In addition to outdoor movies and SummerStage performing arts events, the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation offers other free activities in Queens parks this summer.
July 30
Fort Totten Park
Fit Walk (Step Out)
9:00 a.m.
“Join us for a free fitness walking program for adults at Fort Totten Park!”
Mommy, Music, & Me
10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
“Enjoy music and movement activities for children under 7 years old, and the adults that want to play with them. We will also do a musical craft project with the kids.”
August 1
Alley Pond Park
A Morning of Music with Darlene Graham
10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
“This interactive and exciting performance features energetic folk music and remixes of familiar children’s songs that will have everyone singing and dancing along.”
Highland Park
Latin Night featuring Mikata
7:00 p.m.
“Join us for an evening of Bachata and Merengue featuring Mikata.”
August 2
Forest Park
Swing Sabroso
7:30 p.m.
“Dance along to the rhythmic sounds of Salsa.”
Astoria Park Lawn
Waterfront Concert Series 2012
7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
August 3
Flushing Meadows Corona Park (Queens Museum of Art)
Summer Movies in NYC: Fire in Babylon
6:30 p.m.
“Join Rooftop Films on the lawn at the Queens Museum of Art for a night of live music.”
August 4
Alley Pond Park (Adventure Center)
Invasive Removal at Alley Pond Park, Queens
9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
“Join us as we remove invasive from several reforestation plantings in Alley Pond Park, Queens. Please come help take care of our young forest, learn about restoration efforts across the city, and make a positive impact! Volunteers should come dressed in closed-toe shoes, long pants and clothing that can get dirty. No registration required.”
Idlewild Park
Advanced Canoeing
11:00 a.m.
“Our trained Urban Park Rangers will lead you on canoe adventures that range from the gentle waters of protected lakes, to the challenging open waters of rivers and bays. On an Urban Park Ranger canoe program, you can go from novice to expert in one just one summer! Children 8 years old and up are welcome.”
August 5
Forest Park
Fitness Hike (Vigorous)
1:00 p.m.
“Hiking is the ultimate way to enjoy the outdoors and reduce stress. Regardless of the intensity level, it is a great way to burn calories and stay fit. Our Urban Park Ranger hiking guides will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City and places often off limits to the general public. On our hikes, you may explore nature, discover our City’s rich history and diverse culture, or just unplug form the world to clear your head.”
August 8
Crocheron Park (Buz O’ Rourke Playground)
Magic and Comedy of Jim McClenahan
10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
“Join us for the colorful and zany comedy with a magical twist that will bring giggles from children and adults.”
August 9
Forest Park
Zumba
5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
“Enjoy this new fitness craze and make new friends! All are invited – no age limit or skill required – just enjoy the outdoors and be fit!”
Stayin’ Alive
7:30 p.m.
“Come join us and enjoy a musical tribute to the Bee Gees.”
August 10
Grover Cleveland Park
Dancing Under the Stars
5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
“Come join us for an evening of music, face painting for children, a raffle drawing and Latin dance instruction under the stars!”
August 11
Wayanda Park
Family Day
12:00p.m- 4:00p.m.
“Children of all ages can participate in a free afternoon of crafts, games, music, inflatables, pony rides and more!”
Rufus King Park
Hands-on History: A Barn Full of Animals
12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
“Rufus had all sorts of animals on this farm! Learn about the different animals that used to live at King Park. Bring your favorite stuffed animal and enjoy making a special craft for your animal!”
Cunningham Park
Family Camping
6:00 p.m.
“The Urban Park Rangers celebrate the tradition of camping throughout the spring and summer, and we look forward to welcoming your family!”
August 16
Forest Park
Wondrous Stories
7:30 p.m.
“Enjoy an evening of rock’s most time tested music from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.”
August 18
Fort Totten Park
Historic New York Walking Tour: Fort Totten
1:00 p.m.
“Urban Park Rangers specialize in interpretation of historic turning points, both natural and man-made, in our city’s long history.”
August 19
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Basic Canoeing
11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
“Our trained Urban Park Rangers will lead you on canoe adventures that range from the gentle waters of protected lakes, to the challenging open waters of rivers and bays. On an Urban Park Ranger canoe program, you can go from novice to expert in just one summer!”
August 26
Cunningham Park
Biking
11:00 a.m.
“Our Urban Park Ranger cycling guides will introduce you to some of the most famous parks in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views, public artwork, landscape design and an abundance of wildlife.”
September 2
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Hiking
10:00 a.m.
“Hiking is the ultimate way to enjoy the outdoors and reduce stress. Regardless of the intensity level, it is a great way to burn calories and stay fit. Our Urban Park Ranger hiking guides will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City and places often off limits to the general public. On our hikes, you may explore nature, discover our City’s rich history and diverse culture, or just unplug form the world to clear your head.”