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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, May 18, 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
May 18, 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, May 18, 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, May 18, 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 (May 18, 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
31 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Monday, May 18, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Concert | Broadway Musicians & More Perform on 25 Artist-Designed Pianos
Enjoy a special program featuring a vibrant showcase of world-class talent to kick off the "Sing for Hope" season! The plaza will be transformed into an interactive, open-air gallery, inviting the public to play and engage with 25 artist-designed pianos. Following this launch, these 25 Sing for Hope Pianos will be placed across New York City for public play, inspiring community and connection.At this event, you'll be among the first to experience these playable works of art before they head out to inspire connection and joy in every corner of NYC. Starting at 12:00 pm, there will be a special 25th-anniversary program, will featuring performances by the Sing for Hope HandaHarmony Youth Chorus, The Marching Cobras, Sonya Balsara & Rodney Ingram from the hit Broadway musical Aladdin, Ray Angry of The Roots, and Sing for Hope Co-Founders Monica Yunus & Camille Zamora.. Actress Laura Linney will be honored at this celebration.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:00 am
Free
Free
Birdwatching | Family Birdwatching Outing
What birds live in your backyard? Learn the basics of bird watching in this fun outing for beginners, hobbyists, and lifelong birders alike. Together, the group will explore NYC parks, and see what makes this spot a hang-out for resident urban birds and marvelous migrators! Binoculars and field guides provided, or bring your own.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Start the Day with Morning Meditation
Start your day by balancing your mind, body, and spirit during instructor guided meditation. This renowned practice lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and strengthens the immune system.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:45 am
Free
Free
Museums | Exploring Art, History, and Global Cultures in a Landmark Museum
Spend time exploring a world-renowned collection spanning centuries of art, design, and cultural history. From ancient artifacts to iconic masterpieces, these galleries invite slow looking, discovery, and reflection across works that connect global traditions, artistic innovation, and human stories. Note: Some galleries are closed for installation.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
pay-what-you-wish for NY...
pay-what-you-wish for NY...
Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis, Soccer, & Baseball
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 3:00pm Tennis
3:00pm - 5:00pm English Premier League: Burnley v Arsenal
7:00pm - 10:00pm MLB NYY vs Milwaukee
*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
Workshop | Open Play Pickleball for All Ages
Enjoy casual, drop‑in pickleball at the park. An exciting fusion of badminton and tennis, pickleball has exploded in popularity. Open play encourages rotating games, social fun, and friendly competition for players of all skill levels. First‑come, first‑served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Memory Material and Modern Jewish Art
Enjoy a collection dedicated to Jewish ceremonial objects and modern and contemporary art, spanning painting, sculpture, photography, and works on paper. The holdings reflect diverse artistic movements from Cubism and Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art and Minimalism alongside historic and decorative artifacts from global cultures. The collection includes works by artists such as Marc Chagall, Joan Mitchell, Romare Bearden, Louise Nevelson, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol, among many others. Designed with accessibility at its core, the experience offers tours and programs welcoming visitors of all ages and abilities while encouraging cross-cultural exchange through art.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Walk and Creative Writing Session
This walk and writing session is led by Author and Poet Jon Curley. Participants will be encouraged to use observations as a way to enhance their writing styles in any preferred mode.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Tour | Explore a NYC Park
Discover how Bryant Park Corporation successfully transformed "Needle Park" of the 1970s into Manhattan's Town Square of today. The guides are loaded with expertise on the park's rich history, award-winning design, distinct amenities, and ongoing maintenance efforts. Tours will continue as scheduled in light rain, but will be cancelled in heavy rain or inclement weather. Bring an umbrella if needed!
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | 400+ American Masterpieces on View: Day 3
Explore over 400 works exhibited by 18th-21st century American artists. The fair, which is marking its 19th year, features exhibitions by 18 premier specialists. It rund thrugh May 19th.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
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
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Carnegie Hall-Featured Musician Plays Brazilian & American Jazz
Come on down and swing along to the best Brazilian and American jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Luiz Simas. "Luiz epitomizes the fantasies we non-Brazilians have about that wonderful country, and with him, we all get to be Brazilian, at least for a couple hours!" - Judy Carmichael, pianist Brazilian/American pianist Luiz Simas is a versatile performer who feels totally at ease with both the music of his native Brazil and the American genres of jazz and ragtime. Keyboard magazine has described his playing as "sassy, clear and vibrant", and his music as "fresh, smart and witty". His latest CDs are Transparencias (Transparencies), a solo piano CD released by Lydjul Records, and Deuce, a CD of the Simas & Amorim Duo with guitarist Wesley Amorim.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Party | Fiber/Textile Arts Meetup
Are you a knitter? Do you like to crochet? Maybe you like a different type of fiber art? Whichever it is, bring your supplies and lose yourself in the meditative world of creating art with fiber. Invite your friends, or make new connections there. This is a meet-up, not a class.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Choral Works by J.S. Bach & More in a Beautiful Cathedral
Marywood University Chamber Singers. Program: J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Komm, Jesu, Komm Levente Gyongyosi (1975-) Te Lucis Ante Terminum Pawel Lukaszewski (1968-) Crucem tuam, adoramus Ivo Antognini (1963-) Canticum Novum Owain Park (1993-) Phos Hilaron Jan Hellberg Go Down, Moses Moses Hogan (1957-2003) We Shall Walk Through the Valley in Peace Carol Barnett (1949-) My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:45 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Park-Inspired Ladscape Painting Session (All Ages)
Use acrylic paint to paint one of New York's major parks! This workshop will begin with a short color mixing demonstration that will prepare students for making a complete landscape painting. Get inspired by the urban life, flowers, and monuments in the park, then express it with the provided drawing and craft supplies. Adults and kids alike are invited to get creative!
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:30 pm
Free
Free
Party | Community Plant Trade-Off
Meet other plant enthusiasts for a free plant swap. Share tips, advice, and plants in this community event Tips for success: Please bring only pest-free plants. If your plants are in containers, please be sure they are in containers that you are ready to give away or exchange. Rooted cuttings may be brought in a sealed plastic bag wrapped in a moist paper towel.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Film | The Hucksters (1947): Comedy Drama Starring Clark Gable & Deborah Kerr
A World War II veteran gets a job in advertising and finds that his work requires him to often abandon his principles in this darkly funny look at Madison Avenue. Director: Jack Conway Cast: Clark Gable, Deborah Kerr, Sydney Greenstreet, Adolphe Menjou, Ava Gardner, Keenan Wynn, Edward Arnold Clark Gable was an American film actor. Often referred to as "The King of Hollywood," he had roles in over 60 films in a variety of genres during a career that lasted 37 years. In 1999, the American Film Institute ranked Gable as the seventh greatest male screen legend of classical Hollywood cinema. Deborah Kerr was a Scottish actress who rose to fame for her portrayals of proper, ladylike women who often navigated societal expectations and stereotypes. Kerr attracted wide praise for her work, earning six Academy Award nominations for Best Actress. She was regarded as one of the best actresses of her generation. From the 1940s to the late 1960s, she was one of the most popular actresses in the world.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Celebrate Louis Armstrong's Legacy with American Symphony Orchestra Ensemble
The American Symphony Orchestra performs a musician-curated program of Louis Armstrong music, curated by longtime American Symphony Orchestra member Louis Bruno. The ASO Jazz Ensemble honors Louis Armstrong by performing a selection of his lesser-recorded works, including "Cool Cart Blues," "Don't Forget to Mess Around," "Hear Me Talkin' to Ya," "If We Never Meet Again," and "New Orleans Stomp." Featuring Alphonso Horne (trumpet), Zoe Obadia (saxophone and clarinet), Ron Wilkins (trombone and vocals), Steve Benson (guitar), Louis Bruno (bass), and Kory Grossman (drums).
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History
Reconnect with the feeling of community and cohesion that blanketed our city and nation in the wake of 9/11. This is a monument to human dignity, courage, and sacrifice. This museum honors the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993, recognizes the courage of those who survived, and salutes those who risked their lives to help others.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Screening | How To Build a Library (2025): Kenyan-American Documentary on Colonialism & Freedom (+ Discussion with Film Protagonist)
In How To Build a Library, two intrepid Nairobi women decide to transform what was once a whites-only library until 1958 into a vibrant cultural hub. Along the way, they must navigate local politics, raise millions for the rebuild, and confront the lingering ghosts of Kenya’s colonial past. Director: Maia Lekow, Christopher King Film protagonist Angela Wachuka attends this special screening of How to Build a Library, an Official Sundance Selection in 2025, that has been hailed as "a captivating tale of perseverance in the face of adversities" (POV Magazine) and "a thought-provoking study of colonisation, freedom and representation" (Screendaily).
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Grammy-Winning Chamber Music Group Performing French, Jazz, and Folk Traditions
Award-winning wind quintet Imani Winds presents an adventurous program exploring music shaped by French culture, jazz, and folk traditions. Known for dynamic performances and a genre-crossing repertoire, the ensemble bridges classical foundations and contemporary influences.
This hour-long onstage concert is followed by a casual reception where audiences can mingle with the musicians and fellow attendees.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Orchestral Works by Harry T. Burleigh & Dvorak
Orchestra of St. Luke's, joined by baritone Joseph Parrish, celebrates the friendship between Harry T. Burleigh, the pioneering Black American composer, and Antonin Dvorak, the renowned Czech composer, in this evening performance. The two artists' collaboration, rooted in spirituals and folk music, helped shape a distinctly American sound that continues to inspire today.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Staged Reading | Harry Houdini and the Great Beyond: Historical Drama
At this event, playwright Donald Olson debuts a new full-length play, based on real-life events and characters, in which Houdini hires a young private investigator to help him root out fake mediums and spiritualists who have come to haunt America following the end of World War I and the Spanish Flu epidemic. The investigator encounters a world of deceit and trickery whose characters play upon those who are grief-stricken. When Houdini and the investigator set their sights on the most infamous medium of the era, they both face life-threatening consequences. Written by Donald Olson. Harry Houdini and the Great Beyond is a compelling, original play about the interplay between magic, illusion, power, and the mystery of love. Many of Olson's plays have had their first run at the NAC, before going on to national tours
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Haitian Flag Day Celebration with String Chamber Music
Celebrate Haitian Flag Day with an inspiring program of string chamber music honoring Haitian history, culture, and resilience. This performance highlights works by Haitian and Haitian-American composers, blending folk traditions with classical forms to tell stories of identity, migration, and collective strength.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | National Bestselling Author Shares Her New Book, Coyoteland
Vanessa Hua launches her new book, Coyoteland, in conversation with Kristin Chen. About the book: From the bestselling author of A River of Stars comes a funny, heartfelt novel set in an affluent Bay Area suburb where a Chinese American family moves in and sets off a series of scandals, for fans of Celeste Ng and Emma Straub.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Staged Reading | Original Play by Emerging Playwright Matt Shvyrkov
Experience the reading of a brand new, full-length play! Get a first glimpse at what emerging writers are cooking up!
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Performance | Poetry-Inspired Contemporary Dance Program
Experience contemporary dance as you've never seen it before through a performance with the Feledi Dance Group from Hungary! This unique performance, entitled Splinters, was inspired by the poetry volume of the same title by János Pilinszky. Director-choreographer: János Feledi Dancers: Korina Spala, Brigitta Tóth, János Feledi Actor: Zsolt Trill / National Theatre Piano: Mariann Tóth
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Drawing from a Distance: Light, Space & Sculpture (Online!)
Examine fixed-perspective films that feature spaces where light shifts and nature actively interacts with sculpture. Learn introductory drawing techniques and settle into a flow as you create a long sketch. Reflect on drawings and discuss the integration between art, space, and time. No previous experience required. Materials Needed: Pencils, an eraser, and paper.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Tuner (2025): Crime Thriller with Dustin Hoffman on a Rooftop
A gifted young piano tuner's heightened sense of hearing draws the attention of criminals, who see his talents as useful for opening safes as well as for tuning Steinways. With his once-promising musical career over, he works across New York with his mentor Harry Horowitz, encountering a range of characters, including composition student Ruthie, with whom he forges an unexpected connection. Niki's safecracking work threatens his budding romance with Ruthie and pulls him into increasingly dangerous territory. Director: Daniel Roher Cast: Leo Woodall, Havana Rose Liu, Lior Raz, Tovah Feldshuh, Jean Reno, Dustin Hoffman Dustin Hoffman is one of the key actors in the formation of New Hollywood. Hoffman is known for his versatile portrayals of antiheroes and emotionally vulnerable characters. He is the recipient of numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, four BAFTA Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, and two Primetime Emmy Awards. Doors open at 7:00 pm. 8:00 pm Pre-screening conversation with actor Leo Woodall and sound designer Johnnie Burn, moderated by Filmmaker Magazine's Mike Hogan. 8:30 pm film begins.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Comedy Club | Stand-Up Showcase and Surprise Guests
Enjoy a weekly stand-up comedy showcase featuring club regulars, rising comedians, and surprise guest performers. The fast-paced lineup changes each week, offering an energetic night of live comedy and drop-in appearances from established and emerging talent. Note: Guests MUST arrive 30 minutes before the show at the front of the venue to check in with a reservationist to guarantee seating. Seats may be released 15 minutes after the show begins.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:00 pm
Free
Free
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Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | Faure's Masterpiece and More at a Landmark Venue
Regular Price: $65CFT Member Price: $0.00
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