Labor Day weekend may signal the unofficial end of summer, but New York City isn’t ready to slow down just yet. With Labor Day falling on Monday, September 7 this year, the long weekend offers one more opportunity to enjoy the outdoor events, waterfront escapes, sports and neighborhood traditions that make summer in NYC special.
Here are a few ways to make the most of it before fall takes over.
Celebrate Caribbean Culture in Brooklyn
One of New York’s biggest Labor Day traditions returns to Eastern Parkway on September 7. The West Indian American Day Carnival brings Brooklyn to life with elaborate costumes, Caribbean food, steel-pan music, dancing and colorful floats.
The celebration is the culmination of several days of Caribbean Carnival festivities and remains one of the city’s signature end-of-summer events.
Catch the US Open in Queens
Summer isn’t complete without tennis in Flushing Meadows. The US Open continues through September 13, putting some of the world’s best players on the courts at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
Even without a ticket to Arthur Ashe Stadium, the atmosphere surrounding the tournament makes Queens one of the most exciting places to be as August gives way to September.
Take One More Beach Day
Don’t pack away the beach bag just yet. NYC’s beach season extends beyond Labor Day this year, giving New Yorkers another chance to head for Rockaway Beach, Coney Island or another city shoreline.
Grab a towel, pick up something along the boardwalk and enjoy an afternoon by the water while summer weather is still hanging around.
Spend a Day on Governors Island
A short ferry ride can make the city feel surprisingly far away. Governors Island is perfect for biking, picnicking, walking along the waterfront or simply finding a patch of grass with a skyline view. Extended summer hours continue through Labor Day weekend, making this a great time for one final summer visit.
Eat Outside While You Still Can
Finally, make time for the simplest summer tradition: eating outdoors. Visit Smorgasburg, grab dinner at a sidewalk café, plan a picnic in Central Park or find a rooftop for sunset drinks.
Fall in New York has plenty to look forward to. But there’s no reason to rush it.
Labor Day week is summer’s encore — enjoy it while it lasts.