free things to do in New York City
Free events for Monday, 07/20/26
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City!  Read More

July 20, 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, July 20, 2026!

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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, July 20, 2026!

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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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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 (July 20, 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!

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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!

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Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!

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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
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The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.

So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
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

free events nyc Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution
free events nyc Tony-Winning Broadway Performers Bring Their Music to the Waterfront
free events nyc Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum
free events nyc South Chinese Lion Dance with Opera Acrobatics, Costuming, & More
free events nyc NY Philharmonic & Emerging Musicians Perform Modern Works in a Major Concert Hall
All Editor's Picks ...
        

21 free  things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Monday, July 20, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Workshop | CANCELLED!!! 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
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, CANCELLED!!! Start the Day with Morning Meditation

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...
Museumss, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Exploring Art, History, and Global Cultures in a Landmark Museum

Tour | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial


This complimentary shuttle loops through more than 30 locations across Lower Manhattan, covering major sites from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Financial District and the World Trade Center area. Busses arrive about every 15 minutes throughout the day. Riders can board or exit at any marked stop, with unlimited trips at no cost. Dayly service.
   New York City, NY; NYC
10:00 am
Free
Tours, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial

Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis & Baseball


Today's Schedule: 10:00am - 12:00pm Food: The Kitchen 12:00pm - 7:00pm Tennis Courtside Live 7:00pm - 10:00pm MLB- NYY vs Pittsburgh *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
Screenings, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors:&nbsp;Tennis & Baseball

Tour | Explore a Major 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
Tours, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Explore a Major NYC Park

Workshop | Learn to Juggle in the Park


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
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Learn to Juggle in the Park

Discussion | Journalist & Film Critic Shares His New Book, The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki


A talk with Nicolas Rapold, the author of The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki. A master animator and one of cinema's greatest artists, Hayao Miyazaki is able to imagine and populate worlds like no other director or animator--from My Neighbour Totoro to the Oscar-winning Spirited Away and The Boy and The Heron. The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki journeys through the rich mix of cultural, historical, and artistic influences that shape Miyazaki's storytelling. From Japanese folklore and childhood memories to architecture, classic cinema, literature, and political commentary, it reveals how Miyazaki's deeply personal vision creates layered worlds that somehow feel both fantastical and grounded in truth. With insight into his process, visual language, and recurring themes, including nature, flight, girlhood, resistance, and renewal, The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki offers fans and film lovers a deeper understanding of the imagination behind the magic. Nicolas Rapold is a journalist, critic, and the author of The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki. His writing is published in The New York Times, Sight & Sound, W magazine, Air Mail, Filmmaker, Criterion Collection, The Financial Times, and Screen Slate. He hosts the podcast The Last Thing I Saw with critics and filmmakers as guests, and served as editor-in-chief of Film Comment magazine, which won the Film Heritage Award from the National Society of Film Critics.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Discussions, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Journalist & Film Critic Shares His New Book, The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki

Jazz | Piano in the Park: Broadway-Featured Musician


Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime, stride, and jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with Russ Kassoff. Russ Kassoff is an accomplished jazz pianist, conductor, composer, orchestrator, and arranger, who regularly performs at trio and solo jazz concerts, clubs, festivals, private parties, and even concerts, as a regular conductor and pianist for the legendary Rita Moreno's heartfelt autobiographical shows and Liza Minelli's acclaimed national tour. He has played a number of shows on Broadway, including Miss Saigon, Sunset Boulevard, Cats, and more. As a jazz performer, he has led numerous trios and small groups in venues such as Carnegie Hall and The Town Hall. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Concerts, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Piano in the Park: Broadway-Featured Musician

Party | Fiber/Textile Arts Social


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
Partys, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Fiber/Textile Arts&nbsp;Social

Workshop | French Petanque-Playing in the Park


Members of NYC’s oldest-running Petanque club guide a Petanque-playing session. This French lawn bowling game from the early 20th century is easy to learn, and the boules will be provided. Just bring yourself!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, French&nbsp;Petanque-Playing in the Park

Workshop | American Revolution-Themed Writing Workshop


This second part of an engaging three-part writing workshop will reflect on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, fostering a connection to various American identities. Among other writing and discussion prompts, we will create a “reverse time capsule,” sharing with our imagined Revolutionaries a sense of who we are now.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, American Revolution-Themed Writing Workshop

Workshop | Gouche Still Life Art Session in the Park (All Ages)


This workshop is a tabletop art session using gouache. A varied selection of objects is arranged across the tables before participants arrive, and participants choose their own subject or grouping. No prescribed composition; the goal is looking closely at light, shadow, and color relationships. The instructor sets up and steps back. 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
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Gouche Still Life Art Session in the Park (All Ages)

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
5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Museumss, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution

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
Museumss, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History

Workshop | Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove


This event provides the equipment, instruction, and oversight you need to experience a safe and fun afternoon of kayaking on the Hudson River. The program is beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or guardian) and know how to swim. Come dressed to get wet! Lockers and locks will be provided to keep valuables dry, and on-site changing rooms will be available for use. To save time, you can also sign a waiver before arriving to save time, available at the link provided. Be sure to allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit. You may not get a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before the boathouse closes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove

Film | Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954): Golden Age of Hollywood Romantic Musical


A 1950s MGM musical, Cinemascope spectacular! When a backwoodsman in 1850s Oregon brings a wife home to his farm, his six brothers decide that they want to get married too. Director: Stanley Donen Cast: Jane Powell, Howard Keel, Jeff Richards, Russ Tamblyn, Tommy Rall
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free
Films, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954): Golden Age of Hollywood Romantic Musical

Poetry Reading | United Nations-Featured Poet Reads Her Latest Work


Maya C. Popa reads from her new collection, If You Love That Lady: Poems. About the collection:  The title sequence dramatizes the paradox of correspondence: The private worlds shaped by the act of writing, and the expectant silences that charge our lives. Drawing from nineteenth-century courtship letters, the collection lingers in the rush of love and the resurrection that follows: “Happiness was no small thing, / but neither was its cost.” Delivered with piercing elegance and signature wit—“What a formidable excuse he was. / What a pair of borrowed eyes / with a side of Keats”—these poems teach us that desire, like poetry, depends on revelation and restraint alike. Part elegy to the passing of impossible things, part ars poetica to the possibility of remaking, If You Love That Lady explores the inventiveness of longing and its relentless drive, proving that what breaks us open at last reveals us to ourselves.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Poetry Readings, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, United Nations-Featured Poet Reads Her Latest Work

Workshop | Full-Body Conditioning Workout on the Pier


Enjoy a conditioning class on the Hudson: a full-body workout designed to build your strength, endurance, and agility. This conditioning class will be led by coaches and trainers from PureGym. Please note that participants should bring their own water bottle to class.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Full-Body Conditioning Workout on the Pier

Concert | Rock & Funk on the East River


An evening of music with Kromer.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Concerts, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Rock & Funk on the East River

Performance | Tony-Winning Broadway Performers Bring Their Music to the Waterfront


Broadway star Ali Louis Bourzgui (The Lost Boys, Hadestown) performs! This performance will begin with an exciting new showcase featuring Broadway's next generation of stars. This special opening act will feature understudies from current Broadway productions and shine a light on the remarkable talent waiting in the wings. It's a rare chance to see tomorrow's Broadway stars today.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:30 pm
Free
Performances, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Tony-Winning Broadway Performers Bring Their Music to the Waterfront

Movie in a Park | Good Morning, Vietnam (1987): War Comedy Drama Starring Robin Williams (Outdoors)


Radio funny man Adrian Cronauer is sent to Vietnam to bring a little comedy back into the lives of the soldiers. After setting up shop, Cronauer delights the G.I.s but shocks his superior officer, Sergeant Major Dickerson, with his irreverent take on the war. While Dickerson attempts to censor Cronauer's broadcasts, Cronauer pursues a relationship with a Vietnamese girl named Trinh, who shows him the horrors of war firsthand. Director: Barry Levinson Cast: Robin Williams, Forest Whitaker Robin Williams was an American actor and comedian known for his improvisational skills and the wide variety of characters he created on the spur of the moment and portrayed on film, in dramas and comedies alike. He is regarded as one of the greatest comedians of all time. He received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, two Primetime Emmy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and five Grammy Awards. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket and a friend, and grab a spot on the lawn to watch a feature film on the big screen under the stars. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.
   New York City, NY; NYC
8:00 pm
Free
Movie in a Parks, July 20, 2026, 07/20/2026, Good Morning, Vietnam (1987): War Comedy Drama Starring Robin Williams (Outdoors)
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Performance | Family Show Filled with Wonder and Surprises

Regular Price: $60
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Discussion | Best-Selling Authors on New Novel

Regular Price: $35
CFT Member Price: $0.00