Picks Of The Week: August 27-September 1

Take the tots out into the city this week! Let off some mid-week steam at an ¡Arriba! dance party on the High Line, then gear up for some big Labor Day weekend festivals like the New York Caribbean Carnival, a cultural celebration with specific family events, or the NYC Unicycle Festival, a tricks-filled and fun-riddled celebration of all things with one wheel! Finally, close out the week with a tugboat parade on the Hudson and a great family concert from the popular band Hot Peas n’ Butter.

Wednesday, August 27

 ¡Arriba! Dance Parties
The High Line
7pm-9pm
All ages
¡Arriba! nights transform the High Line into a lively dance party at sunset! Join New York City’s best Latin bands in dancing the night away, enjoying seasonal treats from vendors, and seeing the High Line under the stars. This month’s celebration is inspired by the guajiro musical rhythms of Cuba. Free

Thursday, August 28-Monday, September 1

New York Caribbean Carnival
The Brooklyn Museum
Various times
All ages
In order to promote West Indian culture, tradition, history, and art, the New York Caribbean Carnival is hosting special events all weekend long. Wonderful family friendly offerings include the Stay In School – Youth Fest/College Fair on Friday, August 29th, which showcases talented performances and encourages little ones to stay in school. Don’t miss the Kiddies Carnival Parade, an all-day celebration that marches through Crown Heights, on Saturday, August 30th! Free

Friday, August 29-Sunday, August 31

NYC Unifest
Various locations
Various times
All ages
Join hundreds of unicyclists for three days of one-wheeled madness! Enjoy fun activities like a 13-mile unicycle ride across Brooklyn, a One Wheel stage show, racing, competitions, unicycle sports like basketball and hockey, and opportunities for your family to try your hand at unicycle riding! Free

Sunday, August 31

22nd Annual Great North River Tugboat Race & Competition
Pier 84
10am-2pm
All ages
Come on out to Pier 84 in celebration of NYC’s tugboats! There will be a boat parade and race,  nose-to-nose pushing contests and a line competition. For those curious about the history of these sturdy ships, check out the tugboat exhibits. Be sure not to miss the spinach eating contest! Free

Kid/Around with Hot Peas n’ Butter
South Street Seaport
2pm-4pm
All Ages
Bring the little ones to a stellar concert by the popular Hot Peas n’ Butter! This unique band creates and performs special multicultural music just for kids, and have had music videos featured on Nick Jr.!  Free