Now that we’re (finally) into the month of June and the promise of cooperative weather, you might feel anticipation for being outside and enjoying all of the great things that New York City has to offer in the summer. June is still pretty mild, so you won’t have to worry about the dog days of summer just yet, so I recommend still checking out the forecast before heading outside for these events in June. Don’t forget that if you can’t get tickets to the below events, there are tons of free parks and fairs that you can attend right here in the Big Apple.
Since you’re also practicing your English, it’s wise to look up some easy English phrases before heading out to your select activity so you can interact with other New Yorkers easily and fluently. Be sure to familiarize yourself with some social phrases, like, “What’s your favorite booth here?” or “How did you find out about this festival?” Before you know it, you’ll be holding a full conversation in English AND making new friends. Enjoy the start to summer!
- Book Expo America, Friday, June 1, Javits Center
If reading or writing is a passion of yours, this experience is a must-see while you’re in New York City. Aspiring authors, editors, booksellers, publishers, literary agents, and literary professionals all congregate to this location for an exciting gathering filled with passionate readers. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the publishing industry or simply want to mingle with other passionate readers, Book Expo America (BEA) is the perfect opportunity to not only update yourself on what’s going on in the industry, but this conference also provides you the chance to interact with others in attendance. Whether you’re hoping to enhance your English speaking skills or your reading skills, BEA is a great opportunity to practice both.
- Northside Festival, Wednesday, June 6 – Sunday, June 10, Williamsburg
Nothing says the kick-off to summer like a great outdoor musical event. For the tenth year, Northside Festival comes to Williamsburg with tons of concerts, movie screenings, and many other activities for five whole days. For all the best up-and-coming musical acts, Northside Festival brings all the new music to you. Check out their lineup, see if you recognize any of the acts, and if you don’t, stream their music to get a feel for their style. By learning their lyrics and background, you can hit Northside with confidence as a new fan and interact with other mutual fans. Put your English skills to practice by asking those around you about their favorite songs and what else they’ve experienced at the festival. You’ll be a musical (and English speaking) pro in no time!
- Coney Island Mermaid Parade, Saturday, June 16, Coney Island
Talk about something different, for sure! For the 36th year, you can watch dozens of people dressed up like mermaids and mermen, celebrating all things undersea. For those that come to watch the parade, you can dress up as your favorite mermaid or merman or in general nautical attire and really get in the mood. The parade starts at Surf Avenue and West 21st Street and ends at Steeplechase Plaza; be sure to get there before 11 am to ensure a good spot so you can see everything to the best of your ability. As with any kind of parade, this is a great opportunity for you to practice your English with other mermaid enthusiasts. Ask those around you where they’re from, how they heard about the parade, and if they suggest any other great sites. New Yorkers love the chance to talk about all the other cool things they’ve seen, so don’t be shy!
Even if none of these activities strike your fancy for this month, there are so many other options for you to take part in this month in New York City. Keep in mind that tons of people take their family vacations during the summer, so one of my favorite aspects of summer is that the city seems to lighten up a bit when it comes to population. So enjoy the lighter subway ways, the less congested traffic, and the overall feel of having more room to explore this great city that you can call home. Don’t forget your English skills so you can make friends along the way and dive into summer with plenty to do and many more friends!