It seems like wherever we turn these days, we're being hit with divisive politics, rising prices, climate concerns and all manner of other bad and frankly depressing news. But one thing summertime is really good at, is taking us away from all our worries and showing us a really good time, even if just for a day or two.

And nothing else we know of can quite equal the sheer excitement, joy, diversity and sense of community of New York's City's electrifying West Side Fest, taking place this year from July 10-12. With endlessly engaging activities for all ages, it's produced by The West Side Cultural Network, an association of parks, museums and performing arts organizations located within a half mile stretch roughly between the Meatpacking District and Chelsea.

So what's all the buzz about?

Well, this year's edition's lineup of participating partners again includes the venerable Whitney Museum of American Art, which will host a Free Friday Night (5-10pm), as well as a Free Second Sunday all day, an open studio for teens, artmaking for all ages, and a poster making program in collaboration with Poster House. The latter will also be conducting a special kid-friendly workshop.

For something a little more ethereal, the Joyce Theater will be staging performances of the Pilobolus company's piece 'Trips', an intergalactic dance journey that promises everything from 'physical poetry' to 'gravity-defying feats'. Which means, yes, it's an absolute "can't miss".

While nearby, The Shed will present ongoing programing based around art, performance and music, with an exuberant dance party taking place on the open-air plaza to the soulful house sounds of Brooklyn DJ collective Soul Summit. A clothing shop and mending workshop can teach kids about the importance of sustainable alternatives to fast fashion consumption. And continuing along that ideological bent, Westbeth Artists Housing will host an arts & crafts and vintage market featuring the work of local artists.

For zen-minded parents, the iconic experimental cross-disciplinary space The Kitchen will conduct yoga classes in its sunlight-filled loft.

Outdoor spaces will be humming, as well, with live Latin jazz and all-levels dance classes at Hudson River Park. While the beloved High Line, which offers some of the most breathtaking views in the city, will host a community art party, along with dancing to an impressive lineup of DJ talent.

Of course, there are fun-for-the-whole-family outdoor arts festivals taking place around the country during the coming months; and here's a great list featuring ecstatic celebrations of culture from Park City to Chicago to New Haven. But wherever you happen to call home, just check your state or county events website for the one nearest you; or otherwise plan a fun road trip for an unforgettable summer cultural experience.