free things to do in New York City
Free events for Wednesday, 08/05/26
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City!  Read More

Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on August 5, 2026?

29 free events take place on Wednesday, August 5 in New York City. Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides! Exciting, high quality, unique and off the beaten path free events and free things to do take place in New York today, tonight, tomorrow and each day of the year, any time of the day: whether it's a weekday or a weekend, day or night, morning or evening or afternoon, December or July, April or November! These events will take your breath away!

New York City (NYC) never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment. Check out August 5 and see for yourself. Summer or Winter, Spring or Fall! Just click on any day of the calendar above and you'll find most inspiring and entertaining free events to go to and free things to do on each day of August . Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides!

Some events take place all year long: same day of the week, same time there are there for you to take advantage of. One of the oldest free weekly events in Manhattan is Dixieland Jazz with the Gotham Jazzmen, which happen at noon every Tuesday. Another example of an event that you can attend all year round on weekdays is Federal Reserve Bank Tour, which takes place every week day at 1 pm (but advanced reservations are required). You can take at least 13 free tours every day of the year, except the New Year Day, July 4th, and the Christmas Day. If you are classical music afficionado, you can spend whole day in New York going from one free classical concert to another. If you love theater, then New York gives you an option to attend plays and musicals free of charge, or at deep discount. You just need to have information about it. And we are here to make that information available to you.
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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!

29 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, August 5, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.
        

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
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Tai Chi (Outdoors)

Workshop | Artist-Led Figure Drawing in the Park


Placed in a unique setting, a model will strike short and long poses for participants to sketch and draw. An artist/ educator will offer constructive suggestions and critique. Drawing materials provided, or bring your own.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Artist-Led Figure Drawing in the Park

Dance Lesson | Creative Movement Class


Dances for a Variable Population leads creative movement classes for adults of all ages and abilities, with a focus on seniors. Seating is limited, unreserved, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Dance Lessons, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Creative Movement Class

Performance | Grammy-Nominated Funk, Hip-Hop, & Rock Musician-Led Storytime Performance


Musician Divinity Roxx leads a musical storytime where she brings her music to life for kids of all ages! Divinity Roxx is a multi-talented, two-time GRAMMY-nominated artist and musician whose genre-spanning sound combines elements of funk, Hip-Hop, and rock, breaking conventional barriers and inspiring musicians worldwide. Her musical compositions have been adapted into children’s books by Scholastic and featured on television and in the theater.  There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Performances, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Grammy-Nominated Funk, Hip-Hop, & Rock Musician-Led Storytime Performance

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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12:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, French&nbsp;Petanque-Playing in the 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, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Learn to Juggle in the Park

Classical Music | An Afternoon of Organ Works by J.S. Bach in a Beautiful Church


Take a momentary respite from a busy day to enjoy a selection of organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach in an intimate venue.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:20 pm
Free
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, An Afternoon of Organ Works by J.S. Bach in a Beautiful Church

Jazz | Piano in the Park: Musician Who's Collaborated with Donna Summer & More


Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime, stride, and jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Dan Manjovi. “…wonderful songs, wonderful sound, and a voice that is so rich, expressive, and powerful.” - David Kenney, WBAI Radio (Pacifica) Dan Manjovi is an award-winning vocalist, pianist, actor, writer, and teacher. His original music and arrangements have been featured in film, stage, and television, and sung by legends such as Donna Summer and Michael Feinstein. His song, "Somethin’s Comin’ My Way" was featured in the Academy Award-winning film Precious. Manjovi is a regular presence in New York’s top music venues, such as The Bitter End, The Carlyle Room, Feinstein’s/54 Below, and the Laurie Beechman Theatre.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Piano in the Park: Musician Who's Collaborated with Donna Summer & More

Workshop | Adult Chorus Session Open to All


Directed by Church Street School of Music, the Downtown Beats adult chorus is open to all who love to sing! Learn contemporary and classic songs and perform at community events throughout the year.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Adult Chorus Session Open to All

Performance | Grammy-Nominated Funk, Hip-Hop, & Rock Musician-Led Storytime Performance


Musician Divinity Roxx leads a musical storytime where she brings her music to life for kids of all ages! Divinity Roxx is a multi-talented, two-time GRAMMY-nominated artist and musician whose genre-spanning sound combines elements of funk, Hip-Hop, and rock, breaking conventional barriers and inspiring musicians worldwide. Her musical compositions have been adapted into children’s books by Scholastic and featured on television and in the theater.  There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Performances, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Grammy-Nominated Funk, Hip-Hop, & Rock Musician-Led Storytime Performance

Workshop | Learning to Knit in the Park


This beginner class is taught by Knitty City. Volunteers are available to teach you how to cast, knit, purl, and more! Yarn and needles are provided.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Learning to Knit in the Park

Film | Kindergarten Cop (1990): Action Comedy with Arnold Schwarzenegger


A tough cop must pose as a kindergarten teacher in order to locate a dangerous criminal's ex-wife, who may hold the key to putting him behind bars. Director: Ivan Reitman Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Penelope Ann Miller, Pamela Reed, Linda Hunt, Richard Tyson, Carroll Baker Arnold Schwarzenegger is an Austrian and American actor, businessman, film producer, politician, and former professional bodybuilder. A member of the Republican Party, he served as the 38th governor of California from 2003 to 2011.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free
Films, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Kindergarten Cop (1990): Action Comedy with Arnold Schwarzenegger

Workshop | Landscape Art Class (Outdoors)


Artists of all skill levels can be inspired by park surroundings to create with drawing materials, pastels, and watercolors. Embolden your artwork amidst the flower-filled and seasonally evolving palette of verdant gardens. An artist/educator will provide ideas and instruction. Materials provided, and artists are encouraged to bring their own favorite media.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Landscape Art Class (Outdoors)

Jazz | NPR-Featured Ragtime & Stride Entertainer in the Park


Hit your stride with ragtime, stride, and jazz veteran Terry Waldo and his Gotham City Band. The protege of the late Eubie Blake, he has produced over 40 albums and written the definitive book on ragtime, This is Ragtime - republished recently by Jazz At Lincoln Center.
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, NPR-Featured Ragtime & Stride Entertainer in the Park

Workshop | Kayaking on the East River


Glide along the water this summer in an East River embayment with a kayaking session! All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers -- life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Register for a 20-minute time slot. Please note this event is subject to change due to weather or other extenuating circumstances
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Kayaking on the East River

Party | Play Settlers of Catan: All Levels Welcome


Play one of the most popular board games in the world. Organizers welcome players of all levels to this social! These socials are limited to 16 players, with 2 rounds. Organizers ask that participants arrive 15 minutes early to sign up.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Partys, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Play Settlers of Catan: All Levels Welcome

Workshop | Zumba Rhythms Workout in the Park


Welcome to Zumba with DeeKee in the park! Participants dance, sweat, and have a great time with friends and fellow Zumba enthusiasts. No experience is required, just come with a positive attitude and be ready to move your body to the rhythm of the music. Weather permitting. Please arrive 10 minutes before class begins.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Zumba Rhythms Workout in the Park

Dance Performance | Naiad Meta: Avant-Garde Japanese-Style Modern Dance Emulating Both FIgure & Landscape


A new work, this performance is a Butoh solo by Vangeline that merges ancient myth with modern architecture. Emerging within water and reflection, the body becomes both figure and landscape—soft yet reflective, vulnerable yet enduring. The performance unfolds as a quiet ritual encounter, transforming the outdoor space into a site of contemplation. The choreographic work features stunning costumes by Machine Dazzle with music by Michael Shannon.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Dance Performances, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Naiad Meta: Avant-Garde Japanese-Style Modern Dance Emulating Both FIgure & Landscape

Party | Board Games Meet-Up


This event features a variety of board games, including Scrabble, Chess, Boggle, Bananagrams, Scattergories, and more! Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels are welcome. Studies have shown that playing board games can have positive effects on your mental, emotional, and physical health, including: o Improving memory and focus o Enhancing critical thinking skills o Making connections o Reducing stress (and screen time!)
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Partys, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Board Games Meet-Up

Dancing | Salsa Dancing on the Plaza (Lesson + Open Dance Floor)


Teachers with Mi Salsa Dura Baile lead an evening of Latin rhythm and dancing! Each class starts off with a lesson followed by an open dance floor.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free
Dancings, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Salsa Dancing on the Plaza (Lesson + Open Dance Floor)

Workshop | Yoga on the Green: New York Times-Featured Instructor (All Levels Welcome)


An evening yoga class led by Pilin Anice, E-RYT 500, who is a yoga, barre, dance, and meditation instructor, health coach, artist, model, and the creator of the Pilin Anice Lifestyle App (PAL App). For over 15 years, she has guided students of all ages through breath-centered, inquiry-based offerings that seek to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit. Pilin is passionate about building community and has taught workshops in the US and abroad. A graduate of Howard University and the Integrative Institute of Nutrition, she is currently Lead Faculty at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health, The Ailey Extension, and recently joined Gaja Collective as a 200-Hour Chopra Yoga Teacher Training Mentor. Pilin has been featured on GMA, The Today Show, NY Times, Dance Spirit, FORBES, ESSENCE, Well+Good, MindBodyGreen, and SELF.  Bring your own mat (the park does not provide mats). Organizers also recommend bringing water and a towel. This yoga class is appropriate for all levels.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Yoga on the Green: New York Times-Featured Instructor (All Levels Welcome)

Workshop | Learn the Art of Ballroom Dancing in the Park


Fitness, fun, and fancy footwork! Ballroom Basix provides physical, social, emotional, and multicultural engagement through the etiquette and education of non-competitive Ballroom & Latin partner dancing. This class energizes, entertains, and educates teachers, students, their families, and communities while emphasizing the poise and politeness this program promotes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Learn the Art of Ballroom Dancing in the Park

Workshop | Sunset Yoga on the Water


End your day with yoga in a beautiful sunset setting, led by Meg SantaMaria of Roadside Yogi. Suitable for all fitness levels. Please wear comfortable and bring your own mat. Seating is limited, unreserved, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Sunset Yoga on the Water

Jazz | Eubie Blake Award-Winning Saxophonist on the Plaza


World-class live music as part of New York State's longest-running jazz concert series. This event features jazz tenor saxophonist and record producer Houston Person.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Eubie Blake Award-Winning Saxophonist on the Plaza

Concert | Indie/Folk Rock Band Lights Up the Stage


Hurray for the Riff Raff brings their poignant songs, most recently captured on their first live album Live Forever—to the stage. It's a homecoming for bandleader Alynda Segarra, who grew up in The Bronx before exploring New Orleans, Chicago, and beyond. Hurray for the Riff Raff's sound is equally expansive: broadly indie/folk rock, drawing on influences from contemporaries like Bright Eyes to legends like Lucinda Williams. Segarra, who serves as lead vocalist and principal songwriter, crafts lyrics that are both deeply personal and universal.  There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Indie/Folk Rock Band Lights Up the Stage

Classical Music | Orchestral Works by Robert Schumann & More in a Major Concert Hall


The evening opens with a new work by rising composer Hannah Ishizaki, written in response to Robert Schumann’s Symphony No. 1, performed by Festival Orchestra of Lincoln Center. Conductor Jonathon Heyward then joins Ishizaki on stage for a conversation about the inspiration behind the piece and its connection to Schumann’s music. Through discussion and musical excerpts from both works, audiences are invited into the creative process and the artistic dialogue between composer and orchestra. The evening culminates with a performance of Schumann’s Symphony No. 1 in its entirety, bringing the journey full circle. No prior knowledge required—just come ready to listen, learn, and experience the music in a new way! Program: Hannah Ishizaki Change Thy Course  Robert Schumann (1810-1856) Symphony No. 1, “Spring”
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
pay-what-you-wish, tickets required
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Orchestral Works by Robert Schumann & More in a Major Concert Hall

Classical Music | Peabody Award-Winning Musicians Perform Contemporary Solos & Duets for Viola and Cello


Violist and conductor Nadia Sirota curates an evening of fresh ideas and groundbreaking voices in contemporary composition. Her singular sound and expressive execution have served as muse to dozens of composers, including Nico Muhly, Missy Mazzoli, Marcos Balter, and David Lang. As a soloist, Sirota has performed with orchestras around the world, releasing four albums of commissioned music. She is a member of the chamber sextet yMusic and has appeared on records and concert stages with such artists as The National, David Bowie, Björk, Paul Simon, Ben Folds, and ANOHNI. For her headlining performance, Sirota will be joined by cellist Gabriel Cabezas to share a program of solos and duets written by a host of composers that includes Marcos Balter, Orlando Gibbons, Nico Muhly, and Alyssa Weinberg. There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Peabody Award-Winning Musicians Perform Contemporary Solos & Duets for Viola and Cello

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
Plays, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, Shakespeare's&nbsp;The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy

Movie in a Park | The Good Dinosaur (2015): Pixar Animated Comedy-Adventure Film on the Pier


The film explores an alternate history where non-avian dinosaurs never became extinct, following a young, timid Apatosaurus named Arlo living on a farm with his family, who meets an unlikely human friend named Spot while traveling through a dangerous and mysterious landscape in order to return home, after being washed downriver. Director: Peter Sohn Cast: Raymond Ochoa, Jack Bright, Sam Elliott, Anna Paquin, A. J. Buckley, Steve Zahn, Jeffrey Wright Pack a picnic, bring a friend, and settle in for a night of premier movies on the Pier. Film begins at dusk. Open Captioned.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 pm
Free
Movie in a Parks, August 05, 2026, 08/05/2026, The Good Dinosaur (2015): Pixar Animated Comedy-Adventure Film on the Pier
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Performance | Erotic Burlesque Show

Regular Price: $135
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Staged Reading | Broadway Performer in a Story of Courage, Faith, and Survival

Regular Price: $By invitation only
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Performance | "Epic" True Story with Broadway Actor

Regular Price: $69
CFT Member Price: $0.00