Manhattan summer events

Few things beat Hudson and Bergen Counties’ prime location just across the river from Manhattan. It’s good to be in the Jerz, but sometimes it’s better to head across the Hudson for the inimitable sights and delights of the city. In this new recurring section, we’ll collect the best that NYC has to offer, from festivals and special events to restaurant profiles and interviews with stars from the Great White Way.


Save the Date for These Events

Lincoln Center Out of Doors: This year marks the 45th season of the The Lincoln Center Out of Doors festival, which includes music and dance events from July 20 through August 7. Head to the website for a complete list of programming.

SummerStage: A highlight of summertime in NYC is The City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage series. There are paid and free events nearly every day through September 23—big-name bands, theater, ballet, opera, dance parties, live poetry, and more—at Central Park’s iconic Rumsey Playfield and other locales throughout the boroughs. Don’t miss the free Charlie Parker Jazz Series August 26–28, and, if you’re willing to wait in line, the free “Chicago The Musical: 20th Anniversary Concert” on the main stage on August 31. Check out the list of all the gigs.

Jazz Age Lawn Party: Head to Governor’s Island August 13-14 for a 1920s-inspired soirée, where flapper dresses, bow ties, and suspenders are encouraged. Step back in time and dance to live jazz while trying out classic cocktails. Other events include dance and pie contests, vintage portraits, a motorcar exhibition, and carnival games for the wee ones. For a complete list of activities and vendors, visit Jazz Age Lawn Party’s website.

Make Your Way with NY Waterway

One thing’s for certain: There’s no better way to get “Across the River” than NY Waterway. With departure points in New Jersey from Edgewater Landing and Weehawken’s Port Imperial all the way down the coast to Jersey City’s Port Liberté and the Belford stop, NY Waterway certainly offers the most civilized way to cross the Hudson with its breathtaking views of the city skyline—as well as food services, air conditioning, and free WiFi.

Manhattan terminals include Midtown/39th Street, the World Financial Center, and Pier 11/Wall Street. Depending on your route, you can be in the city within minutes. (For instance, the Edgewater ferry gets you to Midtown in 15 minutes flat for $10.25.) Kids under five ride for free.

Parking won’t be a problem, either. Keep your car at NJ terminals for as low as $8 for the day, and enjoy free shuttle service in the city. (Call 877.532.8737 to find out exactly where and when to catch the complimentary NY Waterway buses.)

NY Waterway’s tagline is “Less money, less time, less stress.” It’s true. Motor over to NY Waterway’s website for a complete list of ferry terminals and schedules.

By Judy Grover, Editor