street events are usually great places for finding good street food and people watching. The city has a large number of street fairs, cultural festivals, and flea markets to choose from.

4th of July Festivities

The Fourth of July is a highlight of summer in New York City.

The International Hot Dog Eating Contest hosted by Nathan's Famous in Coney Island is always a popular event. This contest has taken place since 1916 and brings together only the fastest of hot dog eaters. The 2009 winner ate 68 hot dogs in 10 minutes!

The contest starts at noon on July 4th, but get there early if you want a good view. It takes place at Nathan's Famous flagship store, at the corner of Surf and Stillwater Avenues in Coney Island. It also airs live on ESPN. 4th of July Fireworks

The 4th of July Fireworks in New York City make for a spectacular show.

Fireworks are set off from six barges in the middle of the Hudson River, illuminating the sky with streaks of red, gold, and purple.

The most challenging part is figuring out the best way to view them. Assuming you do not have a friend with a well-positioned rooftop apartment, your options are to either battle it out with the crowds or pay big money for a boat cruise or rooftop bar.

For tips on where to view, how to get there, and how much it will cost, see Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks in New York City.

If you would like to watch the NYC fireworks show from your air-conditioned living room, they will be broadcast by NBC.

Outdoor Summer Movies

During the summer in New York City, you can watch outdoor movies in some fun and unique places. Catch flicks between the skyscrapers of Manhattan, along the riverfront, or on top of an aircraft carrier.

Watching an outdoor movie is fun, easy, and cheap, although the crowds can be large.

All you have to do is bring a blanket and a picnic dinner (if you wish), arrive early, find a spot, and claim it quickly.

Summer Concerts and Performances

Summer in New York City brings free music and theatre!

Summer concerts and performances are a fun way to spend a summer evening.

Musical events featuring talented artists and outdoor theatre performances are available for free all summer long in various locations around New York City.

These events are popular, so try to arrive early to find a place to sit. Be prepared to sit on the ground and bring a picnic dinner if you'd like.