Share

Summer at Hudson Yards: Your Ultimate Guide to Backyard 2026

Visit Hudson Yards this summer for a robust lineup of free events, live music, experiences, and entertainment for the whole family.

What is Backyard at Hudson Yards? 

Backyard at Hudson Yards Presented by Wells Fargo is a FREE outdoor programming and entertainment series running May through October in the Public Square and Gardens at Hudson Yards. Expect everything from live concerts and sports watch parties to family-fun activities, fitness and wellness sessions, seasonal pop-ups, and partner-led events. 

In this guide, we'll break down the can't-miss highlights, family favorites, and simple tips to help plan your dayso you can spend less time scrolling and more time enjoying everything the city has to offer. 

Tip from your HY Insider

We are... Try this!
Traveling with young kids. Mozart for Munchkinz
Here for a girls' trip. Dance Cardio with ALO
Looking for the 'wow' factor. LIVE! Concerts at the Wells Fargo Stage
Catching the big game. The Big Screen

Paul Russell perfroming on stage at Hudson Yards
crowd watching a moive at Hudson Yards

What Events Are Happening? The Backyard Schedule

There's a full roster of concerts, movies, fitness classes, soccer clinics, and more waiting for you on New York City's West Side. 

The Big Screen: Sports Watch Parties, Tournaments, and Events

Daily from May through October, the Public Square and Gardens transforms into an open-air viewing experience featuring our 30-foot Big Screen. Watch the world's most anticipated sporting events, including the Indy 500, Belmont Stakes, Tony Awards, playoff basketball, the WNBA All-Star Game, SailGP, the US Open, NFL Kickoff, Rugby League, and moreall in the heart of Hudson Yards.

people watch golf at a Big Screen Watch Party
group of fans watching a sports game at HY

Power Hour: For Mind & Body 

Power Hour is designed to support intentional movement for both body and mind. Explore these free wellness series throughout the season. 

Dance Cardio with ALO 

Join studio instructor Sarah Wolff on May 12 and 26 and June 9 and 23 from 8-9 AM in the Public Square and Gardens for an outdoor dance cardio class designed to energize and uplift. After class, keep the glow going with surprise and delights at ALO on Level 2 of The Shops. 

RSVP to secure your spot.

STORYfest with Reese's Book Club 

Mark your calendar for STORYfest with Reese Witherspoon's Book Club, coming to Hudson Yards from 5:30–8:30 PM on June 16, July 21, August 18, and a to-be-announced date in September. This interactive series will feature author conversations, community gatherings, and exclusive surprises. 

RSVP link coming soon.

CityPickle 

Pickleball is America's fastest-growing sport, and New York City has caught paddle fever. Players of all skill levels are invited to take advantage of free court time throughout the summer from 12–7 PM at 10 Hudson Yards

Free kids' clinics will also be offered every Saturday in August. Bring the kids out to burn off some energy, get some sun, and discover a fun new sport the whole family can enjoy together. 

RSVP link coming soon. Registration opens one week in advance of play time.

Tip from Hudson Yards: Wells Fargo customers receive complimentary paddle rentals and access to a dedicated daily reservation from 6–7 PM. Learn more

two people playing pickleball
people doing a dance cardio workout class in front of Vessel

LIVE! Concerts at the Wells Fargo Stage

Experience the energy of live music with a free concert series presented by Wells Fargo, with official sponsor Mastercard and supporting sponsor Champagne Pommery, programmed by United Talent Agency, featuring chart-topping artists. Doors open at 5 PM in the Public Square and Gardens, with opening acts taking the stage at 6 PM followed by headlining performances at 7 PM.

Tip from Hudson Yards: Wells Fargo and Mastercard customers have access to exclusive viewing areas during LIVE! Concerts at the Wells Fargo Stage. Learn more.

Family Fun at Hudson Yards 

You don't have to spend big to make big summer memories in New York City. All summer long, Backyard has family-friendly activities and programming available for children of all ages. 

Spring Family Day 

Celebrate 100 years of Parents with a free, action-packed day of family-friendly activities on Saturday, May 16 from 11 AM – 4 PM at Hudson Yards. Kids can sing and dance at a KIDZ BOP dance party, enjoy a live magic show, experience a special Mozart for Munchkinz concert, get creative with arts and crafts with Vivvi, and more. 

RSVP encouraged.

Mozart for Munchkinz

Held on the third Saturday of each month from May through October, Mozart for Munchkinz invites kids to move, dance, and play alongside world-class musicians. Taking place from 11 AM – 12 PM in the Public Square and Gardens, each concert features a mix of classical, jazz, and global sounds for curious listeners of all ages. See the full schedule and themes of each performance here

RSVP encouraged.

Soccer Clinics with Chelsea Piers 

Young soccer stars, and stars to-be, can build confidence and develop fundamental soccer skills during free clinics hosted by Chelsea Piers this summer on July 11, 12, 18, and 19 from 10–11 AM in the Public Square and Gardens. Clinics will focus on dribbling, passing, shooting, and most importantly, having fun!

RSVP link coming soon

Carnegie Hall Citywide Film Series 

On May 30 from 11 AM – 1 PM, Carnegie Hall Citywide brings Beauty and the Beast to Hudson Yards with a live interactive performance introducing the musical themes and storytelling behind the film. After the performance, sit back, relax, and enjoy the full movie screening on the Big Screen. 

Mozart for Munchkins peformance at Hudson Yards
young boy playing soccer

Backyard Bites

Keep the energy levels high, cool off, or fuel up with Backyard Bites all season long. From 11 AM – 7 PM daily, weather permitting, several of your Hudson Yards favorites will be serving up signature treats and refreshments.

More to Explore in Hudson Yards

We're a four-season city, but summer has our heart. From exploring the iconic Vessel and sipping champagne at the top of Edge, to shopping fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands all in one convenient location, Hudson Yards has something for everyone. Plan your summer visit today and discover what's waiting for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the Wells Fargo Stage and Big Screen located?

Both the Wells Fargo Stage and Big Screen are located in the Public Square and Gardens at Hudson Yards. Get directions on getting here. 

Why do I need to RSVP is the events are free?

RSVPing helps us plan accordingly for attendance and ensure the best possible experience for all guests. It also allows our team to preapre staffing, activities, and event operations safely and efficiently. 

REDISCOVER THE NEW HEART OF NEW YORK TODAY

Enjoy unique shopping, dining and experiences to explore. Stay connected and follow @HudsonYards for the latest updates. 

Stay In The Know