Things to do in New York City in September and How You Can Put Your English to Use August 29, 2018

September is one of my favorite months of the year, no matter where I’m at. The heavy heat of the summer finally breaks, and there’s a comfortable breeze that seems to just relax me. I find that I spend a lot more time outdoors this month instead of couping myself indoors with air conditioning, so get ready for all the activities that New York City has to offer in September. Bring a jacket, since the weather is transitioning this month from lingering summer heat with cool autumn wind.

If you don’t know by now from previous posts, I’m a big proponent of practicing your English skills with those around you. New York City is one of the biggest cultural melting pots in the world, so it’s going to be incredibly easy to find those similar to you all around, and New Yorkers are always willing to help someone out, whether it’s helping with directions, suggesting places to go, or even aiding in reading English. Don’t be shy—you’re in the best place to be to put your English skills to use!

1. 29Rooms, Thursday, September 6 – Sunday, September 9 and Thursday, September 13 – Sunday, September 16, Brooklyn

If you’re into fashion at all, you know that September in New York City is quite an exciting time. The magazines are covered with the best in the best, designers push out their newest collections, and celebrities and models are just a bit easier to spot this time of year. This event is a huge one, and luckily, it’s a chance for tons of artists, brands, and even celebrities to showcase their seasonal favorites. Tickets are pretty reasonable, starting at $39 for general admission. Grab all your fashion-forward friends and head down to this Instagrammable location. You might learn a few new English words that have been put into hashtags—yet another way to practice your English via social media.

2. Vendy Awards, Saturday, September 22, Governer’s Island

I may be a bit biased about this event, as I went last year to help with the event, and even then it was still a blast. This occasion celebrates all the best street food (and drinks) that New York City has to offer with limitless sampling opportunities. From Jamaican and Indonesian food to cocktails and desserts, you’ll be sure to get all your taste buds satisfied. After a quick and scenic ferry ride from lower Manhattan, you can interact with tons of other event-goers. Be sure to ask them where they got that beer or their favorite truck so far so you can put your English skills to use. What’s even better is that since so many of the trucks are multi-cultural, this is your chance to perhaps help others with their English as well!

3. Queens County Fair, Saturday, September 22 – Sunday, September 23, Floral Park

As if I haven’t made it clear enough, fall is hands-down my favorite season of the year, so fall festivals just make the season even better. From hayrides to pie eating contests to live music, this annual fair has it all to fulfill your all your autumn-kickoff interests. The location is a bit out of the city, but it’s totally worth the trip to get your nature fix. Practice your English skills by interacting with other fair-goers and embrace your inner nature fan!

4. Free Summer Movies, all September, all NYC boroughs

One of my absolute favorite things to do in New York City is catch free movies in some of the coolest parks in the main boroughs. Doing this not only allows me to revisit some of my favorite movies, but it’s so amazing to be able to do so in some of the most iconic parks. This is a great activity (and free!) to do with friends or even for date night. And if you’re practicing your English, watching American movies is an easy (and quite mindless) way to put your skills to use.

September is the unofficial kick-off to fall, so pack up your swimsuits and unpack your light jackets – the lighter weather is such a treat in New York City after so many months of heavy heat. If you’re new to the English language, all these activities will put your skills to use by allowing you to interact with others while still having a blast in the best city in the world. Next month, get ready for even more adventures!