Best Things to Do in Forest Hills, NY This August:

August in Forest Hills, New York, is the peak of the summer season, where the neighborhood transforms into a vibrant hub for world-class entertainment, professional sports, and community celebrations. Known for its lush Tudor-style architecture and historic charm, Forest Hills offers a unique pace of life that blends suburban tranquility with urban energy. As the temperature rises, the area becomes the focal point of the Queens cultural scene, drawing visitors from across the five boroughs for its legendary concert series and the onset of the world's most famous tennis tournament.

Whether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, this August 2026 guide highlights the must-attend events that define the neighborhood. From the iconic Forest Hills Stadium, which has hosted legends from The Beatles to Barbra Streisand, to the bustling vendors along Austin Street, there is no shortage of ways to soak up the sun and enjoy the local atmosphere. Get ready to experience the best of Queens this month with our curated list of verified events and activities.

Forest Hills Stadium continues its blockbuster summer season with a diverse lineup of performers throughout August. The venue, nestled within the private West Side Tennis Club, offers an open-air experience unlike any other in New York City. On Friday, August 14, 2026, electronic music heavyweights Zeds Dead will take the stage, accompanied by ALLEYCVT, Neumonic, and a special back-to-back set by Mikayli and isded. Doors open at 5:00 PM for a night of high-energy bass and visual spectacle.

On Saturday, August 15, the stadium welcomes multi-talented artist Jon Batiste. The 'World Music Radio' creator will be joined by a stellar supporting cast including Cautious Clay, Ingrid Silva, Matteo Bocelli, and Nick Waterhouse. This all-ages show promises to be a masterclass in jazz, soul, and pop fusion, starting with doors at 5:30 PM. For those who prefer a multi-day residency, the psychedelic rock powerhouse King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard will perform three consecutive nights from August 20 to August 22, each featuring different openers like Die Spitz and Moktar.

Closing out the month, country superstars Zac Brown Band bring their soulful harmonies to the stadium for two nights on August 27 and 28, featuring special guest Grace Potter. Finally, on Saturday, August 29, the Australian electronic duo Empire of the Sun returns to Queens for their 'Ask That God: Afterlife' tour, supported by Polo & Pan and Midnight Generation. This performance is set to be a highlight for synth-pop fans across the city.

The 10th Annual Festival of Cinema NYC returns to Forest Hills from August 7 through August 16, 2026. This independent film festival takes over the historic Regal UA Midway theater and several other neighborhood venues, including the Forest Hills Library. The festival spotlights over 100 independent films, ranging from shorts to full-length features, across all genres. Attendees can participate in filmmaker Q&A sessions, workshops, and industry panels designed to connect emerging artists with professionals.

On Saturday, August 8, the neighborhood streets will be even more crowded than usual for the Forest Hills Summer Jam. This massive street fair runs along 71st/Continental Avenue between Queens Boulevard and Austin Street. Expect a wide array of local food vendors, artisan crafts, and live entertainment in one of the community's most walkable commercial corridors. This is a prime opportunity to support small businesses while enjoying a classic New York street festival atmosphere.

The Forest Hills Greenmarket remains a staple of the neighborhood, operating every Sunday from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM in front of the Forest Hills Post Office at 70th Avenue and Queens Boulevard. Throughout August (Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30), visitors can find fresh, locally-grown produce, wild-caught seafood from American Pride Seafood, artisanal breads from Bread Alone, and unique items like lavender honey. The market also features frequent cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities.

Just a short walk or train ride away in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Queens Night Market continues its 2026 summer season every Saturday night until August 22. Located behind the New York Hall of Science, this open-air market features over 100 vendors selling affordable global street food—with most bites capped at very accessible prices. It is a true celebration of the borough's diversity, featuring everything from Burmese palata to Cameroonian jollof rice and Colombian arepas.

The eyes of the sports world turn to Queens at the end of the month for the 2026 US Open Tennis Championships. While the main draw matches begin on Sunday, August 30, the excitement starts early with US Open Fan Week beginning Sunday, August 23. During Fan Week, the grounds at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center are open to the public for free, allowing fans to watch the qualifying tournament and see top-seeded players practice on the outer courts. It is a fantastic way to experience the energy of a Grand Slam without the steep ticket prices of the later rounds.

Also happening near Forest Hills on August 8 and 9 is the 36th Annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival in New York. Held at Meadow Lake in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, this event is one of the largest multicultural festivals in the United States. Teams from across the globe compete in colorful dragon boats, while spectators enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and an extensive food court featuring Asian specialties. Admission to the festival is free, and it runs from 9:00 AM to early evening both days.

For families with children, the City Parks Foundation's PuppetMobile will be touring Queens this August with a fresh production of 'Pinocchio and Gepetto’s Big Apple Adventure.' Local performances include dates at various parks around the borough on August 7, 8, 19, and 22. These free outdoor shows are designed to entertain kids of all ages with professional puppetry and an engaging, modern storyline set right here in New York City.

After a long day exploring the local markets or cheering at the stadium, adults 21 and over can elevate their summer experience with Silly Nice products. Whether you're unwinding at home or preparing for a weekend picnic at MacDonald Park, Silly Nice offers a range of high-quality cannabis products available at licensed dispensaries in the area. You can find our premium offerings at local favorites like Curaleaf Queens, conveniently located to serve the Forest Hills and Rego Park communities.

To find the nearest location carrying our latest lineup, simply use the Silly Nice store locator. As always, we encourage our community to consume responsibly and in accordance with all New York state laws. Make sure to keep your use discreet and private, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone in the neighborhood.

Forest Hills in August 2026 is truly a destination of its own. Between the roar of the crowd at Forest Hills Stadium and the international flair of the US Open, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to bookmark this guide and share it with your neighbors to make the most of this spectacular month in Queens.

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