free things to do in New York City
Free events for Saturday, 08/20/16
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City!  Read More

Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on August 20, 2016?

51 free events take place on Saturday, August 20 in New York City. Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides! Exciting, high quality, unique and off the beaten path free events and free things to do take place in New York today, tonight, tomorrow and each day of the year, any time of the day: whether it's a weekday or a weekend, day or night, morning or evening or afternoon, December or July, April or November! These events will take your breath away!

New York City (NYC) never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment. Check out August 20 and see for yourself. Summer or Winter, Spring or Fall! Just click on any day of the calendar above and you'll find most inspiring and entertaining free events to go to and free things to do on each day of August . Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides!

Some events take place all year long: same day of the week, same time there are there for you to take advantage of. One of the oldest free weekly events in Manhattan is Dixieland Jazz with the Gotham Jazzmen, which happen at noon every Tuesday. Another example of an event that you can attend all year round on weekdays is Federal Reserve Bank Tour, which takes place every week day at 1 pm (but advanced reservations are required). You can take at least 13 free tours every day of the year, except the New Year Day, July 4th, and the Christmas Day. If you are classical music afficionado, you can spend whole day in New York going from one free classical concert to another. If you love theater, then New York gives you an option to attend plays and musicals free of charge, or at deep discount. You just need to have information about it. And we are here to make that information available to you.
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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!

51 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Saturday, August 20, 2016

All events are free unless otherwise noted.
        

Festival | Summer Streets


Summer Streets is an annual celebration of New York City’s most valuable public space—our streets. Nearly seven miles of NYC's streets are opened for people to play, run, walk and bike. Summer Streets extends from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park, along Park Avenue and connecting streets, and features sports, fitness, and art events and programs. All activities at Summer Streets are designed for people of all ages and ability levels to share the streets respectfully.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 am
Free

Workshop | Health and Race Walking


Moderate-to-brisk walks led by the NY Walkers Club for people 18 years and older of all abilities. This low-impact fitness program is perfect for those who want to get in shape, build muscle tone, strength and increase cardiovascular health while enjoying the Park's beautiful landscapes. This event takes place every Saturday.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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9:30 am
Free

Workshop | Tai Chi in the Outdoors


Welcome the Chinatown YMCA back for a third season of weekly tai chi classes, weather permitting. All skill levels are welcome.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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9:30 am
Free

City Walk | Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo Tour


This is a 3-hour tour that begins with a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge, an icon of New York City for over 125 years, with spectacular views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The tour then moves on to a stroll of Brooklyn Heights, America’s and New York City’s first suburb. The tour then explores the neighborhood DUMBO before ending at the Fulton Ferry landing. This tour takes place every day at 10am.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Park Walk | Central Park Tour - Lower Section


Once described as the lungs of the city, Central Park brings a breath of fresh air to New York's crowded urban terrain. What started out as the rocky and desolate northern fringes of a rapidly expanding city is today among the world's most famous and beloved public parks. With over 843 acres of meadows, hills, ball fields and bodies of water, it's impossible not to find something to enjoy in Central Park. Tour is Wednesdays and Saturdays.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Tour | Downtown Manhattan 3-Hour Tour


The 3-hour walking and subway tour covers the Financial District including Wall Street and the World Trade Center, SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown. These are neighborhoods that simply can’t be fully appreciated from a bus. There will be one or two opportunities to sample tasty treats. This tour takes place every day.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Workshop | Drawing in the Park


Paint in watercolor, or use pastels, chalk, and charcoal to capture the magical vistas of the Hudson River and the unique landscape of the South Cove. An artist/educator will help participants of all levels with instruction and critique. Art materials provided.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Tour | Greenwich Village Neighborhood Tour


Greenwich Village is among Manhattan's most desirable and expensive residential neighborhoods. It's history, however, betrays it's monied status. The Village, with it's quiet, shaded streets, lined with lovely brick and brownstone townhouses, was once the incubating ground of artistic, social and political movements that have helped shape US history. From the Beats to the Folk Movement, from workers rights to gay rights, the Village has often been the center of it all. Tours are Mondays and Fridays at 2pm, and Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10am.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Tour | Harlem Tour


Although world famous, Harlem may be New York's best kept secret with some of the city's best architecture, food, music and people. Harlem's history is also one of the city's most dramatic, having gone through many ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic changes over the past roughly 400 years, which have resulted in a diverse array of places of worship, theaters, homes and eating establishments. This tour takes place Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays Thursdays and Fridays at 2pm, and Saturdays at 10am.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Park Walk | High Line Tour: From Freight to Flowers


Hear the story behind New York City's park in the sky. The tour is 75 minutes long and are led by High Line docents, knowledgeable volunteer guides who will offer you an insider's perspective on the park's history, design, and landscape. Space is limited. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early to guarantee a spot. Takes place Tuesdays and Saturday between May 3 and October 29.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Other | Live Olympics Streaming


Get in the game and join this live streaming of the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic Games! Bring your earbuds and listen to the action, cheer on your favorite countries and athletes!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Tour | Manhattan Street Art Tour


Join a Manhattan Street Art Tour and experience the Lower East Side - SoHo, NoHo, Nolita and Little Italy. The Lower East Side of Manhattan is a playground for street artists, Soho is known to be one of NYC first permit Joint Live-Work Quarters for artists and the area received landmark designation in 1973. Noho and Nolita’s street art is either hidden in courtyards or on the more prominent street art facades. Learn about the history of the art of many famous and unknown artist. Takes place Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Tour | New York One-Day Tour


Don't have enough time to take all of the tours? Prefer to experience Manhattan with a smaller group, but a private booking is out of reach? Then consider our All-in-One New York Tour. This tour utilizes your feet and the New York City Subway to transport you from Lower Manhattan, the birthplace of New York, through Wall St and the Financial District, the World Trade Center, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Chinatown, Little Italy, Chelsea Market and the Highline Park. Tour takes place Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Workshop | Park Moves with Limon Dance


Experience the joy of movement and dance. Class is led by former and current members of the internationally renowned modern dance company Limon Dance. Open to all levels and ages.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Workshop | Singing Class with Jon Stancato


Whether you are a seasoned professional, a proud shower singer, or someone who has never opened their mouth to sing, this class allows singers and non-singers alike to uncover the power and beauty of their full 5-octave range while developing a deep, emotive connection to their own unique sound. Lauded as "ingenious" by the New York Times, Jon Stancato is a Co-Artistic Director of Stolen Chair, the 4-time Drama Desk-nominated theatre company.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Tour | SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Tour


You've seen the iconic skyscrapers, attended a Broadway show, visited Lady Liberty and relaxed in Central Park. Looking for a little more of the Big Apple? Maybe it's time to visit some of Manhattan's oldest and most enchanting historic districts. Take a relaxing stroll through SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown. Takes takes place daily.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Fair | Street Fair


Free fun for the whole family, including arts, crafts, antiques, plants, entertainment, games, and more.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Fair | Street Fair


Free fun for the whole family, including arts, crafts, antiques, plants, entertainment, games, and more.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Fair | Hester Street Fair


This fair will feature a diverse roster of 60 curated vendors and curiously creative entrepreneurs delivering design, art, fashion and food. The fair will also host a series of hands-on workshops, collaborative activities and special events. This fair takes place every Saturday from May 14 to October 29.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Workshop | Juggling in the Park


Test your coordination and dexterity with free juggling lessons in the park. All skill levels are welcome to join in the fun. Equipment is provided. The event is offered daily, except Sundays.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Workshop | Learn English: Intermediate and Advanced Levels


We Are New York is an Emmy Award-winning half hour TV show created to help people practice English. Each story is about everyday situations, like going to the doctor or talking with a child's teacher. The characters speak slowly and clearly. Adult learners will have the opportunity to learn English by watching We Are New York videos. The program works best for people who speak some English and want to practice. First come, first seated..
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Workshop | Nutrition and Healthy Eating Habits


Techniques to break food addictions that destroy health. Mindful eating practices. Miracle plants to add to your diet that will help you live a happier and healthier life.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Hike | Rockaway Park Hike and Swim


Walk along boardwalk from Beach 90th St. to end of boardwalk near 5th street. Moderate pace about 4-5 hours. Approximate distance 5-6 miles. After lunch walk back to subway station at Beach 44th street where walk will end. Drop-off points with access to subway along walk route. Bring lunch, water, and bathing suit. Please allow extra time to get to Rockaway Beach due to weekend track repair work. Must call to determine walk status.
   New York City, NY; NYC
11:00 am
$3

Workshop | Shape Up NYC Zumba


Shape Up NYC offers free fitness classes to help New Yorkers get and stay fit. Takes place Saturdays, May through September.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Festival | FlyNYC Kite Flying Festival


Come fly a kite at this festival for all ages! Kite-making kits provided for children and live music groups play all day to aid your celebration of simple fun.
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
Free

Staged Reading | One-act plays by local writers


Piney Fork Press / Equity Library Theater Summer Playwriting Festival 2016 presents an afternoon of theater staged readings.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free

Festival | Busker Fest: circus, comedy, magic, music, juggling, and more!


The festival features a wide variety of entertainment, including traditional street performers, also known as "buskers", performing circus, comedy, juggling, acrobatics and even a performer who catches a cabbage launched from a catapult... on his head! Also there will be stilt walkers, hula hoopers, face painters and more!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free

Film | Billy Elliot (2000): British dance drama


A talented young boy becomes torn between his unexpected love of dance and the disintegration of his family.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Staged Reading | Shakespeare's The Second Part of Henry the Fourth


Instant Shakespeare Company performs.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Musical | Election Selection, or You Bet!: An Operetta for the Street


Crystal Field and Joseph Vernon Banks created this boisterous, multi-ethnic, hope-filled, full-stage operetta for the street. A musical with one of a kind masks and puppets, a new and original script and score, a 50-member totally diverse singing and dancing company of players, crew, and a 5-piece live band with the composer at the keyboards. A company whose members range from pre-teens to seniors.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free

Tour | Bushwick Graffiti and Street Art Tour


New York City is a mecca for graffiti and street art, making it a very attractive playground for artists from around the world. Bushwick, in a working class district on the north side of Brooklyn adjacent to Williamsburg, has been attracting artists for some time now. The neighborhood has a fair collection of art studios and galleries, but it’s Bushwick’s industrial landscape that’s attracting the street artist. If you came looking for 1960′s Greenwich Village, you’ll find something brewing in Bushwick. Tour takes place Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Jazz | Jazz Festival Featuring Marjorie Eliot


Enjoy the great outdoors with two days of classic jazz, brought to you by local icon Marjorie Eliot and Parlor Entertainment.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Film | John Hughes' Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987): Buddy Comedy


Stars: Steve Martin, John Candy, Laila Robins. A man must struggle to travel home for Thanksgiving with an obnoxious slob of a shower curtain ring salesman as his only companion. 93 min.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Knitting Circle


Got knitting skills? If not, want to learn? Some supplies are provided, but everyone is required to bring your own yarn.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Park Walk | Mid-Park Welcome Tour


Explore the Park’s central features including the Lake and Ramble woodland, then marvel at the views from Belvedere Castle. Route involves many hills, stairs, and uneven paths. 45 minutes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Book Discussion | Paolo Valesio's Il servo rosso (The Red Servant)


A presentation of a new bilingual edition of the work of the Italian poet Paolo Valesio. Patrizio Ceccagnoli will introduce the book's translators, Graziella Sidoli (who is also its editor) and Michael Palma, each of whom will speak on the translation of poetry, followed by a reading of selected poems from the book. Ceccagnoli will moderate discussion and questions from the audience. Paolo Valesio is the Giuseppe Ungaretti Professor Emeritus in Italian Literature at Columbia University. He previously taught at Yale University. Patrizio Ceccagnoli is an Assistant Professor of Italian at the University of Kansas.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Film | Richard Linklater's Everybody Wants Some!! (2016): Maturing at College


Stars: Blake Jenner, Tyler Hoechlin, Ryan Guzman. A group of college baseball players navigate their way through the freedoms and responsibilities of unsupervised adulthood. 117 min.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Tour | SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Tour


You've seen the iconic skyscrapers, attended a Broadway show, visited Lady Liberty and relaxed in Central Park. Looking for a little more of the Big Apple? Maybe it's time to visit some of Manhattan's oldest and most enchanting historic districts. Take a relaxing stroll through SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown. Takes takes place daily.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Festival | The 12th Annual Fort Greene Summer Literary Festival


The 12th Annual Fort Greene Summer Literary Festival will feature young writers (6-18 year olds) reading alongside an electrifying lineup of Black women writers whose debut novels are shaking things up in the literary world. The featured readers are Nicole Dennis-Benn (Here Comes the Sun), Kaitlyn Greenidge (We Love You, Charlie Freeman), and Yaa Gyasi (Homegoing). This unique event brings together three of this year’s most talked about young authors with the next generation of literary stars. The young writers come from NY Writers Coalition’s summer-long series of outdoor creative writing workshops in Fort Greene Park. This dynamic and innovative program provides young writers a safe space to find their voices and explore all genres of creative writing. Watching NYWC Workshop Leader Kaitlyn Greenidge, who has led writing workshops for the program’s youngest writers for the past eight years, will be especially inspiring for the writers who have grown up in the summer program.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Festival | The 17th Annual Blues BBQ Festival


The Blues BBQ Festival will pair America’s best Blues and Roots musicians with New York City’s favorite BBQ restaurants. This combination makes for an unforgettable summer day on the Hudson River. 2016 Blues BBQ artists, in order of appearance: · Gaye and the Wild Rutz · Cash Box Kings · Bernard Allison Group · Sugaray Rayford Band · The Dirty Dozen Brass Band 2016 Blues BBQ Restaurants: · Arrogant Swine · Dinosaur Bar-B-Que · Fort Gansevoort BBQ · Mighty Quinn’s Barbecue
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free

Tour | Union Square-Crossroads of New York Tour


The tour explores the social and political history of the Union Square neighborhood through discussions of the people, history, architecture, and forces that have shaped this community. You’ll hear how Union Square got its name, see where the legendary Tiffany & Co. once stood, and learn how to read the clock (yes, it’s a clock!) on “The Metronome” sculpture and so much more! This tour takes place every Saturday.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Stitchers club


Knitters, spinners, crocheters, and needle-pointers of all levels are welcome! Please note that this is not an instructional workshop. Please bring your own supplies and come to exchange information, share new techniques, and socialize while working on your projects!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Concert on Water: Classical Music


The concert is at the coolest classical music concerts location in New York City. Program and musicians TBA. Every Saturday.
   New York City, NY; NYC
4:00 pm
Free

Dance Performance | Norte Maar’s Dance


Now in its fourth season, Norte Maar’s Dance offers a residency and performance program that brings New York-based choreographers and their dancers to this unique waterfront environment. Three weeklong residencies will each culminate in a free dance performance on an outdoor stage within the grove of trees. Throughout their creative process, participating choreographers will be in full view of the public, so that visitors can witness cutting-edge dance and movement in the making, then experience fully produced performances every Saturday. Takes place Saturdays from August 6-20.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free

Comedy Club | Deep Dish Comedy Show


This month's lineup: Janelle James Camille Theobald Victor Varnado Gabriel Pacheco Amber Rollo Hosted by:Leo Volf
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
No cover...

Play | Hudson Warehouse presents Shakespeare's Othello


Shakespeare's tragedy, believed to have been written in 1603. It is based on the story "A Moorish Captain" by Cinthio, first published in 1565. This tightly constructed work revolves around four central characters: Othello, a Moorish general in the Venetian army; his beloved wife, Desdemona; his loyal lieutenant, Cassio; and his trusted but ultimately unfaithful ensign, Iago. Given its varied and enduring themes of racism, love, jealousy, betrayal, revenge and repentance, Othello is still often performed in professional and community theatre alike, and has been the source for numerous operatic, film, and literary adaptations. Takes place Thursdays thru Sundays, July 28-August 21.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Pay-what-you-can admission policy

Workshop | Kayaking Class


Each summer, classes in paddling skills and safety techniques are offered. These classes have been developed with beginners in mind, but are appropriate for kayakers of all skill levels. Each session includes instruction on the pier followed by practice time on the water. All participants must sign a liability waiver and know how to swim. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Paddlers under the age of 16 must share a boat with an adult.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free

Dance Performance | Art and Dance: Kalabanté Circus / Iron Skulls and Quim Moya / Sxip’s Hour of Charm


Iron Skulls is a experimental dance company from Barcelona; founded in 2012 with b-boying group called Iron Skulls Crew. Composed by dancers from a few points from Catalonia, identified their personal style and desire to investigate the boundaries of movement. Quim Moya is a visual and avant-gardist artist who explores lot of possibilities in arts and more specifically painting. He has studied in different Catalan schools of Arts and followed specializations in graphic, design and multimedia communications. In 2006, he was co-founder of Candida Company. Sxip Shirey is a producer/composer based out of New York City. He began his relationship with the circus as the touring band and composer for the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus in the late 90s. He then became co-composer and music director for Anti-Gravity’s “Crash Test Dummies” at the New Victory Theater on Broadway. He is currently music director and composer for the international touring circus arts show LIMBO which was developed between Strut N Fret productions in Australia and Underbelly in London with South Bank Center as a co-producer.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free

Performance | Stand-up comedy: ComedyBnB


Enoy free stand-up comedy! Produced by Michelle Slonim, a comedian who was featured on Comedy Central , HBO and on SiriusXM Radio. She plays regularly at Late Night at the Comic Strip, Broadway Comedy Club, Carolines on Broadway and at Solas Laughs.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free

Tour | Midtown Manhattan Night Tour


New York is a skyscraper city and there is no better time to view Manhattan’s icons than after the sun sets and the lights go on. Fueled by competition and a dash of audacity, New York City is still producing one of mankind’s most remarkable skyline. NOTE** THIS TOUR SPENDS MUCH TIME INDOORS OR IN SUBWAYS AND GREAT FOR ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS. Please note they do utilize the subway on this tour so you will need $5 for subway. Takes place Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free

Cabaret | Ms. Kitty's Cabaret, Featuring The NY Troubadours


Music of Mozart, Sondheim, Poulenc, Barber, Adele, Al Jolson, and many more - as sung by students of Cathy "Ms. Kitty" Lawrence. There will be songs, old and new. The NY Troubadours perform acoustic arrangements of hits of the 30s to present day. With guest singers/pianists offering musical theater, opera, and pop selections by composers ranging from Mozart to Sondheim.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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9:00 pm
Free
Complimentary Tickets

to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)

Musical | Hit Show Musical Parody

Regular Price: $58.50
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Classical Music | Choral Work by Haydn and More at a Landmark Venue

Regular Price: $59
CFT Member Price: $0.00
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