August is one of the best times for families to introduce children to the magic of Broadway without stretching the entertainment budget. From free outdoor performances to a special night where kids can attend Broadway shows at no cost with a paying adult, there are several ways to enjoy live theater in New York City this month.
Here are the top Broadway events families should add to their August calendar.
© Getty ImagesBroadway in Bryant Park Returns With Free Performances
If your child loves musical theater or is simply curious about Broadway, Broadway in Bryant Park is the easiest way to experience live performances for free.
Every Thursday through August 13, Broadway casts perform some of their biggest songs during lunchtime concerts on the Bryant Park lawn. The event is completely free and open to the public, making it perfect for families visiting New York or local parents looking for a fun summer outing.
August 2026 schedule
Thursday, August 13
Featured performances include:
- The Lost Boys
- Little Shop of Horrors
- MJ
- Operation Mincemeat
- Schmigadoon!
- The Outsiders
- Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
Families are encouraged to arrive early, bring a picnic blanket, and pack lunch since seating on the lawn fills quickly.
Kids' Night on Broadway Offers Free Tickets
One of Broadway's biggest family events returns on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.
© Getty ImagesDuring Kids' Night on Broadway, children ages 18 and under receive a free Broadway ticket when accompanied by a full-paying adult at participating shows. The annual program also includes family-friendly restaurant deals and special activities around Times Square.
This promotion makes it much easier for families to experience Broadway together while cutting ticket costs nearly in half.
Family-Friendly Broadway Shows Participating
While the complete list of participating productions varies, Broadway Direct highlights several family-friendly favorites for Kids' Night on Broadway, including productions such as:
© Bruce Glikas/WireImage- Hamilton
- The Lion King
- Wicked
Additional participating musicals and plays are announced through the official program.
Parents should reserve tickets early because this event is one of Broadway's most popular annual promotions.
August Is Great for First-Time Theatergoers
Outdoor concerts are a relaxed way to introduce younger children to Broadway before purchasing theater tickets.
Kids can hear live performances from professional casts without worrying about sitting quietly through a full-length musical. If they enjoy the experience, families can plan a complete Broadway outing later in the month during Kids' Night on Broadway.
© Corbis via Getty ImagesFor older children and teens, the free Bryant Park concerts also offer a chance to discover newer musicals before choosing which show they'd like to see.
Tips for Families
To make the most of these free Broadway events:
- Arrive at Bryant Park at least 30 to 45 minutes early for the best lawn seating.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a picnic blanket.
- Check weather forecasts before heading out, since concerts are outdoors.
- Purchase Kids' Night on Broadway tickets as soon as they become available because popular shows can sell out quickly.
Make Broadway Affordable This Summer
Broadway is often considered a splurge, but August offers families two excellent opportunities to enjoy world-class theater for little or no cost.
© Getty ImagesWhether you're singing along during a free Bryant Park performance or taking advantage of Kids' Night on Broadway's complimentary child tickets, August 2026 is an ideal time to introduce young audiences to live theater.
