This and That: Things To Do in NYC in August 2024 (Plus Free Events!)
While August may constitute the dog days of summer, the city is full steam ahead with plenty to do. Get out for a good cause or a good time in August: here are a few events in NYC (and slightly beyond!) worth your time.
Southampton Hospital Foundation’s 66th Annual Summer Party
A recent Southampton Hospital Foundation Summer Party. Image: Sean Zanni/PMC via KDHamptons.
What is it: A hallmark of the Hamptons social season, this elegant gathering honors over a century of dedication to healthcare, rooted in Southampton Hospital’s founding in 1909. Under the grand tents on Wickapogue Road, the community comes together in support of essential services, from emergency care to advanced treatments. This storied event, rich in tradition, embodies the enduring spirit of philanthropy that has long sustained the hospital’s mission of compassionate, high-quality care for the East End. Hamptons empress Rachael Zoe will serve as Fashion Chair while Gregory D’Elia, Norah Lawlor, and Lisa Tamburini will serve as Publicity Chairs. Nancy Stone will serve as Corporate Partnership Chair.
Why go: The longest running charitable fundraiser in the Hamptons, to attend is to embrace a legacy of community and care, woven into the fabric of the Hamptons for over a century. It’s more than a gala—it’s a moment to stand with neighbors, ensuring that world-class healthcare remains at the heart of our region. As the sun sets over Wickapogue Road, your presence echoes a commitment to compassion, making an indelible impact on the lives touched by Southampton Hospital.
Dress code: Summer formal.
What's involved: Cocktails with music by American Idol alum Christiaan Padavan followed by a seated dinner. Awards presentation followed by dancing and live music by That 70s Band.
Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 from 6:00pm until late under the tents at Wickapoque Road. Information and tickets here.
Circle Line’s Dance Cruise: Hip Hop Divas
Circle Line Dance Cruise. Image: Circle Line.
What is it: Offering a unique vantage point to experience New York City's iconic skyline, Circle Line offers the definitive boat cruise around New York City. This particular cruise is a vibrant celebration of women in hip hop, transforming the Hudson River into a floating dance floor. With beats that echo the heart of the city, guests are invited to groove, learn iconic moves, and toast to the divas who’ve shaped the genre—all while supporting the culture that fuels it with the concrete jungle beckoning all around.
Why go: The event will showcase music from trailblazing artists like Roxanne Shante, Queen Latifah, Eve, Megan Thee Stallion, and many more with legendary DJ Spinderella on the decks. You'll learn a dance routine lead by Pop Choreography Expert Byron Freeman from B. Free Dance. Once you slayed that routine, let loose during the free-for-all final hour while we dance the rest of the night away while sailing alongside the best city views at sunset!
What's involved: DJ sets and dancing, a photo booth, mesmerizing views of New York City by boat, choreography lessons, as well as themed cocktails and snacks.
Wednesday, August 7th, 2024 from 7:30pm-10:00pm, sailing around Manhattan from Pier 83. Information and tickets from $50.00 here.
STING Performance at 50th Anniversary Reenactment of Philippe Petit’s High-Wire WTC Twin Tower Walk
Philippe Petit at the World Trade Center in 2024. Image: Jared Siskin/Getty Images.
What is it: Philippe Petit’s walk between the twin towers of the World Trade Center was a cultural statement at the time of its execution in 1974, and has only grew in fascination and import as the years have gone by. Now the artist is presenting “TOWERING!!”, a limited engagement of only two performances, designed to recall and reimagine the magic of the walk. Judith Roze, Deputy Cultural Counselor, French Embassy in the U.S, put it succinctly: “50 years ago, Philippe’s Highwire walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center was not merely a stunt. It was a poetic dance in the sky that challenged our perceptions of fear, boundaries, and the limits of human potential.”
French aerialist Philippe Petit holds a balancing pole as he crosses a steel cable suspended between the not-yet-completed Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, 1350ft above ground, in New York City. Image: AP.
Why go: Along with the opportunity to witness the man once more walk on wire within The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine (where Petit has maintained a long-running residency), the artist will present a series of short choreographed moments and vocal elaborations on the history and challenges that accompanied the daring feat. The artist will be joined by close friend Sting (performing a world premiere song written about Philippe) along with a host of other talents including Grammy-award nominated Jazz Clarinetist Anat Cohen, Molly Lewis and many others.
What's involved: Performances from Philippe Petit and Sting, among others.
Two gala performances, both taking place at The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine.
Wednesday, August 7th, 2024 at 8:30pm. Information and tickets here.
Thursday, August 8th, 2024 at 8:30pm. Information and tickets here.
FREE EVENT: IKEA Sleepeasy Pop-Up in SoHo
The IKEA Sleepeasy in NYC. Image: IKEA.
What is it: IKEA, the iconic Swedish home design company is bringing a celebration of sleep to New York City’s SoHo neighborhood for a very limited engagement. Focusing on the six sleep essentials of comfort, light, temperature, sound, air and decluttering, the interactive exhibition puts a playful twist on a speakeasy concept, the multi-level pop-up space will be designed as a Swedish bodega that features interactive experiences where visitors can enjoy IKEA, food, live music, silent discos, and Instagrammable moments amid hanging clouds, light shows, piles of pillows, pink-ified closets, and much more.
Why go: This is a rare opportunity to catch IKEA at its absolute creative best while picking up some practical tips on getting better sleep. “With the support of our extensive life at home research and studies, IKEA offers a complete range of products to help people improve their sleep quality. The products correlate with each of the six sleep essentials and vary based on individual needs,” said Tania Moreira, Bedroom Business Manager at IKEA U.S. “The IKEA Sleepeasy is a fun way to showcase how they can sleep better with affordable and quality products.”
Shop the featured products after the event
If you see something you loved at the event, visit the As-Is section at the local IKEA shop in Brooklyn after Sunday, August 18th. There you can purchase the gently used items for your space. Products used for display during the event are thoroughly inspected to ensure functionality and safety.
What's involved: A multi-level pop up experience with IKEA products on display along with tips and advice to get your best sleep. Silent discos, tea parties, and a bodega with products available for purchase.
Two weekends, both taking place at 51 Crosby Street, New York, New York. These are free events with no RSVP required. Information here.
Thursday, August 8th through Sunday, August 11th from 11am until 9pm (7pm on Sunday).
Thursday, August 12th through Sunday, August 18th from 11am until 9pm (7pm on Sunday).
Hamptons Concours presented by RAND Luxury
What is it: Amidst the serene elegance of the Hamptons, this exclusive gathering is where automotive artistry meets opulence and the high point of summer. Enthusiasts and collectors converge in Bridgehampton, sharing a passion for design, performance, and luxury. In this refined setting, each gleaming vehicle tells a story of craftsmanship, making it a must-attend for those who appreciate the finer things. This year’s event will focus on Ferrari and Porsche vehicles from model year 2014 and older.
Why go: It’s a chance to admire rare automotive masterpieces up close, each one a testament to human ingenuity and design. For those who appreciate beauty in motion, this event is an unforgettable celebration of excellence. Moreover, this exclusive gathering is brought to life by a remarkable lineup of supporters who epitomize luxury and excellence. From the sleek lines of Ferrari, Maserati, Aston Martin, and McLaren, to the refined tastes of Louis XIII, Cohiba, and Peroni, each partner contributes to the event's unparalleled sophistication. Whether it’s the precision of a Roger Dubuis timepiece, the innovative elegance of Lucid Motors, or the craftsmanship of Remy Martin, every detail at the event is a celebration of the finer things in life.
What’s involved: Encounter with a wide range of automobiles, a fully catered brunch, top shelf spirits, scotch tastings, and hand-rolled cigars.
Sunday, August 11th, 2024, from 11:00am until 3:00pm in Bridgehampton, NY (location provided upon RSVP). Information and tickets here.
Celebrate National Rum Month with BACARDÍ and Tipsy Scoop
The Hill in New York. Image: The Hill in New York.
What is it: BACARDÍ is celebrating National Rum Month with an all-out celebration, starting with the debut of an all new sorbet flavor in collaboration with Tipsy Scoop, the BACARDÍ Ocho Guava Daiquiri sorbet. You’ll be able to find the limited edition flavor at Tipsy Scoop shops located in Manhattan and Brooklyn all month long. Founded in 2014 by Melissa Tavss, Tipsy Scoop blends ice cream tradition with a modern twist, fusing ice cream with alcohol, creating cocktail-inspired frozen treats. Their "Barlours" offer boozy delights like rum-infused scoops, making them a unique New York dessert destination.
Why go: Celebration is in order for rum enthusiasts and sorbet lovers alike— a chance for you to experience the sophistication of BACARDÍ Reserva Ocho Rum with Tipsy Scoop’s inventive ice cream. The limited-edition Guava Daiquiri sorbet offers a unique, refreshing treat perfect for celebrating Rum Month. If you’re not able to make it over to a Tipsy Scoop location, worry not— you can purchase the BACARDÍ Reserva Ocho Guava Daiquiri Sorbet online at Goldbelly with shipping available nationally.
What's involved: An exclusive new flavor of ice cream as a result of a collaboration between BACARDÍ and Tipsy Scoop.
The limited edition BACARDÍ Ocho Guava Daiquiri Sorbet flavor will be available for purchase at Tipsy Scoop locations for all of August.
National Rum Day: On August 16th only, the first 50 guests at any Tipsy Scoop location will enjoy FREE samples of the new BACARDÍ Ocho Guava Daiquiri Sorbet. Information here.
Party 006 at Le Bain
What Is It: After a candlelit dinner at Carbone or Pastis, make way to the iconic and legendary Le Bain at The Standard, High Line, for a raving Thursday outing hosted by the collaborating party masterminds oneoneone, Internet.Hotspot, and SoundGallery. Located at the penthouse of the hotel, this iconic pool-bound space has been the main stage for Met Gala afterparties, movie premieres, and more. Friends, lovers, and couples are all welcome to revel in the sound at this signature port of call in NYC. As always, fall for whatever you need: make out sessions on the dance floor, business-class networking, asking for a really elaborate martini at the sunken bar, or texting in the corner all night (actually, don’t do this).
Why Go: Thursday has always been the new Saturday. Come for the guarantee of a fun time, but stay for the best DJs in NYC nightlife. The night will include back-to-back sets from Brooklyn’s finest like the lush DJ Thank You and the hardcore Heartbreaker, plus work by DJ Brandy Melville.
Dress code: "Absolutely no shorts”.
What’s Involved: Dancing and drinks in a lush penthouse space.
Thursday, August 15th, 2024 from 10pm onward at Le Bain. Information and tickets here.
MoMA PS1 Warm Up 2024 Series
MoMA PS1 Warm Up 2023. Image: Ryan Muir for PS1.
What is it: For 26 seasons, MoMA PS1’s summer music series, Warm Up, has delved into electronic music's evolution. Set in the museum’s courtyard, the 2024 lineup boasts global and local talent, including Detroit techno legend Terrence Dixon, Jersey club luminary UNIIQU3, and queer icon KIM AHN. The series features an innovative stage by artist Stewart Uoo. Rooted in New York City's rich nightlife history, it offers a unique blend of sonic experimentation and dancefloor energy, drawing both music aficionados and casual listeners alike. A group of New York-based artists key to the city’s interdisciplinary music and performance networks serves as this year’s host committee: Korakrit Arunanondchai (Ghost/BKK), E. Jane (MHYSA), Tom Laprade (Montez Press Radio), Oscar Nñ (Papi Juice), and Jen Sillen (Rash/Club Cringe).
Why go: The people watching, to start. But MoMA PS1’s summer music series is a must for electronic music enthusiasts, art lovers, and nightlife aficionados, broadly. It’s also one of the few places in the city where people will actually dance and for good reason, the line-up this year includes avant-garde ensemble Tongue in the Mind (a collaboration between artists Juliana Huxtable, Jealous Orgasm, and Via App), Paris-based electronica producer Emma dj; Atlanta-based founder of Underground & Black Ash Lauryn; co-founder of the São Paulo collective and record label Mamba Negra Cashu and more.
What’s involved: DJ sets and dancing along with refreshments in an art-forward space.
Every Friday through August 16th, 2024. 4pm onward at MoMA PS1. Information and tickets here.
The US Open Tennis Championships
What is it: Held at Flushing Meadows since 1881, The US Open is a cornerstone of the sport’s calendar, drawing the globe’s top players to its iconic hard courts. The 2024 US Open will offer an eye-popping $75 million in total player compensation, including $3.6 million for the men's and women's singles champions. With a history rich in tradition and drama, it’s not just about fierce matches but also a celebration of athleticism, and global flair.
Why go: Its a chance to witness tennis greatness in action, with free practice sessions offering an insider’s view of the world’s top players at their most casual and relaxed (and with fewer crowds!). Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while sipping on iconic an Grey Goose Honey Deuce™ cocktail. Rub shoulders with celebrities like Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer. Meanwhile, immerse yourself in a spectacle where sport, style, and star power converge in thrilling harmony, with special events such as the Flavors of the Open presented by Dobel Tequila, where guests can sample premium dishes crafted by celebrity chefs such as Pat LaFrieda and Alex Guarnaschelli, Masaharu Morimoto, and more.
us open Fan Week: August 19th-25th, 2024
The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center grounds will once again be free and open to the public during Fan Week in 2024, featuring a variety of fun, tennis-centric events and activities for the whole family. While the US Open Qualifying Tournament anchors the week, each day has its own featured event that you won’t want to miss!
Are you an American Express cardholder? You’ll enjoy a series of epic experiences exclusively for you, including an interactive, digital game – Glow Tennis – and fan favorites on the tournament grounds, including discounted bag check, the American Express® Radio and access to the Card Member Lounge and Centurion® Lounge. Be sure to stop by the American Express Shop to explore products from local NYC small businesses.
What’s involved: High-profile tennis matches along with a wide range of side events taking place during the tournament.
Monday, August 19th through Sunday, September 8th, 2024. Matches and events daily at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Information, schedules, and match tickets here.
Other Things Around the World
France: The Olympics will conclude with a lavish closing ceremony in Paris on Sunday, August 11th, 2024 after half a month of games. USA: Indonesia Festival returns to Washington DC on Sunday, August 25th, 2024. Guests will encounter Indonesian cuisine, arts and crafts, and cultural performaces at the impressive Indonesian Embassy. Free tickets here. Spain: La Tomatina, the tomato-throwing festival, will return to Buñol on the last Wednesday of August. Brazil: Instituto Tomie Ohtake with Iguatemi will present the groundbreaking exhibition Calder + Miró, featuring over 150 masterpieces by Alexander Calder and Joan Miró in São Paulo, from now until September 15, 2024. United Kingdom: Highlights of the August bank holiday weekend include the Notting Hill Carnival, a massive celebration of Caribbean culture in the UK.
