Find free and low-cost things to do with kids in Queens, including fun family shows and concerts, outdoor movies, and the annual pow wow at Queens County Farm Museum.
July 4
Celebrate July 4th Satchmo Style
Celebrate America’s birthday at the home of an American original. Louis Armstrong, the founding father of jazz who was also known as Satchmo, always celebrated his birthday on the Fourth of July. At Summer with Satchmo at the Louie Armstrong House Museum, families can enjoy an intimate tour of Armstrong’s former home in Corona and listen to rare recordings of his work.
July 5
A Stunning Spectacle
The Golden Dragon Acrobats combine award-winning acrobatics, spectacular costumes, traditional dance and music, and jaw-dropping theatrical techniques into one breathtaking show at Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
July 6
The Little Cow that Could
Despite many trials and tribulations, Bessie the cow has long dreamed of being in the circus. See the variety show Puppets in the Park: Bessie’s Big Shot in Fort Totten Park to find out if her dream comes true. Bring a blanket or low chair. FREE!
July 24-25
Teachers Rock
Do you ever wonder what teachers do over the summer? Three elementary-school teachers from Seattle—Jack Forman, Drew Holloway, and Daron Henry (pictured, left to right)—turn into musicians and tour with their band, Recess Monkey. The trio’s “undeniably hip, yet kid-accessible” music rocks the NYC area this month with songs that throw jokes, puns, and shenanigans into the mix. They’ll perform their greatest hits along with songs from their new CD, In Tents, at Rufus King Park (FREE!) as well as the nearby Long Island Children’s Museum.
July 27-29
Boom, Boom, Boom
That drumming signals the start of the 34th annual Thunderbird Native American Pow Wow at the Queens County Farm Museum. This weekend-long event features song and dance performances by representatives from more than 40 Native American nations, all dressed in traditional regalia. (Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to join in!)
Wednesdays through July
Nights! Camera! Action!
Relax, enjoy a movie, and celebrate the cultural diversity of our borough during Outdoor Cinema 2012, a film festival in Socrates Sculpture Park that focuses on a different country or culture each week. Families can picnic on the grass and watch international films on an outdoor screen.
Find even more fun family activities in Queens and the NY metro area in our full calendar of events!
