Letter From The Editor
August is officially here, and in the immortal words of Zara Larsson, “summer isn’t over yet.” There’s still so much to do in the last few weeks of the season — and if you need proof, just check out this month’s edition of “Your Month IRL,” Bustle’s monthly calendar of in-person events.
If you’re the outdoorsy type, music festivals in the mountains and trips to your nearest national park are musts for your summer itinerary. But for those who sunburn a little too easily for that, comedy shows, book festivals, and long-awaited TV premieres could be right up your alley. Whatever your summer vibe is, the following list has got you covered.
— Megan LaCreta, Editorial Associate
The Calendar
Some dates and details to keep in mind, regardless of which city you call home.
All August
If you’re visiting the Big Apple this summer, add Little Island to your itinerary. The pier turned public park is a must-see, for locals and tourists alike. Not only is the scenic destination the perfect place for an afternoon walk or a picnic (it’s home to some A-tier food and drink options), but the summer events lineup is one to watch. Personally, I have my eye on Julio Torres and Martine Gutierrez’s show, “Marina.” Find the performance schedule here.
August 1
Nikki Glaser is well on her way to becoming a comedy icon — there’s a reason she’s booked her third gig hosting the Golden Globes for 2027. Now that the comedian is off her dream appearance at Taylor Swift’s wedding, she’s taking her show on the road with the Stunning Tour. If you’re on the East Coast this August, be sure to check tickets to her New Jersey, Connecticut, North Carolina, or South Carolina shows.
August 5
You better BELIEVE! it — Ted Lasso is back for Season 4. This time, our favorite football (U.S.) turned football (U.K.) coach is faced with reforming a second-division women’s team. The season premieres on Apple TV on Wednesday, Aug. 5 with one episode, with the following nine dropping once a week. If past seasons are any indicator, this will be appointment viewing.
August 7 - 8
Aspen is not just for ski trips. This August, enjoy music from some of your favorite artists with a mountain view at Aspen, Colorado’s Up In The Sky Festival. This year’s lineup features headlining sets from John Summit and Dom Dolla, so you can dance all night and ground yourself in the pristine wilderness the next day. Balance is key!
August 22
Book lovers, assemble. On Aug. 22, the Library of Congress celebrates the annual National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. Stop by for book signings and family-friendly activities for all ages, including a can’t-miss lineup of featured speakers, like Kate McKinnon, Cynthia Erivo, and Ann Patchett. Get your free ticket here (but if you can’t make it, don’t worry — select events will be livestreamed).
August 25
The United States National Park Service is turning 110(!) years old this year, and to celebrate its birthday on Aug. 25, entrance fees are waved to parks across the nation. Find your closest national park, or take a road trip and explore somewhere new and exciting, free of charge.
From Our Local Guides
New York, NY
Mike Stobe/Getty Images Sport/Getty ImagesWhether you’re invested in a potential Sinner-Alcaraz rematch or dreaming of a Honey Deuce, wait no more: the US Open is back at Arthur Ashe Stadium this month. If you haven’t been able to snag tickets yet, Fan Week (Aug. 23 - Aug. 29) is completely free when you sign up for a Fan Access Pass. — Sophie Fishman, Editorial Associate
Orange County, CA
MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/MediaNews Group/Getty ImagesThe OC Fair is bringing classic fair bites, rides, and live entertainment now through Aug. 16. Tickets start at $13 for adults on weekdays and $18 on weekends, while children’s tickets are just $9. Head to Costa Mesa for a summer outing packed with plenty of photo-worthy moments.— Laili Shahrestani, Editorial Intern
Boston, MA
Boston Globe/Boston Globe/Getty ImagesIf you want to feel cultured this summer, stop by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s 30th Anniversary production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream on the Boston Common. Performances are free, but you can rent chairs and reserve premium seating for the best view of the performance here. — Megan LaCreta, Editorial Associate
Chicago, IL
@katiatemkinAriana Grande takes over Chicago’s United Center for three nights: Aug. 3, 5, and 6. What makes these concerts extra special is they are the first shows occurring after she releases her new album, Petal. It’s fair to expect some exciting changes. — Gabrielle Bondi, Entertainment Editor
Have an event for our monthly roundup? Send it to bustlecalendar@bustle.com.
