Lincoln Center's Summer for the City Festival Returns With Over 200 Free Events

Lincoln Center's Summer for the City festival is returning for its fourth season, offering over 200 performances and events—most of them free or pay-what-you-wish—spanning genres such as dance, opera, theater, classical music, comedy, and pop. The festival, running from June 11 through August 9, aims to reflect New York City's cultural diversity, with highlights including premieres by the American Modern Opera Company, a theatrical retelling of the Mahabharata, and a week-long celebration of Brazilian culture featuring acclaimed artists like Lenine and Os Mutantes. The main plaza will again be transformed into a vibrant dance floor under a giant disco ball, while outdoor and indoor spaces will be creatively designed around the theme of birds, symbolizing imagination and community. Signature series include the BAAND Together dance festival, featuring top New York dance companies, and a new music series curated by Nadia Sirota. Lincoln Center leaders emphasize that the festival is designed to welcome new audiences and celebrate the global crossroads that New York represents. Last year's festival drew over 440,000 attendees, underscoring its growing appeal across the city.