U.S. Open Offers Festivities On And Off Court

FLUSHING MEADOWS, QUEENS - Rafael Nadal, Venus Williams and other tennis stars won't be playing in the U.S. Open until next week, but the festivities are already underway.

Check out the action that's happening on and off the courts.

You can get a taste of the tournament in Manhattan this year, thanks to the "U.S. Open Experience." The Seaport District is providing food, live music and more on Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tennis pros like Angelique Kerber were expected to show up to meet fans.

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The opening ceremony on Monday night features Shania Twain. She's planning to sing her biggest hits as well as tunes from her upcoming album "NOW."

Check out free qualifying matches through Friday, when men and women long-shots strive to get into the tournament.

Arthur Ashe Kids' Day is coming this Saturday. Musical acts and tennis stars, yet to be announced, will rock the stadium. Tickets cost $10 to $25.

The U.S. Open is holding a community day on Thursday, Sept. 7. Doubles, a wheelchair competition and juniors matches are all played free in front of the public starting at noon.

For more info, visit the U.S. Open's website.

Lead image by Torrey Wiley via Flickr.