The 5 Best Things To Do In NYC Tonight, August 18

Tonight in New York City: Attend the Brooklyn Comedy Festival, watch a movie in Central Park, or listen to jazz in Brooklyn Bridge Park. By Carly Petrone.

The Shining

(credit: Bryant Park)

More: NYC's 5 Best Bars Near Rockefeller Center And Bryant Park

It's time for the last outdoor movie screening of the summer at Bryant Park and tonight but make sure you come prepared to be scared. Jack Nicholson in The Shining, where he plays an unstable writer who takes a job in the off-season at an isolated resort, which may be haunted by guests who never checked out. Can someone say creepy twin girls in a hallway? Yikes! Screening begins at sunset and lawn opens up at 5 p.m.

Game Night: BKCF Edition

(credit: spikehillmusic.com)

More: The 5 Best Places To See Stand Up Comedy In NYC

The Brooklyn Comedy Festival takes over Game Night at Spike Hill tonight. Kyle Ayers and Will Winner host tonight's lineup of comedians which includes the talented Jason Burke, Josh Gondleman, Dan Friesen, Adam Newman, and The Reformed Whores. Yep, it's pretty much a night of comedy (and Brooklyn Brewery specials) that you don't want to miss. Admission is free and show starts at 8 p.m.

Central Park Conservancy Film Festival: Big

Photo Courtesy of Central Park Conservancy

More: The 5 Best Bars Near Central Park

It's time to think Big, as in the classic '80s film starring a young Tom Hanks. Tonight, curl up with your favorite person and watch an outdoor screening of the Penny Marshall film that left children everywhere wanting to make a wish along the Coney Island Pier (and dance on the piano at FAO Schwartz). In case you need a refresher, the story follows a 12 year-old boy who wishes to become a grown up only to find himself in an adult body the next morning.

Shape Up NYC's Couch to 5K: Group Run

(credit: Facebook/Shape Up NYC)

More: NYC's Best Running Spots

Stay in summer shape by joining the Shape Up NYC's Couch to 5k group for a run through Prospect Park. This running group meets on the porch of Lefferts Historic House and is taught by expert fitness instructors who know how to make fitness fun! Tonight's group run combines jogging, walking, and conditioning exercises to get you in shape for long distance running. Class will be held outdoors, rain or shine so come prepared. Class starts at 7 p.m.

Jazzmobile

(credit: brooklynbridgepark.org)

More: Best Jazz Clubs In New York

Head over to Brooklyn Bridge Park tonight for an evening of jazz with Arturo O'Farrill. The pianist, composer, educator, and founder and Artistic Director of the nonprofit Afro Latin Jazz Alliance most recently was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album. Come hear him perform live tonight starting at 7 p.m.

For the latest on all of the Tri-State's events and happenings, follow us on Twitter!

Carly Petrone is a freelance writer living in New York City.