GOVERNORS ISLAND — A host of eclectic festivals, performances and exhibits are on the way to Governors Island — where this year's public season kicks off on May 25.
New programming this summer includes a French festival in July that will feature vintage carnival rides and a carousel, as well as a World War II photography exhibit presented by The New York Historical Society, the Trust For Governors Island announced Monday.
The Brooklyn Public Library, New York Public Library, and Queens Library will also work with the Uni Project, New York City's portable outdoor reading room, to provide books, learning activities and children's programs throughout the summer on the island.
Also this year, Bike New York will offer classes where visitors can learn to ride and brush up on their bike skills.
The southern portion of the island will be closed this summer, including Picnic Point and much of the bike path around the island's perimeter, as construction continues on 30 acres of new park and public space.
But visitors will be able to get a view of the under-construction acres — which include plazas, a hammock-dotted forest, two ball fields and expansive lawns — from a large, elevated platform, the Trust said in a statement. Free hard-hat tours for the public will also be offered on some afternoons. More information about these tours will be posted on govisland.com.
A wide variety of favorite, longstanding events are also coming back for the May-to-September season, including the Jazz Age Lawn Party, FIGMENT art festival and mini golf course and the Unicycle Festival. The Lower Manhattan Cultural Council will run a series of exhibits and open artist studios throughout the summer. Visitors can also enjoy guided programs with the National Park Service, and explore the island’s Castle Williams and Fort Jay.
Governors Island is open Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays from May 25 to Sept. 29. For more details about the programming, visit the Trust for Governors Island's website.
