Each summer, HBO sponsors classic films in Bryant park projected onto a screen on the fountain terrace. Thousands of people come to the park to picnic and relax under the stars while enjoying the featured movie. Guests can venture into the park and find a spot and set themselves up with a picnic dinner prior to the movie, which begins at dusk. Most films are rated G so they are appropriate for the entire family. Directions to the park, areas where the movies can be viewed and updated show times can be found on the Bryant Park Corporation's website (bryantpark.org).
Bryant Park features the Piano in the Park program on select weekdays throughout the summer months, generally in the early or late afternoon. Some of the best pianists from all over New York, including Deanna Witkowski, Terry Waldo and Todd Robbins, come to Bryant Park to play for visitors and residents. The pianist plays at the upper terrace, which overlooks the lawn and can be accessed by climbing the grand staircases from the lawn level. Artists play for two hours in the early afternoon and occasionally in the later afternoons. Visit the Bryant Park Corp.'s website for more information on show times, dates and current artists.
The Manhattan Fencing Center offers free fencing classes in Bryant Park beginning in April through the summer. The classes are offered for one hour every Wednesday afternoon during the summer months, as of the time of publication. Equipment is provided and beginner lessons are taught by masters from the Manhattan Fencing Center. The lessons are taught at Fifth Avenue Terrace at 41st Street. To reserve a spot, visit the Bryant Park Corp.'s website.
A number of authors and poets that cater to all ages visit the park each summer and discuss their work at the Bryant Park Reading Room. Authors read, discuss and answer questions on select days and times throughout the summer. Activities such as games and arts and crafts projects are included with children's lessons, so be sure to check the calendar so you know what types of items to bring along with you.
Yoga instructors from Lululemon Athletica provide hour-long yoga instructions on Tuesdays and Thursdays for all levels in the morning and evening at Bryant Park throughout the summer. Mats are provided for those who are interested in learning yoga. Yoga classes are taught either on the upper terrace or on the lawn so check the schedule to see exactly where each class is taught. Visit the Bryant Park Corp.'s website for the latest schedule, including location and for any cancellations due to acclimate weather or other events.
