Lower Manhattan is easily one of the trendiest and liveliest places to be this summer. The area will feature an impressive lineup of festivals as well as several other entertainment options for those who are seeking to make the most of the beautiful weather ahead coupled with the city’s unique energy.

Summer 2016 is a big summer in NYC as there is something going on almost everyday of the week. Whether you’re the foodie type, enjoy live music or prefer to be active outdoors, you will surely find something that suits your tastes.

For all those who are ballin’ on a budget, many of the events being held are free, and you know what they say – the best things in life come free!

Below are our favourite pics on what we think will make up for an all encompassing opportunity to experience the best of NYC this summer.

  • NYC French Restaurant Week is back! From July 4th to July17th there will be restaurants participating in this event offering unbeatable pre-fixed menus! This event is held in honor of Bastille Week and celebrates French food and culture.
  • Broadway in Bryant Park runs Thursdays from July 7th to August 11th. The most popular shows both on and off Broadway perform songs from the shows for free! This event is presented by 106.7 Lite FM.
  • Summer Streets is another event that takes place in August. On August 6th, 13th, and 20th don’t plan on driving in the city because NYC prohibits cars from the Brooklyn Bridge all the way to Central Park from 7am-1pm. Summer Streets encourages you to enjoy walking, running, biking, and even playing in the streets without the fear of being caught up in NYC’s traffic madness.
  • The Battery Dance Festival, formerly known as the Downtown Dance Festival, is hosting its 35th annual festival at Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park from August 14th – 19th. The dancing begins at 6:30pm and goes until 8:30pm. The BDF is the longest running free public dance festival that showcases professional and upcoming dancers and choreographers.
  • All summer long until September 15th, there are free movies hosted by the NYC Parks and Recreation Department. Every night of the week there are different films playing at various parks in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. This is the perfect way to enjoy a film with your neighbors while getting to enjoy time outdoors and appreciate the city.
  • Brunch on a sailboat with an open Champagne bar? Needless to say this is a must in NYC this summer. The Champagne Brunch aboard the Shearwater runs on Sundays from August 7th – October 9th! Sailing for two hours with a gourmet buffet and open Champagne bar, guests can book tickets in advance and set sail!
  • Out of Doors is a unique cultural arts event that offers free live music, dance, and spoken word every Wednesday to Sunday from August 7th to October 9th in the Lincoln Center plazas. Keep in mind the events are weather permitting so if it’s pouring out don’t expect indoor seating! The full calendar of events is posted: http://lcoutofdoors.org.
  • Shakespeare in the Park is a series of Shakespeare plays performed at Delacorte Theater in Central Park. From May 24th to August 14th, the public can reserve free tickets to three different plays. The performances begin at 8pm and showcase the hard work of actors who want to keep Shakespeare alive.
  • Visit the South Street Seaport and take a stroll with a view! There is shopping, food, and a lot of history in the area. The South Street Seaport Museum is a cultural experience that everyone can appreciate and teaches about New York’s role in the development of the United States.
  • Lower Manhattan has a number of sights to see, and summer is the perfect time to go sightseeing. One World Trade Center is a major attraction, standing 1,776 feet tall. People can see Federal Hall, where the first U.S. president was sworn in. But if history isn’t your area of interest, Battery Park City is filled with art masterpieces! Regardless of your niche, there is something for everyone to see in Lower Manhattan this summer.