Harborlore Festival

Twelve dance, music and storytelling events held throughout the borough make up the Brooklyn Arts Council's ode to water in post-Sandy New York. Events range from taking part in a story circle with waterfront workers (May 25) to listening to traditional maritime songs (May 30). Some events are held in conjunction with other festivals, like the dance tribute to Sandy survivors at the 20th annual Red Hook Fest (June 1). On June 2, there's a workshop designed specifically for families, in which they'll join traditional dancers from a multitude of cultures performing along the Coney Island shore; and on June 8, participate in a ceremony memorializing the slaves who were forced to cross the Middle Passage. Families are also welcome to attend a symposium where artists and scholars discuss how to deal with future natural disasters (June 13). The festival culminates at Brooklyn Bridge Park for more performances, workshops and water lore. Kids learn a net fishing dance, join a drum circle (B.Y.O. instrument) and decorate their own leaf lamps to then set them afloat on the river. There are rain dates for all of the events—check the website for details. Ages 5 and up.