This summer, Bryant Park continues its tradition of bringing free, world-class performances to Midtown Manhattan with a vibrant lineup of concerts, cultural celebrations, and first-time spectacles—all under the city skyline.
On Aug. 15, drummer and dhol master Sunny Jain headlines Wild Wild East, a bold fusion of South Asian sounds and storytelling. He’s joined by Gamelan Dharma Swara, who introduce the hypnotic rhythms and intricate dances of Bali to Bryant Park for the first time.
The excitement soars higher on Aug. 16, as the park hosts its inaugural New York City Circus Festival. Acts include Sxip Shirey’s Sound Action Ensemble, Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, ABCirque, Hybrid Movement Co., and more—featuring aerialists, acrobats, clowns, and even a giant Rolly apparatus in a celebration of NYC’s bold circus scene.
On Friday, August 22, the Grammy-winning Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra perform Belongó, a big band tribute to NYC’s musical evolution in honor of the city’s 400th birthday.
The annual Accordions Around the World Festival returns Aug. 29, spotlighting global artists like Brazil’s Livia Mattos, offering a deep dive into the versatile world of the squeezebox.
Then, on Aug. 30, Steven Bernstein’s Millennial Territory Orchestra and special guests—including Joan as Policewoman, Vernon Reid, and Corey Glover—honor funk icon Sly Stone in New York Loves Sly!
The American Symphony Orchestra performs New York Profiles on Sept. 12, featuring mid-20th-century American composers shaped by—and who shaped—the city’s musical identity.
Roulette kicks off its Fall 2025 Season with pianist Vicky Chow who will perform composer/sound artist Tristan Perich’s Surface Image, an evening-length work for solo piano composed by Perich specifically for Chow and premiered at Roulette in 2013. It happens Sept. 11 at 7 PM – 8:30 PM.
Also on the bill is violinist, violist, and experimental composer Jessica Pavone, who will present new material with her String Ensemble, as well as a solo opening set from bassoonist, performance artist, and composer Joy Guidry.
All performances are free, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are welcome to bring blankets and enjoy picnic-style dining, with food available from the Hester Street Fair.
For the full schedule, visit bryantpark.org.