EVENTS
Free to the public, unless stated otherwise
Rockaway Refresh at B. 17th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 17th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Cleanup at Frank Charles Park
Volunteers will help remove trash and debris from the shoreline and surrounding park while enjoying incredible views of Jamaica Bay!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. Event is rain or shine.
Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Jamaica Bay Open Paddle Kayaking
Join JBRPC, Gateway National Recreation Area, and the Garden by the Bay for an easy, open kayak paddle in Jamaica Bay!
We’ll paddle around Norton Basin, a protected tributary of the Bay that offers calm conditions welcoming to beginner and experienced kayakers alike. The shoreline of Norton Basin is surrounded by natural areas and open space, making it the perfect place to spot native wildlife – from small shorebirds to soaring raptors. The experienced rangers at Gateway National Recreation Area will provide kayaking instruction, along with on-water support to ensure a safe and fun kayaking experience!
Learn more about the opportunities available to explore Rockaway’s native plants and animals in Norton Basin’s neighboring parks and receive a copy of JBRPC’s Common Plants and Pollinators of Jamaica Bay and Rockaway: A Field Guide to take home.
Shorebird Festival at Jamaica Bay
Join us for the 20th Annual Shorebird Festival!
August is the perfect time to explore the diversity of New York City’s shorebirds. The Shorebird Festival at Jamaica Bay is a partnership among NYC Bird Alliance, American Littoral Society, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, and Gateway National Recreation Area. Join us in learning all about these beautiful birds and explore the natural habitat of the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, filled with marshland, fresh and brackish water ponds, and grassy fields.
Meet at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.
This festival is kid-friendly and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Rockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean at B. 98th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for Rockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean, a mindful start to your Monday afternoon that gives back to the beach! We'll kick things off with Refresh Yoga, a short 10-15 minute session of gentle, grounding movement—then head to the sand to clean up the shoreline at Beach 106th Street.
These pop-up beach cleanups happen every Monday from 1–4 PM all summer long. Help us keep Rockaway beautiful after busy weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 59th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 59th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Rockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean at B. 106th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for Rockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean, a mindful start to your Monday afternoon that gives back to the beach! We'll kick things off with Refresh Yoga, a short 10-15 minute session of gentle, grounding movement—then head to the sand to clean up the shoreline at Beach 106th Street.
These pop-up beach cleanups happen every Monday from 1–4 PM all summer long. Help us keep Rockaway beautiful after busy weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 86th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 86th St. This pop-up cleanup will happen on Tuesday from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Achilles Adaptive Cycling
Join Us for Adaptive Cycling at Floyd Bennett Field!
Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy and Achilles International are excited to team up again to bring adaptive cycling to Floyd Bennett Field!
This free program offers people living with disabilities the chance to enjoy a ride on a tandem bike or handcycle in a welcoming, supportive environment. Achilles staff and volunteer guides will be on-site to answer questions and assist new riders.
There’s no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than by riding through Floyd Bennett Field, New York City’s first municipal airport and a historic gem within the National Park System. Come take in the fresh air, open spaces, and scenic views while you ride!
Helmets must be worn while cycling. If you have your own helmet, please bring it along—but don’t worry, we’ll have some available if you need one!
We can’t wait to see you there! Learn more about Achilles International’s NYC Adaptive Cycling Program here:
International Coastal Cleanup Day at Dubos Point Wildlife Sanctuary
In honor of in honor of International Coastal Cleanup Day, join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for a cleanup at Dubos Point Wildlife Sanctuary!
Volunteers will meet near the public restrooms to help remove trash and debris from Canarsie Pier’s important shorelines and wetlands while enjoying incredible views of Jamaica Bay!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. Event is rain or shine.
Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Park Pals Pop Up: Pollinators of Marine Park
Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy and Marine Park Alliance for Park Pals Pop-Up at the Carro Center in Marine Park on Saturday, 9/27!
Park Pals is a fun and engaging early childhood program designed for children ages 0-6 and their caregivers. This Fall, we’ll explore the fascinating world of pollinators and the coastal habitats they call home. Through hands-on science activities, sensory play, a storytime read-aloud, and a nature walk, little ones will learn about native species like monarch butterflies, bumblebees, and cabbage moths, and the plants they love, including milkweed, seaside goldenrod, and black-eyed Susans. This special pop-up session brings the joy of outdoor discovery to families while sparking curiosity about urban wildlife and the natural wonders of Jamaica Bay.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the event.
Raptorama at Jamaica Bay
The Raptorama festival is an annual event, presented by the American Littoral Society, with NYC Bird Alliance, Gotham Taxidermy, Gateway NPS, Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, and Wildlife Center of Long Island. While this event is free, donations to support this festival would be appreciated.
Meet at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center to learn about the hawks and owls of Jamaica Bay:
See some of these amazing raptors during a live demonstration, and go on walks with experts to get a look at hawk species flying south for the winter.
Participate in activities with our partners and friends in the tabling area in front of the Visitor Center!
Stop at the Junior (Raptor) Ranger table to grab a Jr. Ranger activity book, then explore and earn your Junior Ranger badge!
Borrow binoculars for free at the Visitor Center Desk & observe raptors during peak migration!
Support provided by the Fund for the City of New York and the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy.
For more information contact Don Riepe at 718-474-0896 or don@littoralsociety.org.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association — Supermoon Tuesday
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Cleanup at Bayswater City Park
Volunteers will help remove trash and debris from the shoreline and surrounding park while enjoying incredible views of Jamaica Bay!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. Event is rain or shine.
Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, and NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Park Pals Pop-Up: Pollinators of Floyd Bennet Field
Join JBRPC and the National Park Service for Park Pals Pop-up at Floyd Bennett Field on 10/5!
Park Pals is an early childhood family program for children ages 0-6 and their caregivers. Our Fall pop-up series focuses on the special pollinators of Jamaica Bay and the unique coastal habitats where they can be found. We’ll explore and identify native pollinators like monarch butterflies, bumblebees, and cabbage moths, and their favorite snacks like milkweed, seaside goldenrod, and black-eyed susans. We’ll also enjoy themed sensory activities, a read-aloud, and a nature walk in the park.
Registration information coming soon.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
November CleanSweep
As the winter months progress, the prevailing winds and tides bring major debris into Jamaica Bay. Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy (JBRPC) for the November CleanSweep, an effort by volunteers and students to remove marine debris from our shoreline! Enjoy the beautiful fall weather and end the year with the gift of clean shorelines!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. The event is rain or shine.
JBRPC Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here
Park Pals Pop-Up: Native Plants and Pollinators of Rockaway
Join JBRPC for Park Pals on 11/4 at Arverne East Nature Preserve! Park Pals is an early childhood family program for children ages 0–6 and their caregiver(s) that introduces the next generation of young scientists to parks and urban wildlife through a range of hands-on activities and guided exploration. This session will highlight late-blooming native plants and the pollinators they support as they prepare for winter. Activities include a themed read-aloud, a short nature walk through the preserve, crafts, and more!
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association — Supermoon Wednesday
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
November CleanSweep
As the winter months progress, the prevailing winds and tides bring major debris into Jamaica Bay. Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy (JBRPC) for the November CleanSweep, an effort by volunteers and students to remove marine debris from our shoreline! Enjoy the beautiful fall weather and end the year with the gift of clean shorelines!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. The event is rain or shine.
JBRPC Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
November CleanSweep
As the winter months progress, the prevailing winds and tides bring major debris into Jamaica Bay. Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy (JBRPC) for the November CleanSweep, an effort by volunteers and students to remove marine debris from our shoreline! Enjoy the beautiful fall weather and end the year with the gift of clean shorelines!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. The event is rain or shine.
JBRPC Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here
November CleanSweep
As the winter months progress, the prevailing winds and tides bring major debris into Jamaica Bay. Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy (JBRPC) for the November CleanSweep, an effort by volunteers and students to remove marine debris from our shoreline! Enjoy the beautiful fall weather and end the year with the gift of clean shorelines!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. The event is rain or shine.
JBRPC Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association — Supermoon Thursday
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 59th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 59th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Discover Jamaica Bay: Sunset Kayak and Marsh Island Tour
Join the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for a sunset kayak tour exploring Jamaica Bay’s Subway Island. We will depart from the Community Boat House launch at Vernam Barbadoes (Corner of Beach 75th St. & Amstel Blvd, Far Rockaway, NY 11692), and paddle across the channel to the southern tip of Subway Island, located south of Broad Channel Island. We’ll explore the shoreline salt marsh, which hosts a critical habitat for many iconic bird species, such as egrets, herons, gulls and ibises. We’ll enjoy the setting sun and views as we paddle under the A train trestle to the western edge of the island, traveling along the shoreline of Brant Point Wildlife Sanctuary, and taking in sweeping views of the Bay. We’ll end our tour as the sun begins to set, landing back at the Community Boat House. Kayaks, paddles and PFDs are generously provided free of charge by the Community Boat House. Registration: Spots for this tour are limited so please only register if you are able to attend!
Rockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean at B. 106th St.
Note: We rescheduled this from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1 due to the heat waves.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy for Rockaway Refresh: Flow & Clean, a mindful start to your Monday afternoon that gives back to the beach! We'll kick things off with Refresh Yoga, a short 10-15 minute session of gentle, grounding movement—then head to the sand to clean up the shoreline at Beach 106th Street.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 67th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 67th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Cleanup at Hamilton Beach Park
Volunteers will help remove trash and debris from the shoreline and surrounding park while enjoying incredible views of Jamaica Bay!
Gloves, bags, and tools will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and bring their own water and sunscreen. Event is rain or shine.
Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy Community Stewardship Programs are generously supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Con Edison, NYC Green Fund, and NYC Ferry, operated by Hornblower. Public funding is provided by NY Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer-Amato and Jaime R. Williams, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers, NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola and NYC Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 86th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 86th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers (Copy)
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Jamaica Bay Festival
The Jamaica Bay Festival is a free, fun, family event taking place in Brooklyn and Queens. The Festival celebrates those who share our vision to champion the spirit of the Jamaica Bay community, the unparalleled opportunities and the natural beauty of this urban tidal estuary. Participants can enjoy free kayaking, fishing, surfing, hiking, bird watching, art, nature and more.
Learn more about the opportunities available at this year’s 8th annual event here.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 98th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 98th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 17th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for this week’s Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B 17th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Rockaway Refresh at B. 106th St.
Join Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy staff for first weekly Rockaway Refresh boardwalk, beach, and shoreline cleanup at B. 106th St. These pop-up cleanups will happen all summer on Mondays from 1 pm - 4 pm. Volunteers are invited to help us keep our beaches debris-free after busy beach weekends.
Follow @jbrpc for more info.
Please complete our volunteer waiver prior to the start of the event by clicking here.
Gateway to the Sky: Aviation History at Hangar B
Prepare for takeoff!
Join a park ranger for a guided tour of historic Hangar B at Floyd Bennett Field and learn how this airfield helped shape the early days of aviation with record-breaking flights, pioneering pilots, and pivotal wartime efforts.
No registration or reservation is required.
Celebrate Rockaway Shorebirds Festival
Love the beach? So do nesting shorebirds, like the piping plover. These tiny shorebirds fly over 700 miles to nest at Rockaway Beach every year. Join NYC Park’s Piping Plover Team and other community partners for a day of educational activities and crafts to help us better understand how we can all share the beach and support a healthy living environment. Event is for all ages, with activities geared to younger audiences.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Paerdegat Basin Park Super Steward: Pathkeeper Training
Natural Areas Conservancy will host a Super Steward: Pathkeeper training on Saturday, June 21st, 2025 at Paerdegat Basin Park. If you are attending, please fill out this volunteer waiver.
Location: Corner of Ave U and Bergen Ave
Time: 10am - 1pm
During this training you will learn:
How to identify and assess trail conditions
Ways to mitigate trail concerns
Plant identification and invasive/non-native species management techniques
Standard trail corridor dimensions & how to prune native vegetation using basic arboriculture methods
What should you bring:
A water bottle
Weather appropriate clothing
Long pants
Sturdy, closed toe shoes
All participants are encouraged to attend the Super Steward Orientation prior to training. You can register for the Super Steward Orientation on the NYC Parks Super Steward website (there is one every month): https://www.nycgovparks.org/reg/advanced-stewardship
You are required to attend this orientation before becoming certified as a Super Steward: Trail Maintainer.
If you have any questions about this specific training please contact Trails Volunteer Coordinator, Melissa Rosenthal at melissa.rosenthal@naturalareasnyc.org.
Historic Airplanes of Brooklyn
Brooklyn's Floyd Bennett Field made history over and over during the golden age of air travel, from its birth in 1931 as the most modern airport, to its pivotal role in WWII. Join a park ranger for a tour of Hangar B and explore the historic aircrafts housed there while learning about the amazing contribution it made to aviation history.
No reservation or registration required.
CANCELLED — Achilles Adaptive Cycling
UPDATE - We’re so sorry to share that our Flag Day event at Bennett Field, scheduled for this Saturday, has been canceled due to the weather forecast. With safety and comfort in mind for all attendees, especially those using adaptive cycles and equipment, we felt it was the right call.
Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy and Achilles International are excited to team up again to bring adaptive cycling to Floyd Bennett Field!
This free program offers people living with disabilities the chance to enjoy a ride on a tandem bike or handcycle in a welcoming, supportive environment. Achilles staff and volunteer guides will be on-site to answer questions and assist new riders.
There’s no better way to enjoy the great outdoors than by riding through Floyd Bennett Field, New York City’s first municipal airport and a historic gem within the National Park System. Come take in the fresh air, open spaces, and scenic views while you ride!
Helmets must be worn while cycling. If you have your own helmet, please bring it along—but don’t worry, we’ll have some available if you need one!
We can’t wait to see you there! Learn more about Achilles International’s NYC Adaptive Cycling Program here:
Innovation and Action in Jamaica Bay
A State of the Bay Event
Join us for a dynamic, in-person gathering of community leaders, researchers, and environmental stewards dedicated to the protection and restoration of Jamaica Bay.
Set against the backdrop of the Jamaica Bay and Rockaway coastline, this event will spotlight cutting-edge strategies, celebrate local achievements, and explore bold, collaborative solutions for building a resilient and thriving urban estuary.
Agenda
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Arrival, Check-In & Networking Lunch
12:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Program
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Keynote Address
Panel Discussions
Spark Talks
Award Presentation
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Rooftop Happy Hour
Information on speakers available at JBRPC.org/stateofthebay
Getting Here
The Rockaway Hotel
108-10 Rockaway Beach Drive, Queens, NY 11694
www.therockawayhotel.com
By Ferry:
Take the NYC Ferry Rockaway Route from Wall Street/Pier 11 or Sunset Park/Brooklyn Army Terminal and enjoy the ride to the Rockaway stop on 108th Street. Once you step off the ferry, continue walking down 108th Street and in less than 5 minutes, you will have arrived.
Arriving by ferry is one of the most scenic and enjoyable ways to reach the Rockaways—plus, you’ll travel through the heart of Jamaica Bay.
By Subway:
Take the Rockaway Park A-Train directly to Beach 105th Street–Seaside Station
— or —
Take the Far Rockaway A-Train to Broad Channel Station and transfer to the S-Train Shuttle to Beach 105th Street–Seaside Station.
From the station, it’s just a short walk west along Rockaway Beach Boulevard to reach The Rockaway Hotel.
By Car:
Street parking is available nearby but can be limited in the summer due to increased beach visitors—please allow extra time.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Rockaway Beach Cleanup
In honor of World Ocean Day, Beach.com and Laru Beya Collective invite you to help protect the shores of Rockaway Beach.
Volunteers will gather at Beach 67th Street, by the boardwalk near the Comfort Station. Please arrive by 11 am for a brief orientation and to collect your cleanup bag and t-shirt.
To participate, please register via the link below. During registration, volunteers will be asked to provide their t-shirt size to help us ensure appropriate supplies.
Marine Park Shoreline and Trails Cleanup
Come celebrate World Oceans Day by cleaning up Marine Park with our partners United by Blue, Marine Park Alliance, GreenFi, and Tiny Spoon Chef.
We will come together to help preserve the health and beauty of the largest park in Brooklyn, Marine Park. Volunteers will remove marine-bound debris from the park, shoreline, and surrounding trails. Marine Park is a haven for various bird species, including migratory waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors. Our work will help to protect this ecologically diverse and critically important protected area.
Join our cleanup crew for a chance to win a United by Blue backpack made out of recycled plastic and stick around for free catered lunch by our partners Tiny Spoon Chef.
All cleanup gear (gloves, pickers, buckets, & trash bags) will be provided, but feel free to bring your own gloves if preferred. Please wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes, and don't forget sun protection and rain gear (just in case! ☔️). Lastly, be sure to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. 💧A water cooler will be available for refills.
We cannot wait to sea you there!
A little bit about our partners:
GreenFi is committed to keeping your money away from fossil fuels. With GreenFi you have the option to fund the planting of a tree with every purchase, cash back on sustainable purchases, and carbon offsets for your gas purchases. Learn more and become a member here.
United by Blue is a mission driven outdoor lifestyle company with a promise to remove one pound of trash from oceans and waterways for every product sold. They have removed over 5.3 MM pounds of trash since 2010.
Marine Park Alliance assists NYC Parks with a mission to provide cultural, environmental and volunteer programming in Marine Park for the health and well-being of all New Yorkers. To carry out this mission the group envisions elevating this city park as a southern Brooklyn cultural gem programmatically and ecologically.
Tiny Spoon Chef creates meals that serve as the backdrop to new relationships, great conversations, and lasting memories. Even more, we love bringing peace to busy people’s lives with delicious, nourishing meals on the table when they get home.
Stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association at historic Floyd Bennett Field for free monthly observing sessions, open to the public! Note: all events are 30 minutes after sunset. To calculate sunset, click here.
Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Park, Brooklyn. NOTE: Events are cancelled in the event of rain/snow, if sky is overcast, or if there is snow covering the ground.
The observing location at Floyd Bennett Field is next to the Community Garden. It is within walking distance of the Q35 bus, and there is ample parking for cars. This location is also easy for people to find in the dark, as it is next to the Community Garden.
Gateway to the Sky: Aviation History at Hangar B
Prepare for takeoff!
Join a park ranger for a guided tour of historic Hangar B at Floyd Bennett Field and learn how this airfield helped shape the early days of aviation with record-breaking flights, pioneering pilots, and pivotal wartime efforts.
No registration or reservation is required.
Reaching the Sky: Aviation Pioneers
Learn about aviation’s golden age! Tour historic aircraft collection!
Aviation history did not happen in a day. Join National Park Ranger Flor at Hangar B for an in depth look at aviation pioneers and the obstacles they overcame in order to make history. Put yourself in their shoes and explore the planes they would have flown. Pilots like Amelia Earhart, Wiley Post and others faced a lot of scrutiny in their quest to earn their “wings.” Discover the lasting legacy of these aviation pioneers.
No registration or reservation needed.
Fort Tilden and Dunes Hike
From military forts to beach dunes, Fort Tilden is known for its many defense systems. Join a park ranger on a guided nature walk on trails nestled between dunes and maritime forests and learn about how this site has defended us in the past and how it continues to do so today.
This program includes walking for approximately 2 miles on uneven terrain, including hills, rocks, sand, and wooden stairs. Meet outside Building 1 (1 Murray Rd.) at Fort Tilden, across the street from the horse corrals and fire station.