Free and Fun Activities for a Great Summer Season
By Mayor Michael Bloomberg
The summer is now in full swing, and if you forget about the near-record rains we’ve been experiencing, you can see summer all around us. Our public pools and beaches are open, summer school is running smoothly (despite the chaos up in Albany), and the Yankees are rolling while the Mets are just gathering their strength for a great second half. (You gotta believe!)
Summer is a time to get out there and celebrate, and even if you’re feeling the pinch during this recession, we’re making sure there are still plenty of ways to have fun in the City, regardless of your budget. Government has a responsibility to help New Yorkers through these tough times, and that includes helping them enjoy the fun and excitement that our city is famous for.
So, before last winter’s holiday season, I asked City agencies to develop a huge range of free and low-cost activities in every borough. And now we’re doing it again. It doesn’t matter where you live or what you’re interested in, there’s something fun for you and your family to do this summer—for free.
For instance, why not take the free ferry to Governors Island, where there are free bike rentals and miniature golf? And this summer, a group of artists has taken over some of the Island’s historical sites with a series of interesting and interactive art installations. Or check out one of the many free concerts happening in parks and public spaces around town: R&B, classical music, jazz, a Billy Joel tribute, you name it.
Maybe you or your kids want to learn a new skill. Well, you’re in luck. In conjunction with the City Parks Foundation, we offer free programs in everything from the theater to throwing the javelin.
Volunteering for one of the many initiatives that are part of our new community service campaign, NYC Service, is another great way to fill the summer. It doesn’t cost a thing, and the rewards are priceless. And don’t forget about the return of Summer Streets. Last year, on several Saturdays, we closed seven miles of streets running right through the heart of Manhattan. This year, in addition to that, there will be Summer Streets for joggers, bicyclists and pedestrians in every borough.
The possibilities to have fun without spending a dime are almost endless. In fact, we’ve put together a calendar of more than 1,500 free events and activities happening over the next few months, which you can see by visiting www.nyc.gov. Have a great summer. #
