Fourth of July week is here, and there’s plenty of summer fun for families happening all across Brooklyn! Celebrate with events like the Brooklyn Army Terminal festivities in Sunset Park, Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and fireworks in Coney Island, and the amazing Macy’s fireworks display over the East River. Plus, enjoy a full lineup of local activities this week, from nature programs in city parks to storytimes, music classes, and outdoor concerts including the kickoff of Cobble Hill Music in the Park.
Monday, June 30 | 10:15-11:00am | Registration opens 72 hours in advance
Get ready to sing, dance, jump, shake, laugh, march, run, freeze, tap, smile, and have the most fun ever en español with Bilingual Birdies! Families go on a joyful adventure with songs, dance, and puppetry, to learn new words in Spanish while they’re having a blast in this 45-minute live music interactive experience.
Monday, June 30 | 10:45-11:20am
Moozika! is singer-songwriter Jesse Goldman’s award-winning bilingual family music band and educational program based in Brooklyn.
Monday, June 30 | 3:30-4:30pm | Ages 5-12
Join us for an exciting talk with children’s author and illustrator Torben Kuhlmann! He’ll tell us a bit about his writing and illustrating process and then give us a drawing demonstration. This will be a fun program for kids 5-12!
Mondays | 3:30-6:00pm
The Pier 2 Roller Rink in Brooklyn Bridge Park offers free admission hours on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays. Roller skate with amazing views of the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan! Skate rental is $8 per person.
Monday, June 30 | 4-5pm
Color everywhere! Join us for a painting adventure with Bob Ross. We will follow along instructions and create our own masterpieces. All materials will be provided.
Monday, June 30 | 4-5pm | Ages 9-17 | Registration required
Learn to use advanced LEGO robotics sets while exploring STEM concepts and making new friends. Registration required!
Tuesdays | 10am
Hopalong Andrew’s weekly shows at Whole Foods are FREE! Make sure to double check in his Instagram the morning of to make sure class has not been cancelled for any reason.
Tuesdays | 11:00-11:30am
Join us each Tuesday at 11am and select Saturdays at 10am for a special storytime – perfect for babies and toddlers. Private Picassos Founder Valeen Bhat will read a favorite kid’s book in our cozy reading nook. Hang out after for coloring, toys and exploring all of the books we have at our Studio.
Tuesday, July 1 | 11:00-11:30am | Ages 0-5
Come along with the JCC Brooklyn North Williamsburg for summer full of FREE fun activities for the kids! Join us for Music with Yonatan at 11am at Martha’s Bakery.
Tuesday, July 1 | 4-5pm | Ages 9-13
Join us for Tween Tuesdays in the Brooklyn Heights Game Room. Today we will be playing all kinds of board and card games! Come hang out, listen to music, make friends, and play your favorites! Snacks will be provided.
Tuesday, July 1 | 4:30-5:15pm | Ages 5+
Let’s see what we can grow in Brooklyn! Plant seeds and watch them grow. Read stories, sing, craft, and tend our garden!
Tuesdays | 4:30-6:00pm
Bring your baby to Fontainhas for some cozy chai and hangs with other new moms. Hosted every week by the new mom pop-up POST.
Tuesdays in June & July | 5-7pm | Ages 4-17 | Register here
Kids ages 4-17 can join Brooklyn Bridge Park for free basketball clinics led by KING Hoops! Learn basketball basics as head coaches lead participants through drills and games. The first hour (5-6pm) will be for beginner players who are brand new to the sport. The second hour (6-7pm) will be for advanced beginners to intermediate players. Advanced registration and waivers are required, although walk-up registrations can be accommodated as space allows. Registration is by-the-week.
RESCHEDULED for Tuesday, July 29 | 6-7pm
Note: This program was originally scheduled for Tuesday, July 1, but has been rescheduled for Tuesday, July 29 due to rain. We’re thrilled to once again bring free, live music to Cobble Hill Park, a summer tradition for neighbors of all ages. Concerts will be held in Cobble Hill Park from 6 pm to 7 pm. Rain date information will be posted here, so be sure to come back and check before attending.
Tuesday, July 1 | 6:30pm
Join us for the first ever Brooklyn-centric spelling bee, hosted by your resident experts at the Center for Brooklyn History. From historic names to iconic avenues, we are finding the most interesting and challenging letter combinations to thrill and delight as you compete for prizes and bragging rights! Is it McDonough Street or MacDonough Street? Halsay or Halsey? Bruekelyn or Breukelen?! Laura Michael, CBH’s fun-fact guru, leads the festivities. Compete as teams or individuals. Winners leave with CBH prizes!
Wednesday, July 2 | 10:30-11:00am
Join us for Storytime in the Park on Wednesdays! We will be singing songs, learning rhymes, and reading books together. This Storytime is for toddlers who are walking. When held outdoors, this is NOT a ticketed event, but Storytime will be moved indoors if it is raining or above 90°F. If held indoors, tickets are required and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis starting at 10:00am. Child and Caregiver must be present to receive a ticket.
Wednesday, July 2 | 11am-12pm
Join us for an exciting Book Giveaway event at the Red Hook Interim Library, in partnership with Brooklyn Book Bodega. Books are available while supplies last!
Wednesday, July 2 | 11am-1pm | For teens | Register here
Help remove invasive plants, maintain woodland trails and other forest restoration work to help Prospect Park thrive. All tools are provided + no experience is necessary. Earn service hours while helping to maintain the park!
Wednesdays | 3-6pm | Reserve tickets here; free tickets are made available at 3pm the Monday before
Take advantage of free admission hours at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. Note that advance timed tickets are required; the Wednesday Afternoon Ticket Store will open on Monday at 3:00 pm for that Wednesday’s reservations. Do not come to the aquarium without a reserved ticket! There’s a maximum of 4 tickets per order.
Wednesday, July 2 | 3:30-5:00pm | Register here
Battle it out for glory and fantastic prizes! Come to each day and win for a chance at a grand prize! Light refreshments will be provided. Tournament dates: July 2, July 9, July 16.
Wednesday, July 2 | 4-5pm
Come hang out, play board games, and decorate our mural for the teen area!
Wednesday, July 2 | 4:00-5:30pm | For teens
Teens 13+, stop by Eco Lab 3 to make slime! We’ll focus on the senses, think about different textures, and discuss Disability Pride Month.
Wednesdays | 5-7pm | Register here in advance!
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s free kayaking program runs on Wednesday and Thursday evenings (5-7pm), Saturdays (10am-4pm) with Family Days on Sundays (12-2:30pm) through August. All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers — life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Advance registration is required; make a reservation here. Do not walk-up without a reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Wednesday, July 2 | 8-9pm
It’s summertime, which means our firefly friends are lighting up the night once again!
Thursdays | 10-11am | Ages 5 and under | RSVP here
This nature program for ages 5 and under in Marsha P. Johnson State Park is FREE! Supplies are provided on a first come, first serve basis.
Thursdays | 10am-12pm | RSVP here
Calling all parents and caregivers with children! Join a Prospect Park Alliance Naturalist at the Prospect Park Audubon Center for a leisurely stroll along Prospect Park’s waterways. Please note that this walk leaves promptly at 10 am from the Prospect Park Audubon Center.
Thursday, July 3 | 10am-1pm | For teens | RSVP here
Join Prospect Park Alliance for a special summer work session at our Summer Spruce Up volunteer series. Volunteers will assist in tasks such as invasive plant removal, trail maintenance, litter pick up, and other landscaping needs. The group meets at a different location every week. If you RSVP, you will receive a reminder email with the meeting location.
Thursdays | 11am
Sing, read, and play with librarians from Walt Whitman Library in Fort Greene Park! For children of all ages and their caregivers. Located at the bottom of the Monument stairs near Myrtle Playground. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held at Walt Whitman Pop-up Library, 240 Nassau Street, 2nd Floor.
Thursday, July 3 | 12-4pm
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Participants will learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse and observe our underwater invertebrates up close using magnifying glasses. Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake.
Thursday, July 3 | 2-5pm | RSVP here
Explore some of our most-loved exhibits, including toddler-favorite Totally Tots, the miniature shops of World Brooklyn, our NEST kids’ climber, and more. Then check out ColorLab, our family art studio located on the 2nd floor of the Museum, where artists of all ages can explore, make, and celebrate art. Plus, Say hello to BCM’s live animals at Animal Encounters, led by our expert animal maintainers! Get a personal introduction to some of BCM’s most fascinating creatures, including turtles, lizards, snakes, and more. This program repeats twice, first from 3:00-3:20 pm and again from 3:45-4:05 pm.
Thursdays | 3-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Thursday, July 3 | 3:30-5:00pm | Ages 5+
This week’s movie: “High School Musical 2” (2007), rated G. Run time: 1 hour and 51 minutes. No registration required; attendance limited by room capacity.
Thursday, July 3 | 4-8pm
Celebrate the nation’s birthday with family-friendly entertainment, patriotic performances, and a joyful neighborhood gathering.
Thursdays | 5-7pm | Register here in advance!
All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers — life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Advance registration is required; make a reservation here. Do not walk-up without a reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Thursdays, 6-9pm | Through July 17
Join Nieves Latin Dance Studio outside Atlantic Terminal on Thursday nights for a live DJ spinning salsa, bachata & Latin beats and free dance lessons led by professional instructors from Nieves.
Thursday, July 3 | 7pm | PG
Join us in the garden for cozy summer evenings, classic films, and your favorite treats under the stars. Thursdays at 7 pm. Enjoy drinks, desserts, and a touch of magic! On July 3, join for Moonstruck, rated PG.
Fridays | 9:30-10:30am
Every Friday, City League Coffee invites parents, grandparents, siblings, caregivers and their little ones to join us for a fun-filled exciting hour. Each week is designed to feature a different activity that fosters a sense of togetherness between neighbors.
Friday, July 4 | 11am-1pm
The 100+ year tradition continues this Fourth of July, where competitive hot dog eaters go head to head at the Nathan’s Famous flagship at corner of Surf and Stillwell Avenues from 11am to 1pm. Stick around into the evening for Coney Island’s Independence Day fireworks show, starting at 9:45pm.
Friday, July 4 | 12-5pm
Join Prospect Park Alliance for family-friendly programming on Fourth of July at the Prospect Park Audubon Center, Lefferts Historic House and the Carousel.Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake. Plus, visit the Lefferts Historic House for family-friendly outdoor and indoor exhibits, activities, workshops, and special programs. And take a spin on the Carousel from 12-5pm ($3 rides).
Friday, July 4 | 9:25pm
Macy’s annual fireworks show will launch from the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River this year! The 25-minute-long display will start around 9:25pm. The only area for public viewing in Brooklyn will be Brooklyn Bridge Park and free lottery tickets will be available here starting July 1. Click here for everything you need to know about this year’s fireworks!
Friday, July 4 | 9:45pm
Stick around after the Hot Dog Eating Contest for Coney Island’s Independence Day fireworks show, starting at 9:45pm.
Saturdays | 10am-12pm
Come downstairs for weekly complimentary entertainment for your little ones to enjoy. There will be balloon twisting, magic shows, face painting, circus performers, and more. Located in front of Osteria and Showroom Bakehouse.
Saturday, July 5 | 10am-1pm
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Participants will learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse and observe our underwater invertebrates up close using magnifying glasses. Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake.
Saturdays | 10am-4pm | Register here in advance!
All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers — life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Advance registration is required; make a reservation here. Do not walk-up without a reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Saturdays | 11:00-11:30am | Through July 12
Join us for a free Rhythm & Heart dance class in McCarren Park—for children AND families of all ages!
Saturday, July 5 | 11:45am-1:00pm | Register here
Join the Governors Island Nature team for free guided tours, held the first Saturday of each month through October.
Saturdays | 12-4pm
Join us by the Peninsula as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Saturdays | 12-4pm
Join us by the dog beach as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Saturdays | 12-10pm
Vanderbilt Open Streets offers free programs for the whole family on car-free streets in Prospect Heights! Stay tuned here to see this weekend’s lineup of family-friendly programming.
Saturdays | 1-5pm
Visit the Environmental Education Center for Open Hours. Open Hours offer the opportunity for self-led investigation with guidance by expert educators to reveal the hidden stories found within and around Brooklyn Bridge Park. Explore our critter and fish tanks, a 10′ model of the Park, and enjoy custom arts, crafts, and reading materials which rotate on a monthly basis.
Saturdays | 2-10pm
Park Slope Open Streets on 5th Avenue from Union to 4th Street offers family-friendly programming and music every Saturday from May to October (excluding August). On Saturday, July 5, join for Open Streets fun and a Phish tribute from Readicculus from 3-5pm between Carroll and Garfield.
Saturdays & Sundays | Performances at 2pm & 4pm
After presenting concerts for nearly 50 years in a floating concert hall at Pier 1, Bargemusic has relocated their chamber music concerts to the Boathouse at Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 5. All concerts are free!
Saturday, July 5 | 8pm
Fireworks are scheduled for 8-8:20pm at Breezy Point in the Rockaways. Sponsored by the Breezy Point Fireworks.
Sundays | 10am-12pm
The Pier 2 Roller Rink in Brooklyn Bridge Park offers free admission hours on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays. Roller skate with amazing views of the Brooklyn Bridge and lower Manhattan! Skate rental is $8 per person.
Sundays | 10am-12pm | Through June 29
Looking for a creative and colorful way to spend the weekend with your family? Join every weekend for some family-friendly arts & crafts at the Sunset Park Recreation Center.
Sunday, July 6 | 10am-1pm
Join the Prospect Park Alliance for nature education programs at the Prospect Park Audubon Center. Participants will learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse and observe our underwater invertebrates up close using magnifying glasses. Programs include pond water sampling, a close-up encounter with water-dwelling creatures like turtles and fish, and a nature walk along Brooklyn’s only lake.
Sunday, July 6 | 10am-4:3opm | RSVP here
This fun and family-friendly interactive event vividly recreates the momentous July day in 1776 when—after hearing the Declaration of Independence read for the first time in New York— fired-up American soldiers and sailors tore down the reviled gilded statue of King George III that stood in Bowling Green.
Sunday, July 6 | 10:30am-1:15pm | RSVP here
Play in the Square returns to Domino Square featuring family-friendly activities and performances. Twice monthly, bring the family to Domino Square for a fun-filled Sunday morning, featuring programming by local, talented children’s performers and educators. On July 6, join for:
10:30-11:15am | Musical Theatre with Bubbly B’s
12:30-1:15pm | Rockin’ Sing-alongs with Ari the Sing-along Guy
Sundays | 11am-2pm
Come downstairs for weekly complimentary entertainment for your little ones to enjoy. There will be balloon twisting, magic shows, face painting, circus performers, and more. Located in front of Osteria and Showroom Bakehouse.
Sundays | 12:00-2:30pm | Register here in advance!
All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers — life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Advance registration is required; make a reservation here. Do not walk-up without a reservation, as they will likely not be able to accommodate you!
Sundays | 12-4pm
Join us by the Peninsula as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Sundays | 12-4pm
Join us by the dog beach as we learn about Prospect Park’s watercourse by examining our underwater visitors with magnifying glasses. Activities will include Play & Go activity packs, Pond Water Discovery, and a nature walk.
Sunday, July 6 | 2-5pm | RSVP here
Join Prospect Park Alliance for a historical and musical exploration of the little-know enslaved revolt in New Utrecht in 1706. Enslaved Africans throughout the Americas constantly revolted to free themselves and improve their conditions. Come learn about the revolt and listen to the coded drum beats that may have been used to coordinate it.
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Updated: July 1, 2025. Main Photo: Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks over the East River.
