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, January 26, 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
January 26, 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, January 26, 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, January 26, 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 (January 26, 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).
22 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Monday, January 26, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.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
Workshop | Lunchtime Meditation (in-person and online)
The sessions are non-denominational and will focus on the basics: meditation to quiet the mind, to focus the quiet mind, using the focused mind for analysis, and using the focused mind to create and uphold a positive vision of and outlook on the world. Other more specific uses of meditation may be discussed however the class is meant for all, beginners and those with a regular practice.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:15 pm
$7
$7
Screening | Looking for Horses (2021): Documentary about Unlikely Friendship (+ Filmmaker Discussion/Q&A)
Enjoy a screening and Q&A with filmmaker Stefan Pavlovic to discuss his film Looking for Horses. Looking for Horses is a film about a friendship between a filmmaker and a fisherman who, after losing his hearing in a war, retreat to a remote lake to live in near solitude. The filmmaker, himself struggling with speech and a fractured sense of belonging, finds in the fisherman both a guide and a mirror. Despite their limitations, a bond forms as the fisherman opens his world to the young man—a world of giant catfish, wild horses, vast silences, and sudden storms. For one, the lake is a refuge from a broken land; for the other, it is a way back toward it. As they search for ways to communicate, the camera becomes their shared language. Taking the form of a gentle western, Looking for Horses is a poetic documentary about trauma, survival, and the fragile work of connection. Director: Stefan Pavlovic
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 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
Festival | Evening Light and Sound Experience
Until February 17th, explore a unique light-and-sound installation after dark. Enjoy the vibrant city energy, with entertainment and special offers from local businesses, turning your visit into a full evening out.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | Experts Explore Elements of Dance in Cinema
Experience a conversation between filmmaker Frederick Wiseman and dance critic Jennifer Homans about the dance elements in his films, with excerpts and discussion ranging from Boxing Gym and Basic Training to Ballet and La Danse.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Historical and Modern Design Spanning Centuries
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 Last of the Mohicans (1992): Epic Historical Drama War Film with Daniel Day-Lewis
Three Mohican trappers agree to protect the daughters of a British Colonel in the midst of the French and Indian War. Based on the novel by James Fenimore Cooper. Director: Michael Mann Cast: Daniel Day-Lewis, Madeleine Stowe, Jodhi May Daniel Day-Lewis is an English actor often described as one of the preeminent actors of his generation. He received numerous accolades throughout his career, which spanned over four decades, including three Academy Awards for Best Actor, making him the first and only actor to have three wins in that category.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Cello Works by Beethoven, J.S. Bach, & More (In Person AND Online!)
Cellist Noa Lia Mogle performs three pieces by composers from various musical periods. Program: J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Cello Suite No. 6 in D Major, BWV 1012 Witold Lutoslawski (1913-1994) Sacher Variation for Solo Cello Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Sonata No. 4 for Cello and Piano in C Major, Op. 102
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
Lecture | From Fieldwork to the Digital World: Rethinking Folk Heritage
Discover how Hungarian folklore research is evolving in the digital age. This presentation looks at how fieldwork, archives, and traditional knowledge are being transformed into open-access resources, making folk heritage more accessible worldwide. The discussion highlights how digital tools can extend, rather than replace, long-standing methods of cultural transmission, ensuring continuity while opening new paths for global engagement.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn & Practice Chess with an Expert
Learn to play chess or develop your strategies with chess expert Tamar Chanadiri from the Marshall Chess Club. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, as each one builds on the previous. Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels and ages are welcome! Chess sets are provided but you're welcome to bring your own. From 6-7 PM Tamar will provide instruction for beginner-level players. From 7-8 PM there will be open play for all levels.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Move, Groove, and Sweat to 2000s Classics
Get moving in this high-energy dance fitness class that combines cardio, choreography, and fun. Groove to 2000s R&B, reggaeton, and pop hits while building strength and confidence. No dance experience is required.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Reading | NYT Journalist Shares His New Book, Dining Out: First Dates, Defiant Nights, and Last Call Disco Fries at America's Gay Restaurants
In this conversation about Dining Out: First Dates, Defiant Nights, and Last Call Disco Fries at America's Gay Restaurants, author Erik Piepenburg takes us on a culinary tour of spaces filled with joy, sex, sorrow, activism, and nostalgia, joined by colleagues from the food world Florent Morellet, Telly Justice, and Camille Lindsley. Dining Out explores how gay people came of age, came out, and fought for their rights not just in gay bars or the streets, but in restaurants. From cruisy urban cafeterias of the 1920s to mom-and-pop diners that fed the Stonewall generation to the intersectional hotspots of the early 21st century. Using archival material, original reporting and interviews, and first-person accounts, Erik Piepenburg explores how LGBTQ restaurants shaped and continue to shape generations of gay Americans.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Expert Discusses Sokrates & the Athens Agora
In collaboration with the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, lecturer John K. Papadopoulos, Director of Excavations at the Athenian Agora, discusses Sokrates while providing an update on some of the great philosopher's favorite and less favored haunts in the Agora, a commercial and political centre in Athens during the Classical period dating back approximately five thousands years. There are very few ancient individuals with the name recognition of Sokrates. Not bad for a person who never wrote anything! Papadopoulos reviews the life and death of this complex, avuncular character, visiting some of his favorite haunts in the Agora -- the Stoa of Zeus Eleutherios, the House of Simon the Cobbler, amongst others -- as well as some of his less favored including the putative "state prison." In so doing, new evidence will be presented and older perspectives reviewed, providing a greater understanding of this fascinating, seminal figure in Western thought.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
7:00 pm
Regular: $50
Member: $0
Regular: $50
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Dance Performance | Dance Works-in-Progress
A high visibility low-tech forum for experimentation, emerging ideas, and works-in-progress held in the Fall and Spring seasons. Artists are selected by a rotating committee of peer artists.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Retro Music Dance Fitness
Come dance to classic pop tunes: Top 40, Disco, Electronic and more! This class is 45 minutes of peppy beats to enhance your cardio conditioning. A low-impact and fun workout; it is open to any fitness level. Let's dance away blue Monday! Instructor: Patricia Collins
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Unsung Acts of Defiance: Stories of Resistance Across the Nazi Era (Online!)
Explore powerful but often overlooked stories of those who stood up to Nazism, from artists risking their lives to satirize the regime, to individuals who infiltrated Nazi ranks to expose atrocities, to investigators who uncovered former Nazis decades later. The discussion traces how resistance took many forms across generations and what these acts reveal about confronting extremism today. The author, Dr. Luke Berryman, a scholar of Holocaust history and founder of a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening Holocaust education, offers insight into the courage and complexity behind these remarkable efforts.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Works by Ravel & More for Flute and Piano
Flutist Rebecca Moranis and pianist Joseph Vaz present a concert featuring the New York City premiere of three works for flute and piano, alongside works by Maurice Ravel and Claude Vivier.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Bassoon Works by Saint-Saens & More (In Person AND Online!)
Bassoonist Robert Thompson performs a series of pieces by composers from various musical periods. Program: Henri Büsser (1872-1973) Cantilène et Rondeau, Op. 75 Camille Saint-Saens (1835-1921) Sonata for Bassoon and Piano, Op. 168 Jean Françaix (1912-1997) Deux Pièces Pour Basson et Piano Valerie Coleman (1970-) Afro-Cuban Concerto
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Cello Works by Tchaikovsky, Felix Mendelssohn, Cesar Franck, & More (In Person AND Online!)
Cellist Lucas Chen performs a series of pieces by composers from the Classical period through today. Program: Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) Lied ohne Worte (Songs Without Words), Op.109 Chihchun Chi-sun Lee (1970-) Goan e Koa Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) Pezzo capriccioso, Op.62 Cesar Franck (1822-1890) (arr. for Cello by Jules Delsart) Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano
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 | Multi-Award Winners Give Insights into Careers of Iconic Artists
Regular Price: $80CFT Member Price: $0.00
Classical Music | "Profoundly Moving" Journey through Song with Grammy-Winning Musicians
Regular Price: $50CFT Member Price: $0.00
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