Papi Juice has spent over a decade building the party that queer and trans New Yorkers of color actually want, and it now has a weekly outdoor residency on a pier in the Hudson. Coyado opens with soundsystem dub weight, Latin percussion and dembow, on a stage where the skyline replaces the lighting rig. Free, no list, no cover. If you want to dance outdoors before summer ends, this is it.
What to expect
The Play Ground is Little Island's open-air club space at the north end of the park, dancefloor rather than seating, with water on three sides and the West Side lit up behind. The crowd is mixed, dressed up and there to move. Sets are short and stacked, so the night rolls quickly through DJs.
Good to know
- A/C/E/L to 14th Street-8th Avenue, then west to the West 13th Street entrance
- Free and unticketed - there is no guest list and no cover
- The park closes at midnight, so this is an early night by club standards
- River wind picks up after dark; bring a layer even in August
- Pair it with the Whitney Museum's free evening hours directly across the street
- Step-free access throughout the park, including the Play Ground level
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Common questions
What is Papi Juice?
An art collective founded in 2013 that curates events at the intersection of art, music, fashion and nightlife to affirm and celebrate the lives of queer and trans people of color. Little Island hosts its weekly summer residency.
Do I need a ticket?
No. Play Ground events at Little Island are free and unticketed. Entry to the park itself is also free, though capacity limits can apply on busy nights.
What time does the park close?
Little Island's grounds are open until midnight, which shapes the night - the DJ sets run late evening rather than into the small hours.
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