NYC has several free, family-friendly pop-ups happening before summer officially ends
Some of these events are especially good for kids, while others are perfect for nostalgic parents
There are interactive experiences, giveaways, games, and plenty of photo ops
One bonus pick is a must for anime-loving kids
Most of these events are happening over the next two weekends
Psst… Check Out Labor Day Weekend in NYC: Fun Things to Do with Your Family
Summer’s winding down, but NYC isn’t slowing down — there’s a solid stretch of free (and mostly free) family-friendly pop-ups happening around the city over the next couple of weekends.
I’m past the point of waiting in line around the city for things I’m only mildly interested in, but I’ll still do it when one of my kids becomes super enthused about something. The longest wait wasn’t even for a pop-up; it was five hours in line for Record Store Day at Rough Trade, back when it was still in Williamsburg. We came away with some pretty awesome finds, though, and still reminisce about it.
Luckily, most pop-ups don’t take nearly that long. Here are a few worth dragging the kids out for before we officially say goodbye to summer.
The NYC Pop-Ups Worth Dragging the Kids To
Neopets in Neo York
Aug. 21–23, all day | Free | 131 Greene St., SoHo
For the parents who grew up feeding virtual pets, this one’s for you (and now your kids, too). Neopets is throwing its first-ever pop-up, and it’s packed: a Crayola mural wall, a Switch gaming station, tarot readings, claw machines, a trading post for swapping merch, and an artist meet-and-greet.
The first 500 people through the door each day get an exclusive in-game avatar. Show up in Neopets gear or cosplay, though, and you’ll get one too — that offer has no daily cap and runs all weekend.
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Zappos Back-to-School Pop-Up
Aug. 21–23, 11 am–6 pm | 21 Greene St., SoHo
Still knocking out back-to-school shopping? Zappos is making it a little more fun with a multi-day pop-up featuring new styles and personalization stations. There’s a Zappy mascot making appearances, free snacks from Cadootz, and giveaways throughout. Each day brings something different, like free embroidery on Primary gear Friday, L.L.Bean embroidery Saturday, and build-your-own shoe or backpack charms Sunday. And if you spend over $75, you’ll walk out with a free Hydrojug water bottle.
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Dearfoams Pop-Up for NYU Move-In Weekend
Aug. 28–30 | Moxy East Village, 112 E. 11th St.
Aptly timed for NYU’s move-in weekend, Dearfoams is setting up shop in the East Village with cozy dorm essentials. It’s open to any family looking to shop, not just NYU students. There’s a slipper-personalization station with a local artist, plus a spin-to-win game for Fireside swag and free slippers. Free tote bags come with purchase while supplies last. It’s geared toward college families settling in and also worth remembering if (gasp!), you’re thinking ahead to holiday gifts, already.
People using Impulse, an interactive seesaw exhibit, at Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan in NYC.
Bonus: Impulse at Herald Square
Through Sept. 3, 9 am–9 pm | Free | Broadway between 35th & 36th St.
This isn’t technically a pop-up, but it is temporary and really worth taking a day to experience it before it’s gone. Eight giant illuminated seesaws light up and play music when kids (or adults) hop on. It’s been running since July and sticks around through Labor Day weekend, so there’s still time to swing by. It’s completely free.
Psst… Check Out 10 Fun Things to Do in NYC Before Summer Ends (That Your Kids Will Remember)
