Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in NYC with the 15th Annual NYC Unicycle Festival.
As summer bids farewell and Labor Day Weekend in NYC approaches, the City gears up for an event that is as quirky as it is exhilarating—the 15th Annual NYC Unicycle Festival. From August 29 to September 1, the city’s sidewalks and parks will become the stage for an extraordinary showcase of one-wheeled wonder, thanks to the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus.
Imagine Battery Park on a crisp August morning, a gathering of unicyclists preparing for a West Side ride that will wind its way through Manhattan’s iconic streets. This is not just any ride. It is a dazzling display of balance and grace. Riders, both seasoned and new, embark on a loop around Central Park. This lively procession of colorful wheels against the backdrop of the cityscape is a sight to behold. It blends the everyday hustle of New York with a dash of circus flair.
NYC Unicycle Festival: Brooklyn
As the festival rolls on, the excitement migrates to Brooklyn. On August 30, the Brooklyn Unicycle Day features an audacious 13-mile trek over the Brooklyn Bridge to Coney Island. This is not merely a test of endurance but a vibrant, rolling parade of enthusiasts making their way through the heart of NYC. The sight of unicyclists traversing the bridge, and the skyline behind them, is nothing short of spectacular. It is a true testament to the city’s spirit of adventure.
NYC Unicycle Festival: Hudson River Park
On Saturday and Sunday, the festival moves to Pier 76 at Hudson River Park. Enjoy unicycle basketball, thrilling demonstrations, and the popular Learn-To-Ride area. Novices can discover the joy of balancing on one wheel, while seasoned riders showcase their skills. The Wheel Centric Cirkus on Saturday night adds theatrical magic and flair to the day.
UniFest is perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and those curious about unicycles. It’s a whimsical celebration with something for everyone. The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, with 25 years of circus artistry, presents a free, fun, and unique event.
As Keith Nelson, co-founder of the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus, reflects, “It’s incredible to think that this quirky idea we had has now been delighting New Yorkers for 15 years. If you have ever wondered about this one-wheeled marvel, now is the time to dive in and try it for yourself.”
The Bindlestiff Family Cirkus
For over 25 years, the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus has redefined the American circus with a modern twist. Through Bindlestiff Family Variety Arts, Inc., they inspire joy and wonder by evolving circus and variety arts. They blend traditional circus elements with a contemporary, irreverent style. This approach keeps their shows engaging, accessible, and aligned with current artistic trends.
NYC Unicycle Festival Schedule
- Thursday, August 29: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM—West Side One-Wheel Ride, from Battery Park through Central Park.
- Friday, August 30: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM—Brooklyn Unicycle Day, featuring a 13-mile ride over the Brooklyn Bridge to Coney Island.
- Saturday, August 31: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM—Main events at Hudson River Park’s Pier 76, including Learn-To-Ride, unicycle basketball, and Wheel Centric Cirkus at 6:00 PM.
- Sunday, September 1: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM—Additional activities at Pier 76, including interactive Learn-To-Ride and unicycle basketball.
So, grab your curiosity and a sense of adventure, and join the city as it celebrates a spectacle that is as offbeat as it is unforgettable. For more information and to plan your visit, head to nycunifest.com.
Experience the 15th Annual NYC Unicycle Festival and immerse yourself in a spectacular celebration of one-wheeled wonder. Let the city’s end-of-summer charm sweep you off your feet.