While summer is coming to a close, that shouldn’t stop people from enjoying what the rest of this season has to give. This August is filled with fun events that visitors can enjoy while it’s still warm in New York City and surrounding states. Listed below are the top 5 local events we think readers will be interested in this August.
1 – Summer Streets Celebration
Where: Across the City
When: Saturdays
Time: Varies by location, typically 9am-5pm or 7am-3pm
The annual Summer Streets celebration is coming back to New York City. Twenty miles of road will be closed on July 25 and the first three Saturdays of August to celebrate NYC’s streets. Pedestrians can discover a variety of free cultural programs, performances, fitness classes, interactive art, giveaways, and more as you experience the city in this whole new way. Additionally, NYC DOT has partnered with New York Road Runners to expand the NYRR Start Line Series, a community-based running and walking event, to Summer Streets. For more information, head over to Summer Streets’ official website.
2 – Joyce Ballet Festival
Where: Joyce Theater
When: August 4–16
Time: 7:30pm Tues-Sat, 2pm Sat/Sun
The Joyce Ballet Festival, curated by Misty Copeland, will be an event that celebrates this art form and brings together a selection of this industry’s global top talent. For two weeks starting August 4, attendees will be able to experience performances and connections, all at the Joyce Theater. For more information and ticket pricing, please head over to the festival’s official website.
3 – Passaic County Fair
Where: Garret Mountain Reservation in Woodland Park, New Jersey
When: August 13-16
Time: 6-11pm on Weekdays, 3-11pm on Weekends
Celebrate the outdoors at the Passaic County Fair. Visitors can experience a three-day event of fun at Garret Mountain Reservation in Woodland Park, New Jersey. The event will have family-friendly events including carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and food, starting August 13.
4 – Jersey City LGBTQ+ Pride Festival
Where: Grove Street Path Plaza and Newark Ave.
When: August 22
Time: 1-9pm
The 26th anniversary of Jersey City LGBTQ+ Pride Festival will welcome visitors and residents with a day of celebration. This year’s theme “Show Your True Colors — Now More Than Ever” calls visitors and the community to be bold in their support and authenticity. Visitors and community members will be able to enjoy live performances, vendors, educational events, and community experiences. The festival begins at Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM.
5 – Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival
Where: Flushing Meadows Corona Park
When: August 8-9
Time: Events happening all weekend
The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, a massive sporting event celebrating the Chinese diaspora, is set to be held from August 8-9. Visitors and community members will be able to watch over 150 racing teams at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Additionally, audiences will be able to watch traditional performances as well as enjoy a variety of international food.
