There are many reasons to love New York City in the start of the summer. For me, the start of summer seems to just put everyone in a great mood, which makes my daily commutes more tolerable, the interactions with my coworkers more pleasant, and the Vitamin D from all the sunshine just generally lifts my spirits overall. The temperatures aren’t super high just yet in June, so it’s still bearable to be outside. With kids being out of school, there’s also just a level of excitement in the air, all over the city. My advice for June: get outside as much as you can while the weather is still tolerable (before it gets too hot), and enjoy the sunshine!
While you’re out and about this month, the first official month of summer, be sure to think about ways you can put your English skills to use. Luckily, since this month tends to bring everyone out of their apartments and in the fresh air, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of opportunities to engage with other people. Here are a few things going on during the month of June for ideas on how you can not only have fun and take advantage of this amazing city but also put your English speaking skills to use.
- Governors Ball, Friday, May 31st – Sunday, June 2nd, Randalls Island Park
This is a pretty huge event that takes place every year, and it’s a pretty deal in New York City. As a three-day music festival, it can draw in thousands of people, so really think ahead if this is something you want to attend! While you’re there though, it’s a great experience to be around so many iconic musicians and all the other huge fans. For some unique English practice, look up some of the artists on the lineup for the event, and start learning their music. It’s a great way to not only learn more music and genres, but it’s a great way to learn some new English words and maybe you’ll even connect with other fellow fans while you’re there.
- Gay Pride, all of June (Gay Pride March is Sunday, June 30th)
If you haven’t noticed by now, New York City is one of the gay pride capitals of the world. Many people come to New York City just to experience the culture of openness and acceptance that the city has to offer for those that do not identify as heterosexual. Events all over the city will be held for the entire month of June to commemorate this movement, so you’ll be sure to see tons of rainbow symbols during this month. You can get involved by attending one of the many comedy shows, art exhibits, marches, and even the music festival held at Pier 97. So gather all of your supportive friends and take part in this really crucial, social movement. You can practice your English by sharing your support with members of the LGBTQ community and praising their bravery and pride.
- Shakespeare in the Park, through June 23rd, Central Park
This is another one of those New York City staples. Since the 1960s, this series produces free performances at the outdoor Delacorte Theater in Central Park. For the month of June, Much Ado About Nothing runs Tuesdays through Sundays at 8 pm. These events are wildly popular because not only are they outside in the summer night, but they’re free! On top of that, many noteworthy and iconic actors have taken part in these productions, so there’s almost always a great chance that you might experience a legendary performance! If you’re new to Shakespeare, this is a great chance for you to be exposed to the greatest playwright of our time. Or, you could read the play before watching it so you’ll get your English reading in as well as your English listening practice in. It’s a double win! P.S. Bring a blanket – the nights can still be pretty chilly in June!
Whether you’re looking for something low-key or something intense, you should know by now that New York City has everything to offer, no matter what you’re seeking. Also, don’t forget that the Big Apple is a huge melting pot, meaning that people from all over the world live in this great city, so there’s always an opportunity for you to put your English classroom skills to practice in the real world – and there’s no better teacher than the streets of one of the greatest cities in the world!