Enjoy a great view at Governor’s Island.
Credit: Facebook
Sometimes you need to get away from the city, but not for long. Those days are perfect for one of the islands dotting Manhattan’s borders, many of which are jam-packed with summer activities. If you haven’t made it out to one, it’s not too late! From African festivals to electric music, here are some events to check out before summer ends.
Governors Island
Get on wheels when the Skate Truck NYC stops by Governors Island in New York Harbor, providing roller-skating equipment for anyone who wants to skate. The mobile truck rents out roller skates and inline skates around the city in spots like Central Park. The company also provides skate lessons, so channel your inner middle schooler at a birthday party and strap on the skates.
July 27 and 28
Aug. 11, 24, 25 and 31
Sept. 1 and 2
One of the buzziest events of summer, the Jazz Age Lawn Party, has its second weekend extravaganza in August. The ferry over to Governors Island is filled with people sporting flapper dresses and 1920s accessories, and on the island’s lawn, live jazz and dance performance are surrounded by games and gourmet food for all ages.
Aug. 17 and 18
The African continent is on display in the African Film Festival in August, which hosts films about Africa’s vibrant culture. Before or after a film, stop by an African dance class from superb instructors hailing from Brazil, Senegal and Guinea. The event also includes drumming, free storytelling and quilting demonstrations. You can also snack on African cuisine.
Aug. 4
Randall’s Island
The Electric Zoo Festival returns to Randall’s Island Park during the Labor Day weekend. Randall’s Island, if you haven’t yet been, is along the East River between Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx, and it also hosted the Governors Ball music festival earlier this summer. Huge crowds attend this electronic dance music festival, which features performances ranging from the duo Above & Beyond to Connecticut native Audien.
Aug. 30 through Sept. 1
Roosevelt Island
If you haven’t yet taken the tram to Roosevelt Island, it’s time to stop by this sliver of land in the East River. Stop by on the tram, or the F train, for the last few films in their outdoor Summer Movie Series, which features “Brave” July 27, “Rocky” Aug. 10 and “Inception” Aug. 24. Swing by the Roosevelt Island Historical Society, which has an exhibition, “Signs of Times Gone By,” through the end of July featuring signs and markers from around the island.
Follow Alison Bowen on Twitter @reporteralison
