This summer, we’re prioritizing offscreen, immersive, multi-sensory entertainment for our family. That means live music wherever and whenever (before bedtime). Here’s where we look to go acculturate our youth:

The River to River Festival 
June 7th – June 23rd
The Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC) organized the first River to River Festival as a response to 9/11, with the hope of healing and celebrating New Yorkers’ resilience through community engagement, performance, and art. Now two decades in, this free public festival is a celebration of civic engagement, cultural institutions, and artistic creativity.

This annual cultural event will be refreshed for the LMCC’s 50th Anniversary. Showcasing diverse artistic disciplines, the festival’s official schedule includes installations, storytelling, and an all-ages party, all integrating music. The range of art and activities makes the River to River festival a can’t miss event.

Battery Park City: “Kindie Rock”
Ongoing
All summer, Battery Park City Authority hosts a “Kindie Rock” series of family-friendly performers. Held at the Rockefeller Park House at 10:30AM on Wednesdays, these spirited sing-alongs lead dynamic movement.

This series is best for younger groups. With ongoing action and activity, it’s a great space for tiny humans to burn some energy while exploring music. With your older kids, try:

Battery Park City: “Interludes,” “River & Blues,” & More
Ongoing

The Battery Park City Authority hosts a wide range of musical events throughout the summer. Including “Interludes,” “Strings-on-Hudson,” “River & Blues,” & more, the diverse lineup is a great way to explore genres live with kids of all ages.

Held in Belvedere Plaza, Esplanade Plaza, and Nelson A. Rockefeller Park, these free, convenient and fun events are a great addition to a waterfront walk on a breezy summer day.

Hudson River Park: “Matinee Music”
May – September

During the Spring and Fall, the Hudson River Park puts on the Matinee Music series. Truly a midweek refresh (each concert is held on a Wednesday at 12:00PM), the concerts feature artists from many artistic traditions.

While the lineup has not been released at the time of writing, the series is held in partnership with The Jazz Foundation of America, MORE Opera, and The Bishop Presents. There will be shows stretching from May to September of 2024.

Carnegie Hall: Family Performances 
Ongoing

Lastly, the famed Carnegie Hall holds family-specific programming with ticket prices ranging from free to $23/person. The stated mission is to “develop creativity, imagination, and musical curiosity in people of all ages,” so adults can expect to enjoy the programming as well.

Specifically intended to promote early childhood development through music and play, these events often have hands-on elements, though concerts are available as well. The ongoing Musical Explorers Family series teaches musical traditions with highly engaging live performers and interactive activities.