free things to do in New York City
Free events for Wednesday, 08/12/26
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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 12, 2026?

24 free events take place on Wednesday, August 12 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 12 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!

24 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, August 12, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Creative Movement Class

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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, An Afternoon of Organ Works by J.S. Bach in a Beautiful Church

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
Concerts, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Piano in the Park: "Masterful" Musician

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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Adult Chorus Session Open to All

Workshop | Exploring the Art of Creative Writing in a Relaxed Environment


This event is an afternoon of live, free-form creative writing. No formal writing experience is required - just enthusiasm and curiosity to see where writing takes you. Participants are provided with suggested prompts at the start of the session, approximately 30 minutes to free write, and the remainder of the hour to share and listen to others' pieces. This is a relaxed forum to experiment with and strengthen your writing. There is the option, but not the requirement, to share your work in each session. Come write freely and meet other people who love writing for the sake of writing!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Exploring the Art of Creative Writing in a Relaxed Environment

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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Learning to Knit in the Park

Film | Chicken Run (2000): Stop-Motion Adventure Comedy


Animated hit about a plucky group of chickens who try to escape from a farm. Directors: Peter Lord, Nick Park Cast: Phil Daniels, Lynn Ferguson, Mel Gibson, Tony Haygarth, Jane Horrocks
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Films, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Chicken Run (2000): Stop-Motion Adventure Comedy

Jazz | Pop-Up Party with Grammy-Winning Brass Band


Dance, sing, and celebrate with Triad Brass - a pop-up party brass band of award-winning musicians bringing you songs from the seventies, numbers from the noughties, and something for everyone in-between.
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Pop-Up Party with Grammy-Winning Brass Band

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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Zumba Rhythms Workout in the Park

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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Salsa Dancing on the Plaza (Lesson + Open Dance Floor)

Workshop | Yoga on the Green: Dual Instructor Class (All Levels Welcome)


An evening yoga workshop led by Colleen Saidman Yee and Rodney Yee, a married couple who both teach the practice. Colleen Saidman Yee is an internationally respected yoga teacher who has been teaching since 1998 and practicing since 1984. She received the title: "The First Lady of Yoga" by the New York Times. She has graced the cover of Yoga Journal four times and has a 12-week online course called Yoga for Inner Peace. Articles about her have appeared in The New York Times, New York Magazine, Vanity Fair, and O: The Oprah Magazine, among many others. Rodney Yee began his yoga inquiry in 1980. His yearning for a life that would utilize mind, body, and spirit was satiated by practicing and teaching yoga. Over the years, Rodney played an instrumental role in introducing and expanding the reach of yoga across the United States. His appearance on Oprah in 1999 helped catapult yoga into the mainstream. For 20 years, Rodney and Colleen have blended their teaching styles, practices, and their hearts and minds. In 2001, with Colleen and Donna Karan, he co-created UZIT, formerly known as Urban Zen Integrative Therapy, which encompasses four supportive modalities that deliver self-care and caring for others and help bring us into the present moment. 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Yoga on the Green: Dual Instructor Class (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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, 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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Sunset Yoga on the Water

Dance Performance | Historic Dance Festival in the Park


This event is New York City's longest-running free public dance festival. The Battery Dance Festival brings together spectacular international and local dance companies, each evening ending with "Everybody Dance Now!"
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free
Dance Performances, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Historic Dance Festival in the Park

Jazz | Lincoln Center-Featured Trumpeter on the Plaza


World-class live music as part of New York State's longest-running jazz concert series. This event features jazz trumpeter and leader of the Latin Jazz Orchestra Steve Oquendo.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Lincoln Center-Featured Trumpeter on the Plaza

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 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, Shakespeare's&nbsp;The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy

Movie in a Park | La Chimera (2023): Comedy-Drama Starring Josh O'Connor on the Pier


Just out of jail, rumpled English archaeologist Arthur reconnects with his wayward crew of tombaroli accomplices - a happy-go-lucky collective of itinerant grave-robbers who survive by looting Etruscan tombs and fencing the ancient treasures they dig up. Director: Alice Rohrwacher Cast: Josh O'Connor, Carol Duarte, Vincenzo Nemolato, Alba Rohrwacher, Isabella Rossellini Josh O'Connor is an English actor. From 2016 to 2019, he had a major role portraying Larry Durrell in ITV's The Durrells. He had his breakthrough playing the lead role of a closeted sheep farmer in Francis Lee's romantic drama God's Own Country, for which he won the BIFA Award for Best Actor. 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
8:30 pm
Free
Movie in a Parks, August 12, 2026, 08/12/2026, La Chimera (2023): Comedy-Drama Starring Josh O'Connor 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