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What to Do in New York City in August 2023

By Emmie MurphyJul 21 2023
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When we say New York is the city that never sleeps, we mean never — and there is plenty to do throughout the five boroughs as summer winds down. While the average daily temperature might climb into the 80s (or even 90s), it’s nothing some sunscreen and shade can’t help.

Make your way to Flushing, catch a ferry to Governors Island, or wander up to Harlem to experience the best of what NYC has to offer in August. If you’re looking for things to do in Midtown, take a look at the full list of Rockefeller Center events and programming here. We suggest donning a pair of skates at Flipper’s, exploring the New Frontiers exhibition at Top of the Rock, or cooling off with a spritz or something sweet.


Keep reading for the best things to do in New York City in August — and for the latest announcements and happenings at Rockefeller Center, sign up for The Center Newsletter.

Photo by Max Flatlow
Photo by Max Flatlow

1. NYC Restaurant Week

Through August 20

In August, foodies can get a seat (and a cheaper bill) at a Michelin-starred restaurant. During Restaurant Week, eateries of all stripes throw their doors open, and multi-course menus are fixed at $30, $45, or $60 a head. Hundreds of places are participating this year, and diners can enjoy lunch, dinner, or both. Browse participants and reserve your table here.

2. Harlem Week

August 9-20

Harlem Week is an annual festival that celebrates one of New York’s most vibrant neighborhoods. What started as a single-day event nearly 50 years ago is now a full 10 days (despite the name) of in-person and virtual programming that celebrates the history, food, culture, art, and spirit of the uptown neighborhood. Attendees can enjoy an impressive range of activities from jazz performances and dance parties to running races and even a career fair. Local organizations like The Apollo Theater also get involved, and Uptown Night Market will host a food experience that includes a curated roster of local Harlem vendors, food, and drink. For the full line-up of events, watch this space.

Photo by Darren Carroll
Photo by Darren Carroll

3. US Open Tennis

Starting August 29

Beginning August 28, the fourth and final Grand Slam tournament of the year returns to Flushing Meadows in Queens. Each summer, the infamous US Open serves up world-class tennis at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home to Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest tennis venue in the world. Tennis fanatics and casual spectators alike will be delighted by the level of play, rowdy night matches, and signature Honey Deuce cocktails. The play continues rain or shine (thanks to the retractable roof over Arthur Ashe Stadium), so grab a seat on the 7 train and make your way to one of the greatest sporting events of the year.

4. Jazz Age Lawn Party

August 12 and 13

The Roaring Twenties return for the 18th year running at Governors Island’s beloved Jazz Age Lawn Party. On August 12 and 13, guests can be transported back to the days of Prohibition, with themed events like Charleston dance lessons, a pie-baking contest, a children’s parade, and more. But we couldn’t embrace the Jazz Age without a little music, of course. Performances will happen across both days, with live sets from Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra, one of the world’s premiere Jazz Age dance orchestras, and The Dreamland Follies, a 10-lady Art Deco dance spectacle. Dust off your bowler hat, and grab your tickets today.

Photo by Phil Mahabeer; courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR
Photo by Phil Mahabeer; courtesy of Michelle Tabnick PR

5. Battery Dance Festival

August 12-18

Beginning August 12, New York City’s longest-running free public dance festival returns to Battery Park City. Drawing over 12,000 in-person attendees and 35,000 virtual viewers year after year, the festival is a testament to the uniting power of dance. This year’s lineup includes local NYC companies as well as touring groups from Norway, the Netherlands, India, and more. Pioneers in modern dance such as Isadora Duncan will have historic works performed and up-and-coming artists — including Children’s Program Participants from The Bowery Mission and student-artists from Queensborough Community College — will also have a chance to take the stage. Register today and let yourself be moved!

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