Bryant Park Picnic Performances presented by Bank of America is back for the 2025 summer season, kicking off on May 30 with an expanded and electrifying schedule. The beloved free outdoor festival—known for making world-class arts and culture accessible to all—will once again transform the heart of Midtown Manhattan into a vibrant open-air stage.
Running from through September 12, this year’s series includes 25 dazzling live performances spanning opera, classical music, jazz, dance, and more. Returning partners such as New York City Opera and Carnegie Hall Citywide will help bring these magical nights to life, continuing a summer tradition that has become a hallmark of New York’s cultural calendar.
“We are thrilled to bring another season of world-class performances to Bryant Park this summer,” said Dan Biederman, president of Bryant Park Corporation. “This series offers a rare opportunity for anyone to experience the magic of live performance in New York City for free.”
With over 87,000 in-person attendees and more than 440,000 livestream views in previous years, Bryant Park Picnic Performances have grown into one of the city’s most inclusive and widely enjoyed cultural offerings. Organizers aim to expand that reach even further in 2025 with 15 free multi-camera livestreams and select performances airing on PBS—helping bring the arts to even more New Yorkers and beyond.
“Picnic Performances highlights incredible talent and creates a space where the community can enjoy live music, dance, and performances together,” said Connie Verducci, market executive, at Bank of America New York City. “We look forward to sharing another unforgettable summer of art and culture with New Yorkers and visitors alike in partnership with Bryant Park.”
The 2025 season promises collaborations with top-tier cultural institutions across the city, including the New York City Opera, Carnegie Hall Citywide, the Classical Theatre of Harlem, Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York Chinese Cultural Center, Harlem Stage, and more.
Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets, pack picnics, and soak in the atmosphere of one of Manhattan’s most iconic public spaces. Whether you’re a first-time opera-goer or a longtime dance enthusiast, Bryant Park Picnic Performances offers something for everyone—completely free of charge.
For full lineup details and performance dates, visit bryantpark.org.