Family events in Syracuse, NY

Catch the final showcase celebrating students’ hard work in both Dance and STEM projects. It’s a fun, in-person evening where creativity and innovation come together, with all-ages activities and performances. Doors open at 5:50 PM, and parking is available for a fee.

This monthly babywearing meetup in Syracuse takes place at Betts Branch Library - Onondaga County Public Libraries. Attendees can ask questions and get support, test a carrier they have not used before, and connect with other babywearing parents.

Join the Taco & Margarita Festival at the Syracuse Inner Harbor for a fun day of tacos and Rancho La Gloria margaritas, plus live performances and fireworks. The festival runs for two days, with this specific session happening on August 8.

Presented by Jubilee Homes, this free community concert series brings live music, family activities, and neighborhood spirit to Spirit of Jubilee Park all summer. Each Showcase Sundays event highlights local and regional talent across R&B, soul, gospel, and more, with food trucks, bouncy houses, face painting, and other family friendly fun available throughout. Guests are welcome to relax in lawn chairs and enjoy performances in a welcoming setting. This edition celebrates Gospel Sunday with Marissa Jones as mistress of ceremony along with performances by Foundation and The Celebration Ensemble. Admission is free and open to the public, with support from CNY Arts, Wegmans, and the Downtown Syracuse Foundation.

Weeklong STEM and gaming camps at ELITE Gaming Arena blend esports play with hands-on technology learning in a lively, supportive setting. Campers compete individually and in teams, then dive into STEM through activities such as LEGO robotics, drone technology, and media production. ELITE camp staff lead challenges that nurture creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving while keeping the focus on fun. Two one-week sessions are offered for students in grades 4 to 6 and 7 to 9. Tuition options include $250 for a single week or $400 for both weeks. Space is limited, and registration will secure a spot.

Head to Petit Branch for casual chess on Mondays throughout July and August. Everyone is welcome, from kids to adults and beginners to seasoned players. A representative from Syracuse Chess will be on site to participate.

Open to boys entering kindergarten through eighth grade for the 2026 to 2027 school year, this summer lacrosse camp offers five mornings of high-energy drills, engaging games, and friendly competitions on the Westhill High School turf. Sessions are led by Westhill coaches and current players who bring enthusiasm and know-how to every activity. Newcomers and experienced athletes alike can build skills, grow confidence, and work together in a fun, supportive setting. Westhill residents and non-residents are welcome.

Tykes Tuesday at Destiny USA offers an afternoon of free activities for children under 12. Taking place on Tuesdays during the summer, this kid-focused series provides a variety of fun experiences at no cost.

This back to school safety event takes place in the Canyon area of Destiny USA and features hands-on activities that combine learning and fun for students preparing for the new school year. Representatives from law enforcement, the GTSC, the New York State Association Of Pupil Transport, and other safety experts will be on site leading interactive experiences that promote safe habits as classes resume.

Hanover Thursdays returns to Hanover Square with a free outdoor show featuring Double Tiger with opening support from the Emanuel Washington Project. Double Tiger brings a live reggae set that blends sound system traditions with contemporary roots, led by vocalist Jay Spake of Analogue Sons. Emanuel Washington, known for work with Sophistafunk and Skunk City, steps out front as lead singer with an original mix of R&B, funk, and hip hop. The music gets rolling with Joey D spinning classic tracks to set the groove, then the opener takes the stage, and the headlining band closes the night. Local artisans and restaurants add to the experience, and street closures help transform the square into a hub for music, art, food, and more.