Lifelong Williamsburg resident Tonya Gonzalez recalled using cans as a kid to help spray water as her friends ran past the hydrant.

Now the postal worker was lending a hand while the next generation made best of a summer unlike any other.

“We still have to try and have fun,” Gonzalez said.

Here are some photos showing some creative ways New Yorkers are enjoying the summer amid a pandemic:

Credit: Hiram Alejandro Durán/THE CITY

A group of novice skateboarders attempted to land their first trick at Washington Square Park.


Credit: Peter Senzamici/THE CITY

Despite a lack of spectators at this year’s July 4 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest due to COVID-19 restrictions, casual frankfurter fans waited for their own turn on the Coney Island Boardwalk.


Credit: Hiram Alejandro Durán/THE CITY

A visitor on the High Line followed the socially distanced green dots.


Credit: Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

Some took advantage of safe lounging during an early evening in Bryant Park.


Credit: Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

A blues band entertained people along a car-free stretch on Berry Street in Williamsburg as part of the city’s Open Streets program.


Credit: Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

Justin Juarbe, left, and Janice Weaver enjoyed drinks and food outside a Long Island City restaurant.


Credit: Hiram Alejandro Durán/THE CITY

A man tried to entice pigeons to land on him in Central Park.


Credit: Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

A future Yankee headed to practice in The Bronx.


Credit: Hiram Alejandro Durán/THE CITY

Antonia Howard exercised with her 10- and 7-year-old daughters at St. John’s Park in Crown Heights.


Credit: Hiram Alejandro Durán/THE CITY

A woman dances along to the band Alegba and Friends in Prospect Park. The group started performing in the park as a way to get out of the house. Plaudits keep them coming back.


Credit: Ben Fractenberg/THE CITY

Patrons sipped some outdoor drinks at The Gutter in Williamsburg as the sun set behind the Manhattan skyline.