Summer on the Harlem Meer
Welcome to a dynamic summer of music, play, and nature on the Harlem Meer. We hope you’ll join us!
Things to Do
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Kids & Families
Nature
11:00 amDiscover the Meer and its Residents
FREE
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Nature Walks depart at 11:00 am from the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center plaza
The Harlem Meer (Dutch for “lake”) is one of Central Park’s best-kept secrets: a perfect spot to relax, connect with others, and observe nature. Join our team of friendly tour guides for a morning of hands-on activities and nature walks before the Harlem Meer Performance Festival.
From nature-themed arts and crafts featuring the Meer’s wildlife (including its beloved turtles!) and waterside chats about its ecology to 30-minute guided walks around the Meer, we invite visitors of all ages to get to know this water body like never before.
All activities are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Register here to reserve a spot on the nature walks.
Tags: Staff Picks / Nature Lovers / Kids and Families
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Kids & Families
Play
12:00 amExplore Recreational Opportunities for All Ages
FREE while supplies last
12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center is your gateway to Central Park’s north end! One of the Park’s five visitor centers, this site offers recreational opportunities, free educational and community programs, exhibits, and more.
This summer, in addition to musical events and nature programs, we are excited to offer various games and activities for everyone to enjoy. One of the highlights is The Central Park Time Machine, an immersive audio guide designed for kids and their grownups. We also offer nature discovery kits, lawn games, and other surprises available on site. The best part? All activities are completely free!
Tags: Staff Picks / Nature Lovers / Kids and Families
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Music
Attend the Harlem Meer Performance Festival
FREE
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
The Harlem Meer Performance Festival is back! This annual festival has been a community fixture since the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center opened in 1993. Each summer, this event delights thousands of attendees with its celebratory atmosphere and brings the best local talent to Central Park.
Enjoy Meer-side views and a variety of performances, featuring multigenre and family-friendly music, dance, and entertainment. Performances are scheduled every Sunday from July 14 to August 18. All ages are welcome.
