Dance Party All-Stars

Alfredo De La Fé is an internationally acclaimed violinist, best known for revolutionizing the role of the violin in salsa and Latin music. His virtuosity and pioneering approach have helped to establish him as a leading figure in Latin jazz and salsa, blending traditional classical techniques with the vibrant energy of Afro-Cuban and Caribbean rhythms.

A musical prodigy, Alfredo began studying classical violin at the age of 7 under the guidance of his father. After moving to New York, he began performing with local salsa bands, experimenting with how the violin could be integrated into the genre. Alfredo's big break came when he joined Eddie Palmieri’s band in the early 1970s. 

Alfredo has released over 30 albums, including the Grammy-nominated Alfredo. He has collaborated with a multitude of legendary artists, from salsa icons Eddie Palmieri, Tito Puente, and Celia Cruz to Latin jazz pioneers Mongo Santamaría, Papo Lucca, Ray Barretto, and Willie Colón. His ability to adapt his violin to different contexts—from traditional Afro-Cuban music to jazz fusion—has earned him acclaim across multiple genres.

As one of the pioneers of the Latin violin, Alfredo De La Fé has also taken on the role of educator, sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring musicians. He has conducted workshops and masterclasses around the world, teaching students about the technical aspects of violin playing, as well as the rhythmic and melodic intricacies of Latin music. His influence can be seen in the growing presence of the violin in contemporary salsa and Latin jazz ensembles, with many young musicians citing him as a major influence on their development.

The George Gee Swing Orchestra spearheaded the modern swing resurgence nearly four decades ago. Headlining regularly at Lincoln Center’s Midsummer Night Swing, the swing big band was a favorite of famed Savoy swing dancer Frankie Manning having performed a long series of dance events in his honor in New York City, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Tokyo! Lindy Hoppers around the country and world are big fans of George Gee’s high-energy shows! Catch them weekly at SWING46 Jazz & Supper in Times Square.

Bryant Park lends out hundreds of free blankets on a first come, first served basis, or bring your own cotton or fleece blanket. To protect the lawn, please do not sit on waterproof materials such as plastic tarps, yoga mats, or inflatable chairs. 

Take a seat in one of the pre-set chairs on the lawn or grab a chair from the gravel. You can use a chair anywhere on the lawn except for the center lawn blanket zone. 

Purchase food and drinks from tents on the east side of the lawn or bring your own picnic. Look for Stout NYC and Heaster Street Fair vendors, and be sure to visit the Bryant Park Shop, too!

Visit the Bryant Park Shop tent for exclusive Picnic Performances merchandise and more.

Find a parachute, hula hoops, and more fun on the east side of the lawn at select events. 

Dogs are welcome on the gravel and bluestone, but not on the lawn.

Performances are cancelled when it is unsafe to be outdoors. In some cases, the lawn may be too wet to open but the performance may continue. Follow @bryantparknyc for day-of event updates. You can also check the lawn status on the bryantpark.org homepage.