What to Do in New York City on July 23, 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Free and Ticketed Events

NEW YORK — July 23, 2026. Thursday in New York City brings a full lineup of summer experiences, ranging from free outdoor performances in Midtown Manhattan to Broadway showcases, major arena concerts, and premier dining options across the city.

The editorial team at Midtown Tribune has verified and compiled a complete guide to the top events taking place today.

Free Outdoor Events and Manhattan Parks

Bryant Park (Midtown)

• Broadway in Bryant Park (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM): The highlight of daytime Midtown. Enjoy a free outdoor performance featuring cast members from hit shows including “& Juliet,” “Hadestown,” “Just in Time,” “Maybe Happy Ending,” “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” and “The Lost Boys,” alongside a pre-show by AMDA College. Lawn seating opens at 11:00 AM for lunch and viewing.
• Piano in Bryant Park (12:30 PM – 2:30 PM): Live ragtime, stride, and jazz performances on the Upper Terrace.

Riverside Park (Summer on the Hudson)

• Art in the Park (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Interactive arts workshops for children at Camel Playground.
• Children’s Performance Series (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM): A family-friendly music and storytelling performance by Joanie Leeds at Pier I.
• Theater by the Water (6:30 PM – 8:30 PM): Hudson Classical Theater Company presents a free performance of “The Dancing Men,” a mystery adapted from Sherlock Holmes, at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument.

Lincoln Center — Summer for the City

• Chinese Arts Week: Dance Encounters (6:00 PM): Free open-air dance performance by Shen Wei Dance Arts featuring “MindScape” at Hearst Plaza.
• Family Program: Interactive storytelling and theater with “Storytime With Grace Chang” at David Geffen Hall at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

Live Music and Major Concerts (Ticketed)

• Bon Jovi — Forever Tour at Madison Square Garden (7:30 PM): The legendary rock band performs live at MSG in Midtown Manhattan.
• Greensky Bluegrass at The Rooftop at Pier 17 (7:00 PM): Outdoor live music overlooking the East River and Brooklyn Bridge.
• Kurt Vile & The Violators at Brooklyn Paramount (7:00 PM): Indie rock performance in Brooklyn.

Schedule Notice: The Yeat performance originally listed for July 23 at Central Park SummerStage has been rescheduled to September 18, 2026.

Dining: NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2026

NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2026 is currently underway (running through August 16). Participating restaurants across Midtown and greater Manhattan are offering fixed-price (prix fixe) lunch and dinner menus, providing access to top dining locations at reduced rates.

Essential Visitor Information

1. Weather: Mid-summer temperatures require staying hydrated, using sun protection, and wearing comfortable walking shoes.
2. Arrival: For non-ticketed events at Bryant Park and Lincoln Center, early arrival is advised to secure seating.