Now that we’re in the middle of summer in New York City, you might be looking for some cool and unique things to do so you can enjoy the warm weather and everything this great city has to offer. Since some of the days are incredibly hot and slightly uncomfortable to be out in, there are tons of options that include things to do inside to enjoy the air conditioning, too. One of my favorite details of the city in the summer is that the population seems to lighten up a bit. With so many people taking their family vacations during this time of the year, I’ve found that general errands are easier to run because there are simply less people around. While I of courses love the city and all the amazing people in it, it’s still amazing to get a break from the congestion from time to time.

If you’re practicing your English here in New York City, luckily these activities will not only let you exercise what you already know, but it will put you to the test to put those learned skills to use. Whether it’s reading and writing or even speaking with new people, you might be surprised how easily it comes to you when you’re outside the classroom – mainly because you’re having fun in the Big Apple! So if you’re ready to put your English skills to use this July, here are a few ways you can do so right here in New York City.

1. Full Moon Festival, Governors Island, July 8

For something that obviously doesn’t come around all the time, this will be a great activity to grab a bunch of your friends and experience a night out to feel a little superstitious. While this activity costs a bit of cash (tickets start at $50), it’ll be worth it with the amazing live musical acts, breathtaking art shows, and of course, incredible food. Since there are so many legends and myths that revolve around the full moon, bring your favorite story and ask other festival-goers about their favorite full moon tale. Before you know it, you’ll be speaking English fluently with total strangers in no time!

2. NYC Restaurant Week, various locations, July 24-August 18

Don’t be fooled by the title of this event—it’s become so popular in New York City that Restaurant Week actually spans three weeks. Be sure to check out the restaurants that are participating, because this is the best time to try out eateries that may otherwise be a bit outside of your budget. This three-week event means that participating restaurants offer multi-course meals for discounted prices to achieve higher business rates and hopefully attract new diners. Check out the menus online so you can practice your English reading, and by the time you make it to the restaurant, you can feel confident in what you order and you’ll be prepared to ask any questions you may have.

3. Panorama Festival, Randall’s Island Park, July 28-30

If you’re a music buff like me, this festival is definitely up your alley. Since this event takes place over the whole weekend, you have the opportunity to figure out your itinerary so you can be sure you see your favorites, plan out your culinary stops, and figure out the best way to get the most out of your tickets. With growing popularity, this festival is quickly becoming one of the hottest festivals for established and up-and-coming artists. Brush up on you English by learning new music from artists you haven’t heard of before, and then wham! You know new music AND English! Hope your singing voice is okay!

Even though so many people take their annual family vacations during the summer, the city will still be bouncing with high energy and excitement over the longer days and warmer weather. Even on those hot and unbearable days, you can count on New York City to offer you limitless activities. And don’t fret about your English skills if you’re still trying to perfect them—as I continue to say in each post: New York City is a huge melting pot with thousands of people speaking all different languages. We New Yorkers are patient and welcoming, so feel free to ask for help if you need it. But if you feel confident, give your English skills a shot and see what happens. Nothing bad can happen, and ultimately, you’re still in the greatest city in the world!