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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 14, 2026!
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!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York, 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 14, 2026. Free shows, concerts, movies, tours are New York (NYC) best kept secret! New York City 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 do not wot till tomorrow, start using these unique New York City opportunities today, August 14, 2026!
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 14, 2026!
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 the City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (August 14, 2026) 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, 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 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
40 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Friday, August 14, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Concert | KATSEYE LIVE: Grammy WInning Pop Group (Outdoors)
A fun start to the day with this performance from girl group KATSEYE. 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. Generally, concerts happen rain or shine.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Morning Yoga on the Plaza
Start your morning off balanced and refreshed with a yoga class led by local yoga instructors Mariah and Frances. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Tai Chi (Outdoors)
Improve balance, strength, and focus through gentle exercises. The sights and sounds of the harbor provide a serene background for the ancient flowing postures.
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 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
Screening | Most Watched International Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis & Football
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 7:00pm Tennis- Cincinnati Open
7:00pm - 10:00pm NFL Preseason- Jets vs Tampa Bay
*Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Dance Lesson | Open Level Contemporary Movement Workshop in a Historic Building
Mailantia Dance Company from Taiwan leads a community dance workshop. Please wear loose, comfortable sports clothing that can allow for gliding on the floor and that offers the least restriction to flexibility. Bringing a towel and water bottle would also be recommended. No street shoes please; soft soled dance shoes and sneakers are ok.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
$1, registration required
$1, registration required
Tour | Horitcultural Tour on the Pier
A walk around the pier to learn about the plants and trees.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Zumba Workout for All
Enthusiastic instruction and easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography working on 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. They typically have guided tours at 2 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Dancing | Dance Movement Workshop: Influential Graham Technique (Beginners Welcome)
Guests are invited to learn Martha Graham's famous technique through the Jerome Robbins Dance Division's audio and moving image collection and the movement styles shown on the screen. Special guest speakers use material from the collection to lead movement workshops highlighting the history of the technique, focusing on the one developed by Martha Graham. Dance Division staff conclude the workshop with instruction on how to use the research catalog and access the materials shown during the workshop. No prior dance experience required.
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 | Art-Making in the Park: Relief Printing
An introduction to relief printmaking, carving a simple design and pulling prints by hand.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Jazz | Piano in the Park: "Masterful" Musician
Come on down and swing along to the best jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Larry Ham. “Pianist Larry Ham is one of the best-kept secrets on the New York jazz scene. He is a terrific accompanist, and a wonderfully creative soloist.” - Jersey Jazz Larry Ham has toured and recorded with many of today’s top jazz artists, and has performed throughout the United States, Europe, and in Japan, Russia, Brazil, and West Africa. David Dupont of Cadence Jazz Magazine writes, “He glides over the keys, with every note articulated cleanly…his playing is masterful.”
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Red Sparrow (2018): Spy Thriller with Jennifer Lawrence
In this unsettling thriller, a Russian ballerina is recruited for a brutal training regime for spies known as "Sparrows." She is assigned to seduce a CIA officer, but is soon tempted to turn double agent and strike back against her cruel handlers. Director: Francis Lawrence Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Joel Edgerton, Matthias Schoenaerts, Charlotte Rampling, Mary-Louise Parker, Jeremy Irons, Ciarán Hinds
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Artmaking on the Plaza with a Professional Artist
Led by a local teaching artist, this drop-in class invites participants to explore creativity through hands-on artmaking. Past mediums have included plein-air drawing, printmaking, cyanotypes, and more. All materials are provided.
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
Film | In the Heights (2021): Musical Drama, Broadway Adaptation
In Washington Heights, N.Y., the scent of warm coffee hangs in the air just outside the 181st St. subway stop, where a kaleidoscope of dreams rallies a vibrant and tight-knit community. At the intersection of it all is a likable and magnetic bodega owner who hopes, imagines, and sings about a better life. Director: Jon M. Chu Cast: Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins, Melissa Barrera, Leslie Grace, Olga Merediz, Daphne Rubin-Vega
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
This jam session is open to all musicians. Come and play or just listen to some jazzy tunes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Explore Collection Featuring Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, and More
Explore a museum's history, special collections, and landmarked spaces. It contains objects of artistic, historic, and literary interest for the advancement of the study of the Spanish and Portuguese languages, literature, and history around the world. Led by educators, the tours last 45-60 minutes and provide an engaging introduction to the artworks and archives on view.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Play Chess & Socialize
Sharpen your mind, meet new people, and enjoy this timeless game. Chess sets and timers are provided. Adults only.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Untangling: Short Documentary on the Art of Puppetry
A short documentary film about the art and craft of puppetry. Directors: Frances Barry, Hester Heeler-Frood
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Festival | A Night of Harlem Flavors
Food, music, and culture come together to create something New York has been waiting for: a culinary celebration that belongs to the people who give this city its flavor.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
City Walk | The Development and History of a Lower Manhattan Neighborhood
This city walk will cover the north residential neighborhood, developed in several phases, beginning with a high school at the northeast edge and the park along the Hudson. A diagonal avenue lined with apartment buildings forms one side of the neighborhood, while the inner courts of the large blocks connect to a neighborhood park.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 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
Talk | Live-Radio Romp with Radiolab on Nature & Food
Radiolab senior correspondent Molly Webster takes guests on a journey around the world and through all five senses to reexamine the thing right under our feet, with mind-changing stories about why and how grass, yes grass, is the largest food item in the world. Radiolab is the Peabody Award-winning show that turns deep questions into unforgettable sound, investigating everything from science to legal history to the lives of strangers halfway around the world. Seating opens 30 minutes before showtime and is available on the grass or benches.
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
Workshop | Discover the Art of the Postcard & Create Your Own
Postcard enthusiasts, also known as deltiologists, are welcome to this program! Writing and communicating with postcards is a longstanding tradition, still embraced by many today. Attend to write postcards inspired by suggested prompts, to swap postcards, and to discuss all topics postcard-related. There will be some limited supplies available but you may also bring your own to embellish a 4x6 card to write on. Postage stamps will not be provided at this program.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Friday Evening at the Famous Art Museum
This special, all-ages evening celebrates the art and the city. Explore in the galleries, get creative with drop-in drawing sessions, and see a film in the theaters. Museum stores and cafe will be open, too, so you can grab a bite, get drinks, or shop for unique design objects. Free for New York State residents but must be reserved in advance (up to two adults), and are subject to availability and proof of residency. Tickets are released one week in advance.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Concert | "A Carnival of Classic Guitar" in the Park: Classical guitar, Brazilian Pop, Punk-Jazz, & Modern Folk
This event highlights global guitar culture, especially here in the United States. Hosted by WNYC's John Schaefer, this evening spans virtuosic classical guitar, Brazilian popular music, punk-jazz, and folk-based improvisations. Artists include: Raphael Feuillatre, Goran Ivanovic & Fareed Haque, Ziggy & Miles, and Gabriele Leite. Whatever you think the guitar sounds like, prepare to be surprised.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Spy Kids (2001): Spy Action Comedy (Outdoors)
Carmen and Juni think their parents are boring. Little do they know that in their day, Gregorio and Ingrid Cortez were the top secret agents from their respective countries. They gave up that life to raise their children. Now, the disappearances of several of their old colleagues forces the Cortez' return from retirement. What they didn't count on was Carmen and Juni joining the "family business." Director: Robert Rodriguez Cast: Alexa Vega, Daryl Sabara, Antonio Banderas, Carla Gugino, Alan Cumming, Teri Hatcher, Cheech Marin, Danny Trejo Bring your own blankets or portable chairs and enjoy this cinematic experience. Limited seating will be provided on a first come, first serve basis, with or without a ticket.This movie screening will have a special surprise activation, photo opportunity, or freebie to create a memorable experience for attendees.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Club | Discussing the Classic Short Story Collection: Borges' Labyrinths
A book club meeting focusing on Labyrinths by Jorge Luis Borges. While your hosts will come with some talking points and questions to kick off the discussion, please don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and ask questions openly. In this collection of work, Borges invites us to throw away the reality we live in for another. or another. or maybe another. With his mix of puzzles, magical realism, and odd language structure he explores our relationships with memory, infinite realities, and the metaphysical. Prepared to be tripped!
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | GRAMMY-Nominated Artist Jadakiss with Hip-Hop Artist Showcase in the Park
A concert celebrating the 35th Anniversary of Lyricist Lounge, the pioneering underground showcase known for introducing the world to some of the genre’s most legendary artists. Headlining the celebration is powerhouse rapper and founding member of The LOX Jadakiss, alongside a lineup of special guests to be announced. Please note: RSVPing helps you stay up-to-date on show info, but does not guarantee entry. Entry is first come, first served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Grammy-Nominated Musicians & More Play Jazzy Tunes in the Park
World-class live music as part of New York State's longest-running jazz concert series. This event features TK Blue and Antonio Hart, playing music by Jimmy Heath, Frank Foster, Randy Weston, and Melba Liston.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Performance | Historic Dance Festival in the Park: Mailantia Dance Company, Ashley Liang Dance Company, & More
This event is New York City's longest-running free public dance festival (8/10-8/16). The Battery Dance Festival brings together spectacular international and local dance companies, each evening ending with "Everybody Dance Now!" Tonight features:
Ina Medhanet
DPRdance
Allpayana Ecuadorian Traditional Dance
Ashley Liang Dance Company
NANM, A Robenson Mathurin Dance Company
Mailantia Dance Company
Arrive early for a special pre-show performance from 6:00-6:30pm under the bridge! Featuring street artists Afiaafia (Sabar Drum Group).
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.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Moliere's Don Juan: Provocative Tragicomedy with Live Music (Sneak Peak Performance in the Park)
Don Juan has abandoned Elvira, whom he seduced into breaking her vows and marrying him. Over the course of a single adventure-filled day, he and his loyal sidekick, Sganarelle, encounter many of the people Don Juan has betrayed. As he seduces women, defies social conventions, mocks religion, and revels in provocation, his appetite for transgression seems impossible to satisfy. Yet the signs are unmistakable: the walls are closing in. Will he truly repent? Or will he just pretend to, like so many around him, and continue down the same path to the bitter end? Playwright: Moliere Translator/Adaptor: Stephen Wadsworth Director: Lucie Tiberghien Cast: Keshav Moodliar, Kaliswa Brewster, Naomi Lorrain, Daniel Pearce, Michelle Veintimilla This work-in-progress presentation will feature live original cello music by Drama Desk-nominated composer Johnathan Moore.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | It Ends (2025): Horror Thriller
A group of recent grads head out on a late night drive for grub, hoping to enjoy one final hangout before their paths diverge. Instead, they accidentally turn onto a never-ending, two lane hellscape surrounded by untold horrors and cosmic forces beyond their understanding. Director: Alexander Ullom Cast: Phinehas Yoon, Akira Jackson, Noah Toth, Mitchell Cole
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy
When the King of Sicilia becomes convinced his pregnant wife has been unfaithful, the royal baby is smuggled to the coast of Bohemia where an old shepherd finds her and renames her Perdita. Sixteen years later, Perdita falls in love with another young shepherd, Doricles, who turns out to be a prince in disguise. Honesty is a fool and true love the only answer in this mysterious, romantic tale of defiance and destiny. Written by William Shakespeare. Choreography by Mimi Lieber. Directed by Daniel Sullivan. Cast: Heschel Bay, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Teagle F. Bougere, Chuck Cooper, Peter Douskalis, Matthew Eby, Raúl Esparza, Isabela Ferrer, Katie Griffith, Alex Hernandez,
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Performance | Family Show Filled with Wonder and Surprises
Regular Price: $60CFT Member Price: $0.00
Concert | Oscar and Grammy Nominee at One of the World's Most Famous Venues
Regular Price: $45CFT Member Price: $0.00
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