Han Christian Andersen Storytelling Center – Upper East Side
Saturdays, June 4-September 24 at 11am

Hans Christian Andersen Statue in Central Park

FREE
Since the mid-'50s, children have gathered at the bronze sculpture of the famous author to hear his tales as well as those of other writers. Performed by a dedicated group of storytellers, the stories go on rain or shine.

Ezra Jack Keats Story Hour – Prospect Lefferts Gardens
Saturdays, 
July 2-August 27 at 2pm

Imagination Playground in Prospect Park

FREE

This kid-lit-themed play spot in Prospect Park is the perfect setting for storytime. Tales are told under a statue of Peter and his dog, Willie, from Ezra Jack Keats’ classic book Whistle for Willie. Children can sit in Peter’s chair, pet Willie or lean against the boy reading his book as they listen to stories by Keats and other authors. Afterward, cool off at the playground's awesome bronze dragon fountain.

Summer Songs and Stories – Prospect Lefferts Gardens
Sundays, July 10-August 28
 at 2pm and 3pm

Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park 

FREE

Join storyteller and musician Tammy Hall as she performs tales from around the globe under the big tree. Following the story, check out the lovely old house, which regularly hosts events for families.

A Clearing in the Forest – Upper West Side
Every other Sunday, June 19-October 9 at 1pm


Peter Jay Sharp Children's Glade in Central Park
FREE
This eco-themed, family performance series showcases dance, music, art, puppetry and, occasionally, storytelling. The spoken word performances are on July 17, August 14 and September 25, but it's worth perusing the complete schedule to see what else is going on.

Tuesdays in the Sandbox – Upper East Side

Tuesdays at 4pm
Carl Schurz Park

FREE
The park's conservancy (the oldest community-based volunteer park association in NYC!), sponsors this annual music and storytelling series. The website doesn’t have the details up yet, but you can call 212-459-4455 for more info.  

Word for Word Kids – Midtown West

Tuesdays, June 28-August 2 at 10:30am and Saturdays, June 18-August 20 at noon
Bryant Park Reading Room
FREE
Don't let the name of the venue fool you. The Bryant Park Reading Room is actually an open-air library. This series features kid-sized furniture for listeners to lounge on, and stories starring Clifford the Big Red Dog and the Magic School Bus, as well as performances by musicians and magicians. Click here for the complete schedule, which includes readings for grown-ups at different times.

Flaubert Frog – Midtown West

Saturdays, June 18-August 20 at 1pm

Le Carrousel in Bryant Park
FREE
In another part of Bryant Park, a giant frogman named Flaubert (a.k.a. performer and writer Daniel Kitrosser) will be hopping around, telling stories, playing games and making kids laughs. A special Green Fingers Garden Craft follows every performance. In case of rain, Flaubert is canceled; hiding in his pond, we assume. 

Storytelling – Queens

Tuesday, July 14 at 10:30am in Crocheron Park
Tuesday, August 4 at 10:30am in Alley Pond Park
FREE
Kids can enjoy live storytelling and a fun craft project at these two Queens play spots.

The Story Museum – Staten Island

Thursdays, June 16, 23 and 30 at 11:30am
The Historical Museum in Historic Richmond Town
$3 for kids, free for adults.
Okay, this one is indoors and isn't quite free, but we couldn’t resist. Preschoolers can enjoy stories, crafts, music, dancing and singing in these jam-packed sessions. Call for reservations 718-351-1611 ext. 280.  

Sandbox Stories – Central Park
Monday-Thursday, July 11-August 19 at 2pm
FREE
Hear tall tales in 15 different Central Park playgrounds performed by professional storytellers, including the aforementioned Kitrosser (he gets around). This program alternates with Sandbox Music, another weekday entertainment series held in various Central Park play spots. The complete schedule has not yet been released. Call 212-860-1370 for more info.  

Zany Umbrella Circus – Citywide
Sunday, July 10 at 3pm at the SummerStage Main Stage in Central Park
Monday, July 11 at 10:30am in Haffen Park in the Bronx

Wednesday, July 13 at 10:30am in Seward Park in Manhattan
Thursday, July 14 at 10:30am -11:30am in Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx
This kooky troupe mixes storytelling with circus acts. You can catch these guys four times in two boroughs, courtesy of the SummerStage festival.

Stories in the Garden – the Bronx

Tuesdays, June 7-August 30
 at 11am
Wave Hill
FREE
The gorgeous 28-acre Bronx oasis hosts mystery readers who will share fantastic, nature-themed tales. Ideal for ages 3 and up, it only happens when Mother Nature cooperates.

For more seasonal happenings, check out our Summer Fun Guide.