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 15, 2025!
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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 15, 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 15, 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 15, 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 15, 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
37 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Friday, August 15, 2025
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Concert | Conan Gray LIVE, Alternative Singer-Songwriter Performs Live
Kick off your morning with some new-age indie-pop from singer-songwriter (and former YouTuber) Conan Gray. His discography includes hits like "Maniac," and "Heather." 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
Workshop | Exploring Traditional Transformation Through Dance - Open Class
Join Wan Dance from Indonesia for this community workshop inspired by L O N G, a trio honoring Kak Long, a revered traditional performer who preserves the art of Dangkong from the Riau Islands. This workshop explores themes of transformation and gender through movement, connecting contemporary dance with rich Indonesian cultural heritage. All levels welcome. What to wear/bring: Loose, comfortable sports clothing that allows gliding and flexibility. A towel and water bottle are recommended. No street shoes; soft-soled dance shoes or sneakers are accepted.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
$1...
$1...
Museums | Friday at Pop Culture/Art Museum
Through temporary exhibitions, a growing permanent collection, and educational events, this museum examines the significant influence of posters on society and culture, and how they are adapted for modern use. As the first poster museum in the United States, it offers a space for inquiry for anyone interested in design, advertising, and public interventions, with the goal of enhancing design literacy among the general public.
Works explore:
mass communication and persuasion
the intersection of art and commerce
control of the public domain
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
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 about NYC Composting
Confused about what is happening –and not happening– with composting in NYC today? Take a dive with Big Reuse into the rich heap of compost history to get some perspective. Participants will focus especially on the last thirty years of NYC initiatives, legislation, and experience around curbside organics collection and community composting. Through presentations, activities, and discussion, this workshop will explore the many, diverse benefits that result from the simple act of recycling our food scraps as well as the complexities of making that act a real possibility for all New Yorkers. This workshop is for anyone interested in how best to participate in composting in NYC right now and how best to advocate for compost and waste reduction policies that support climate justice.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Jazz | Piano in the Park: "Audacious and Exquisite" Jazz Musician
Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime, stride, and jazz the Big Apple has to offer. "Audacious and exquisite." - The Village Voice Since coming to New York City in 1981, Pete Malinverni has performed locally at Carnegie Hall, Symphony Space, and the Village Vanguard to name but a few, as well as traveled the world giving proof to the statement "passionate music is indeed the universal language". He is listed in Leonard Feather's Encyclopedia of Jazz and has 16 critically acclaimed recordings to his name as a leader in piano solo, trio, quartet, quintet, big band, and choir formats.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Juror #2 (2024): Legal Thriller Film from Clint Eastwood
While serving as a juror in a high-profile murder trial, a family man finds himself struggling with a serious moral dilemma; one he could use to sway the jury verdict and potentially convict or free the wrong killer. Director: Clint Eastwood Cast: Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, J. K. Simmons, Kiefer Sutherland American actor and filmmaker Clinton Eastwood is notable for his role in Westerns, rising to fame in the mid-1960s. Among his achievements are four Academy Awards, four Golden Globes, three Cesar Awards, and an AFI Life Achievement Award. In 2000, he was given the Italian Venice Film Festival's Golden Lion award for his lifetime achievements. And, in 1994, he received the Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, followed by the Legion of Honour in 2007.
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
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
Park Walk | Explore the New Wagner Park with an Expert
Walk through the new Wagner Park with founder, director, and curator of The Skyscraper Museum, Carol Willis. Learn how the park’s innovative resiliency strategies are used to protect Battery Park City.
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
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
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
Poetry Reading | Poetry Open Mic: Share Your Work or Listen to Emerging Writers
Participants can share their original work for up to five minutes. Space is limited to 15 readers; show up on time to get a slot!
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | Artist Talk: The Human Experience in Abstract Art
Join abstract painters Mckenzie Tate Earley and James Oliver Jones Jr. for an intimate conversation about their latest works in their newest exhibition. Discover how their distinct approaches, Earley’s celebration of creative power and connection, and Jones Jr.’s raw, emotive expression, converge to explore themes of joy, trauma, abundance, and the human condition.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Author Reading | Author/Illustrator Discusses Their New Book: When the Tides Held the Moon
Join Author and Illustrator Venessa Vida Kelley as they discuss their new book, When the Tides Held the Moon. Synopsis: In this beautifully illustrated queer historical cozy fantasy, a young Puerto Rican immigrant goes through a journey of love and self-discovery after capturing a merman for a Coney Island sideshow act in turn-of-the 20th century New York. With lush illustrations and buoyant prose, Venessa Vida Kelley blends historical fantasy with epic romance at the turn of the 20th century in this unforgettable New York fairytale of queer identity and found family.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn Some Moves with the Renowned Limon Dance Company
The world-renowned Limon Company Dancers teach the energetic and ease-filled Limon Technique, accompanied by live music. No experience necessary; class is open to all levels.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Gallery Talk | Art in Focus: Slow Looking and Conversation
Take a moment to slow down and connect with a single work of art through guided observation and group discussion. No background in art is needed--just curiosity and openness. This relaxed, welcoming program invites all adult learners to engage deeply with one piece at a time. Space is limited; first come, first served. Stickers are distributed 15 minutes prior to the start of the program.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Movie in a Park | David Attenborough: The Ocean -- A Feature-Length Documentary
Join Sir David Attenborough in this feature-length documentary exploring the health and wonder of the world's oceans. Drawing on decades of experience, Attenborough reveals the spectacular undersea habitats of our planet, the threats they face, and the unprecedented opportunities for marine recovery. With a message of hope and urgent conservation, the film highlights why the ocean is the most vital ecosystem on Earth. Director: National Geographic Featuring: Sir David Attenborough Sir David Attenborough is a world-renowned broadcaster, natural historian, and author. Over a career spanning more than seven decades, he has brought the natural world into homes around the globe through landmark series such as Planet Earth and Blue Planet. He is recognized for his tireless advocacy for conservation and has received numerous awards, including multiple BAFTAs, Emmys, and a knighthood in 1985.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Author Reading | Emerging Writers Reading Series Featuring Debut Memoir Hotshot
This reading series showcases writers from multiple MFA programs around New York City. This event's featured writer is River Selby, author of Hotshot: a fierce debut memoir of a female firefighter navigating the personal and environmental dangers of wildfire fighting. Other readers include Katherine Nolan, Sarah C. Sturgis, Sammy Bittman, Osahon Okundaye, and Sarah Bess Jaffe. Cost of a $5 general admission ticket can be applied towards the purchase of any book or any product in the bookstore café the night of an event.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
$5, tickets required
$5, tickets required
Play | Henrik Ibsen's The Lady from the Sea on the Patio
Hudson Classical Theater Company is celebrating their 22nd season with the esciting show: The Lady from the Sea, a play by Henrik Ibsen. This play follows Ellida, the daughter of a lighthouse-keeper, who loves the sea. Although married, Ellida is restless and troubled by a former romantic attachment. When her former fiance shows up to fetch her, Ellida must choose between her former lover or her husband.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Staged Reading | Buy Nothing, Remember Everything: Celebrating Women's Voices in Theater
Buy Nothing, Remember Everything is part of a theater festival featuring original plays that explore "Agency," this year's theme. It examines power and autonomy across personal, professional, and political spheres, while celebrating women's voices in theater. Written by Jenny Lyn Bader Directed by Ina Marlowe
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Performance | Historic Dance Festival in the Park
This event is New York City's longest-running free public dance festival. The Battery Dance Festival brings together spectacular international and local dance companies, each evening ending with "Everybody Dance Now!"
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Live Original Music Showcase
Enjoy a free evening of live, original music featuring local songwriters and composers. This edition spotlights artists including Mario Cancel Bigay, Madge Mayer, Kevin Berry, and Miles Alexander Blue Spruce. In compliance with the organization's safety guidelines, all attendees are encouraged to stay masked at all times.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Music in the Bandshell: Free Jazz Legend Performs Duke Ellington and More
Bassist and free jazz legend William Parker presents Ellington in Mourning, a moving, adventurous tribute to Duke Ellington's timeless compositions. Vibraphonist Nikara Warren opens with NIKARA presents Black Wall Street, a sound collage that weaves Hip-Hop, jazz, neo-soul, Afro-Caribbean, Afro-Latino, and experimental influences into one bold statement. RSVPing helps you stay up-to-date on show info, but does not guarantee entry. Bandshell entry is first come first served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Music on the Lawn: South Asian Music & Dance
Sunny Jain, the "indefatigable drummer and dhol player" (New Yorker), headlines an evening of South Asian music and dance. Gamelan Dharma Swara brings Balinese music and dance this park for the first time. Organizers lend out hundreds of free blankets on a first-come, first-served basis, or bring your own cotton or fleece blanket. There will also be pre-set chairs, or you may bring your own. To protect the lawn, please do not sit on waterproof materials such as plastic tarps, yoga mats, or inflatable chairs. Bring your own picnic or purchase food and drinks from tents on the side of the lawn.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | We Insist! 2025: Music Honoring the Civil Rights Movement
NEA Jazz Master Terri Lyne Carrington and Christie Dashiell reimagine We Insist! Max Roach’s “Freedom Now Suite,” a groundbreaking 1960 collaboration between the legendary jazz drummer Roach and lyricist Oscar Brown Jr. that has become a defining artistic statement of the Black American civil rights movement. One of the finest jazz drummers and producers of her generation, Carrington has created an homage that bursts with fiery, stirring ideas, unstoppable grooves, and the spellbinding interplay with Roach’s and Brown’s compositions alongside original music and words by Carrington and others. GRAMMY-nominated vocalist Dashiell reflects on the work’s history with a contemporary call to action, honoring the original masterpiece while furthering the fight for social justice.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Movie in a Park | Captain America: Brave New World (2025): superhero action-adventure
Synopsis: Sam Wilson soars into his new role as Captain America in this next chapter of the Marvel saga. With grit, courage, and a newly forged shield, he faces global threats and tests of leadership that push him to define what the symbol truly means. Packed with high-stakes action and heart, this film continues the legacy with a bold new hero at the helm. Rated PG-13 Director: Julius Onah Cast: Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, Danny Ramirez, Shira Haas Movies begin at dusk. Please note that glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. In the event of heavy rain or extreme weather, the screening may be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare's Twelfth Night Outdoors with Lupita Nyong'o, Sandra Oh, Peter Dinklage, & Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Revel in the midsummer madness as twins Sebastian and Viola survive shipwreck, revenge plots, and the trick doors of love. Written by William Shakespeare Directed by Tony Award nominee Saheem Ali Cast: Lupita Nyong'o, Khris Davis, Sandra Oh, Junior Nyong'o, Peter Dinklage, Moses Sumney, John Ellison Conlee, Daphne Rubin-Vega, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, b, Joe Tapper, Kapil Talwalkar, and more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Summer Celebration Ball
Brought to you by icon and activist Qween Jean, night 2 of this 2-night extravaganza is a celebration of ballroom culture, personal expression, and finding community. Featuring a panel of guest judges, neighborhood partners and talented youth, the stage is set for a dazzling display of performances and a vibrant runway.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 pm
Free
Free
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Jazz | "New Star" Blues Musician Plays Legendary Jazz Club
Regular Price: $44CFT Member Price: $0.00
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