Enjoy an evening of classical music and fireworks under the stars with the NY Phil.
The New York Philharmonic concert in Central Park is an eagerly anticipated annual event that draws music lovers from all over the city.
2025 Event Details
Wednesday, June 4th: Central Park at 8:00 PM
See the current year's concert details on our event page.
Tip: Many people like to picnic while enjoying the show. More tips below.
About
For over five decades, the world-renowned orchestra has graced the Great Lawn with free performances that showcase the best of classical music. The event is a highlight of the summer season in New York City and is widely enjoyed by all.
With its beautiful setting, exceptional music, and vibrant atmosphere, the New York Philharmonic Concert in Central Park is an unforgettable experience which brings joy and cultural enrichment to thousands of people every year.
Tips for a Great Experience
SEATING: For the best seats, arrive a couple of hours before the start of the show! The Great Lawn is open all day. To hear the music most clearly, set up your picnic near a speaker (there are many spread throughout the Great Lawn).
ACCESSIBILITY: YAI will be operating an accessibility section. Please call (212) 273-6181 or email ulli.fenninger@yai.org for details.
WHAT TO BRING
Seating: Beach chairs that lie low to the ground and picnic blankets are permitted. Standard lawn-chairs are not.
Pets: Pets must be on a leash.
Bag Policy: You may bring small, clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags (12"x12"x6" max size), non-clear clutch/purse/fanny pack no larger than 4.5" x 6.5".
Order a Picnic Ahead of Time: Our picnic bags include a variety of gourmet sandwiches, snacks, and drinks packed in a reusable tote. Order online and pick up on Central Park West at 100th Street.
PROHIBITED ITEMS & ACTIONS
Alcohol, audio or video recording equipment, bicycles or scooters, blankets, Camelbaks, chains/chain wallets, cameras larger than point-and-shoot (if you can remove the lens, don’t bring it), chairs, coolers, drones, fireworks, flags, frisbees, glass/metal containers, illegal drugs/paraphernalia, laser pens or similar focused light, light sticks, musical instruments, selfie sticks, skateboards, sports balls, tents, tripods, umbrellas, unlicensed vending of any kind, water squirt guns, nor weapons; no smoking of any kind is permitted.
LOCATION
The Great Lawn is located mid-park from 79th to 85th Streets. Map This Location
West Side: Enter at West 81st or 86th Streets
East Side: Enter at East 79th or 85th Streets
GETTING THERE BY SUBWAY
The closest subway stops to the Great Lawn are:
- B,C train at West 81st Street or West 86th Street
- 1 train at West 79th Street or West 86th Street
- 4, 5, 6 train at East 86th Street
RESTROOMS: The nearest restrooms are located behind the Delacorte Theatre, near the southwest corner of the Great Lawn. Portable restrooms will also be set up by the Parks Department around the perimeter of the Great Lawn.
FIREWORKS will be displayed in Central Park after the performance.
TRASH: Carry in, carry out! Please take all of your trash with you when you leave the Great Lawn and place it in a trash receptacle on your way out of the park.
Exiting: Please stay on the paths and do not trample plantings in an attempt to exit the park faster! Instead, find your way to the park's east or west drive for a wider path and faster route out of the park.