free things to do in New York City
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, August 1, 2025!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
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In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
August 1, 2025. Free shows, free concerts, free movies, free tours, free readings, worshops, lectures, etc. are New York's best kept secret! Learn all about it and do not miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides: NYC never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So start using these unique New York City opportunities today, August 1, 2025!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, August 1, 2025!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in New York City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (August 1, 2025) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
Join the Club!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
Editor's Picks
42 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Friday, August 1, 2025
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Concert | Maroon 5 LIVE, GRAMMY-Winning Pop-Rock (Outdoors)
Household pop-rock band Maroon-5 lights up the stage at this morning performance. Producing hits for over 20 years now, 3x Grammy winner Maroon 5 is responsible for songs like "She Will Be Loved," "This Love," "Misery," "Moves Like Jagger," "Sugar," "Girls Like You," and many more chart-topping songs. Fans on the General Admission line will be admitted if space permits. It's advised that you arrive early to join the line. Generally, concerts happen rain or shine. Check-in for those with fan passes is at 5:15 a.m. The start time is approximate. Photo ID required for entry.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Morning Yoga in the Fresh Air
Move, stretch, and start your morning with this open-level vinyasa class taught by Frances Burch. Please bring a yoga mat; organizers recommend a water bottle and towel.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Outdoor Tai Chi for All Ages
Improve balance, strength and focus through gentle exercises. The sights and sounds of the river provide a serene background for the ancient flowing postures. An ideal choice for participants of all ages.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Friday at Pop Culture/Art Museum
Through temporary exhibitions, a growing permanent collection, and educational events, this museum explores the enormous impact of posters on society and culture, and how they have been adapted to contemporary use. As the first poster museum in the United States, it offers a space for inquiry for all those interested in design, advertising, and public interventions, intending to enhance design literacy among the general public. Special Programming Includes:
live printing demo with gallery artist
guided tours
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Zumba Class for All-Levels
Featuring easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography. Work on your balance, coordination and range of motion.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Asian Art and Culture Museum
The museum features a diverse collection of artworks, including traditional and contemporary pieces from various Asian cultures. 2 pm: guided tour.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Design Museum and Sculpture Garden
The museum was designed and created in 1980's by one of the twentieth century's most important landscape architects and designers. It serves to preserve the legacy of the artist by showcasing his creations: sculptures, furniture pieces, lighting designs, ceramics, architecture, and more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Festival | Food Festival with Local Vendors
New York City's favorite outdoor food market, Smorgasburg, is back. Enjoy a variety of eats and treats from local vendors.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome
This juggling class is ideal for a quick lesson, an extended practice session, or just enjoy watching jugglers put their skills to the test. They’re a friendly group and open to drop-ins, even if you catch them outside of the regular juggling lessons.
All skill levels welcome. Equipment is provided.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection of 10,000 items. One of the exhibitions includes famous Tiffany's leaded glass objects and a valuable insight into the development of the inuctry in the US at the turn of the 20th century.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Jazz | Piano in the Park: jazz pianist, who performed with Rita Moreno, Liza Minelli, and on Broadway
Russ Kassoff, an accomplished jazz pianist, regularly performs at trio and solo jazz concerts, clubs, festivals, etc. He performs as well for the legendary Rita Moreno's heartfelt autobiographical shows and Liza Minelli's acclaimed national tour. He has played a number of shows on Broadway, including Miss Saigon, Sunset Boulevard, Cats, and more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Anora (2024): Sean Baker's Oscar-Winning Romantic Comedy-Drama
Anora, a young woman from Brooklyn, gets her chance at a Cinderella story when she meets and marries the son of an oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairytale is threatened as the parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled. Director: Sean Baker Cast: Mikey Madison, Mark Eydelshteyn, Yura Borisov, Karren Karagulian Sean Baker is a director, writer, editor, and producer of independent narrative feature films, often about the lives of marginalized people. Baker has since directed seven feature films: Take Out (2004), Prince of Broadway (2008), Starlet (2012), Tangerine (2015), The Florida Project (2017), Red Rocket (2021), and Anora (2024). For Anora, he received the Palme d'Or and, alongside his wife Samantha Quan, the British Academy Film Award for Best Casting, before proceeding to win, for Anora, Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Film Editing at the 97th Academy Awards. He is the first person to individually win four Oscars for the same film in a single ceremony.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Crafting Community: Work on Personal Projects & Make New Friends
Freeform crafting and conversation! Bring your own project or choose something from the collection to work on. The organizers have materials for sewing, knitting, crochet, coloring, and paper crafts. All programs are subject to change or cancellation.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Free
Free
Dance Performance | Contemporary & Hip-Hop Choreography
Experience a young ensemble showcasing cutting-edge contemporary and hip-hop dance. Celebrating 30 years of amplifying young voices, the company presents original choreography created and performed by its dancers, alongside repertory from the award-winning guest company A.I.M by Kyle Abraham. Experience bold, innovative movement that captures the energy and creativity of NYC's next generation of dance artists.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Inside the Exhibit: Talk With Museum Experts
Celebrate 100 years since the historic acquisition of George Grey Barnard's medieval collection with an in-depth conversation led by Museum curators, conservators, scientists, and scholars. This expert-led program offers fresh insights, untold stories, and a closer look at remarkable works of art. Bring your questions for an engaging discussion that illuminates the legacy of this influential sculptor and collector. Note: Space is limited; first come, first served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Artmaking with Local Artist in the Park
Spend a Friday evening learning new artistic practices from a rotating group of incredibly talented local creators!
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | A Night of Live Music, Drinks & 5,000 Years of Art
Enjoy a stylish evening of art, live music, and engaging talks every Friday and Saturday night. From 5-9 PM, sip on drink specials, sample light fare, and take in the museum's vast collection spanning millennia. Grab a friend, a partner, or come solo--this after-hours experience offers something for everyone.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Lesson | All Ages Dance Workshop: Ballet
This event is a dance workshop featuring a demonstration led by Dance Theatre of Harlem company members. The session will focus on the rudiments of ballet study, followed by an interactive choreographic exploration.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | American History and Artifact Collections
Enjoy a stroll through galleries of an extensive collection of American art, learn about the history of New York and the USA. Last admission is at 7 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Museums | Friday Evening at the Art/History Museum
This museum is an assemblage of illuminated, literary, and historical manuscripts, early printed books, and old master drawings and prints inside a historic building. Registration opens 7 days in advance & does sell out.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Friday Night Function at an Iconic Art Museum
Enjoy art, drinks, special programming, music, city views, and more! Throughout the night, there will be a few "15-minute tours," highlighting different parts of the collection.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | National Book Foundation Panel Celebrates Debut Authors
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the National Book Foundation’s 5 Under 35 program, which honors debut fiction writers whose work promises to leave a lasting impression on the literary landscape. To celebrate, this event offers a discussion featuring past honorees—Angela Flournoy (The Turner House, 2015 5 Under 35 Honoree), Raven Leilani (Luster, 2020 5 Under 35 Honoree), and Kirstin Valdez Quade (Night at the Fiestas, 2014 5 Under 35 Honoree)—where they reveal the authors and books that most inspired them, and what it means to build a literary career and community in New York. The discussion will be moderated by Natalie Green, Director of Programs & Partnerships at the National Book Foundation.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Play New Games like Blood on the Clocktower (BOTC)
Curious about a board game or looking to try something new? The Games Hosts will be teaching how to play a wide range of fun board games. Many come to play the social deduction game, Blood on the Clocktower (BOTC).
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | Experts Talk on the Intersection of Arts & Healing (In Person AND Online!)
How can the arts be leveraged to influence policy, health systems, and social movements? Leading artists, researchers, and lived experience experts join a conversation exploring the intersection of arts and healing. This conversation will be curated and moderated by Dr. Nisha Sajnani, Assoc. Professor and Director of the NYU Steinhardt Graduate Program in Drama Therapy, Chair of the NYU Creative Arts Therapies Consortium, Co-Director of the Jameel Arts & Health Lab, and co-founder of Healing Arts NYC, a city-wide arts and health network. Dr. Sajnani is an advocate for the arts as a global health resource and leads an international network of researchers dedicated to measurably improving lives through the arts and arts therapies. Panelists:
AZA Allsop
Mai Lê Hô
David Leventhal
Constantina Theofanopoulou
Seating is first-come first-served. Just show up!
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Opening Reception | NYC Stories Art Experience with 43 Artists
Kick off August with an explosive celebration of creativity! Meet 43 seasoned and emerging artists whose work tells powerful, personal stories. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, soak in the artistic energy, and contribute your masterpiece in the interactive Creator Room--where your drawing might become part of the show itself.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Dancing | Dance Merengue Tipico with Live Music from Nelly Swing
The Dominican Republic-born vocalist and instrumentalist Nelly Francisca Torres, also known as Nelly Swing, is one of the most exciting and in-demand voices in contemporary merengue tipico music. Her career took off when saxophonist Leo Jazz formed a group featuring Nelly as the lead accordionist, naming it Nelly Swing "La Rompeola," due to her signature hip-rolling dance moves. Nelly achieved international recognition with the viral hit "Como el Perro Bebe Agua," which garnered millions of views across social media platforms and expanded her reach throughout the United States and South America. Arrive early to learn some basic merengue tipico steps to keep up with the band! DJ set at 6:30 pm Dance lesson at 7:00 pm Live music at 7:30 pm There are two ways to access this free event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
6:30 pm
Regular: $39
Member: $0
Regular: $39
Member: $0
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Author Reading | Storytelling Salon
Hosted by Matt Storrs, this event brings the best NYC creatives (and some surprise guests) together for an early evening storytelling salon. A variety of experts, professionals, and ne’er-do-wells whose work has been featured on The Moth, Comedy Central, PBS, and at fringe festivals around the world will be present.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
$5
$5
Performance | Comedy Variety Night with Local Performers
An evening of comedy, music, and surprises at this long-running variety. Enjoy sets from comedians Bob Greenberg, Liz Miele, and Ria Spencer, plus live music by house band The Summer Replacements featuring Alex “The Assassin” DeSuze and Diamond DeeAnne Gorman.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Talk | Commemoration & conversation marking the Warsaw Uprising
Mark the 81st anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising with a special evening of remembrance. The program includes a conversation with Jerzy Malewicz (“Kowalski”), a surviving participant in the 1944 resistance, and a performance of the Warsaw Uprising songs. This moving tribute honors the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom during one of WWII’s most heroic acts of resistance.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | GRAMMY-Nominated Big Band Brings Explosive Sound to the Park
Led by visionary pianist and composer Orrin Evans, the Grammy Award-nominated Captain Black Big Band delivers big-band jazz with bold energy and fearless creativity. With its explosive sound and improvisational fire, the ensemble transforms hard-swinging grooves, bluesy soul, and avant-garde edges into a thrilling, unpredictable ride. With Evans at the helm, expect a powerhouse performance that pushes boundaries and lights up the stage at this performance.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Japanese Art and Culture
The gallery showcases both traditional and contemporary Japanese art, including amine designs and theatrical production elements that evolved in the 17th century.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Music in the Bandshell: Americana Night
It’s Americana night with Mireya Ramos and the Poor Choices, blending musical traditions that span the US and Mexico – including ranchera, jarocho, bluegrass, jazz, and country. Morley brings a stirring blend of jazz, soul, and folk, grounded in messages of human rights and environmental justice. Memphis-based soul artist Talibah Safiya draws on blues traditions, minimal but powerful instrumentation, and vivid lyrics to create songs that tell a deeply personal story. For d/Deaf and hard of hearing communities, there is an ASL interpreter on stage. Doors open at 6:00. Bandshell entry is first come first served. RSVP for a chance to win two VIP tent passes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare Under the Stars: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Experience the magic of A Midsummer Night’s Dream like never before, under the open sky and on the pavement. From July 17 to August 2, catch free performances every Thursday through Saturday at 7:00 PM as Shakespeare’s beloved comedy unfolds in a refreshingly untraditional setting. Mischief, romance, and moonlit mayhem await in this playful take on the classic tale, brought to life with energy, humor, and street-level charm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
7:00 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Comedy Club | HBO, Netflix, Disney+, & Amazon -Featured Comedian, Danielle Perez, Presents Her New Special
Danielle Perez, Los Angeles-based comedian, writer, and actor, and the 2021 Just for Laughs “New Face”, takes the stage for a one-night-only comedy special. Perez has appeared in Gloria Calderon Kellett’s With Love (Amazon), Curb Your Enthusiasm (HBO), Special (Netflix), Russian Doll (Netflix), and Diary of a Future President (Disney+). She has also starred in feature films: Swipe Right, Plan B, Dicks: The Musical, and most recently Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Be on the look out for her next new series, currently in development, which she is writing, starring, and producing with A24. There are two ways to access this free event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all. Or, become a Member and get a Fast Track pass for priority entry all summer long.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Movie in a Park | Moana 2 (2025): Animated Seafaring Adventure from Disney
In this animated sequel, Moana and the demigod Maui reunite for an epic ocean voyage. Set three years after the events of the original film, Moana 2 follows the fearless navigator as she answers an ancestral call that leads her into uncharted waters, where new allies and new threats await. Rated PG. Please note: Movies begin at dusk. No glass bottles or alcoholic beverages allowed. In the event of heavy rain or extreme weather, the screening may be canceled—check the official website for updates.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 pm
Free
Free
8:30 pm
Regular: $91
Member: $0
Regular: $91
Member: $0
Join the Club!
9:30 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Party | Brooklyn Art Collective Papi Juice Throws Nightlife Celebration
Celebrating queer and trans people of color, Papi Juice creates spaces where art, music, and community collide — vibrant, joyful, and unapologetically alive. Since forming in 2013, Papi Juice — the Brooklyn-based art collective founded by Adam Rhodes, Oscar Nñ, and Mohammed Fayaz — has been changing the face of nightlife in New York and beyond with their fabled DJ sets and all-night dance parties. Seating opens 30 minutes before showtime and is available on the grass or benches. Accessible seating is available. Please inform staff upon arrival if accommodations are needed.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 pm
Free
Free
Dancing | Silent Disco: DJ Bembona
It's time to turn up the volume and get down on the dance floor! This silent disco takes place at NYC's largest outdoor dance floor underneath our ten-foot disco ball. Experience music and DJs from around the world, spinning live, straight to your high-fidelity headphones, distributed free on-site. This event's featured guest is Brooklyn-born/Puerto Rican-Panamanian DJ Bembona. Bembona's musical practice is rooted in spirituality and healing with an emphasis on celebrating, empowering, and unifying the Black Diaspora. There are two ways to access this free event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 pm
Free
Free
Join the Club!
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