free things to do in New York City
Free events for Saturday, 05/09/26
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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 May 9, 2026?

23 free events take place on Saturday, May 9 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 May 9 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 May . 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!

23 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Saturday, May 9, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.
        

Workshop | Drawing in Nature


Paint in watercolor or use pastels and other drawing materials to capture the magical vistas of the Hudson River and the unique landscape of the park. An artist/educator will help participants of all levels with instruction and critique. Materials provided or bring your own.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Drawing in Nature

Workshop | Low-Impact, Mindful Yoga in the Park


A 40-minute, low-impact, mindful movement session featuring slow, gentle movements led by multitasking yogi instructor Nicole. This class is designed for all ages. Please bring your yoga mat and arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Low-Impact, Mindful Yoga in the Park

Master Class | Learn African Drumming Techniques & Methods (Familyt Friendly)


Rhythm and grooves fill the air at this Saturday morning drumming program. Follow the lead of professional drummers as they guide you through the pulsating beats of traditional African drumming techniques and methods. Drums provided, dancing welcome!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Concerts, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Learn African Drumming Techniques & Methods (Familyt Friendly)

Tour | Explore Exhibition on NYC Magician History


Enjoy a guided tour of the exhibition on the golden age of magic, Mystery and Wonder: A Legacy of Golden Age Magicians in New York City. This staff-led tour highlights the major collectors and magicians linked to New York City from the 1870s to the 1930s. About the Exhibition: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a surge of magicians began to refine their art, finding larger audiences and building communities of practice, especially in New York City. This period has come to be known as the Golden Age of Magic. The history of magic and magicians has long been documented through text and image as a form of theater. Now, the exhibition Mystery and Wonder: A Legacy of Golden Age Magicians in New York City, curated by Annemarie van Roessel, will display our rich and historic archival materials related to the art of magic and the fascinating lives of magicians performing in New York City during the Golden Age.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Tours, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Explore Exhibition on NYC Magician History

Workshop | Get in Shape: Dance Fitness Class for All Ages


Colorful outfits encouraged at this creative workout that fuses dance and aerobics! Space 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
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Get in Shape: Dance Fitness Class for All Ages

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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11:00 am
Free
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome

Screening | JIG SHOW: Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havana (2025) -- Multimedia Documentary on Early Burlesque (+ Live Burlesque Performance & Filmmaker Discussion)


Step behind the velvet curtain for the New York premiere of JIG SHOW: Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havana, a documentary on a sizzling, untold chapter of American entertainment--where Black brilliance, Cuban rhythm, and early burlesque lit up the big top and defied segregation. This three-part documentary takes viewers inside the legendary Harlem in Havana Revue, featuring Cunningham's grandmother Shirley Bates, former lead exotic dancer, and her father John Cunningham, a San Diego musician raised on the show. Rare footage, never-before-digitized show photos, archival clips, and vibrant performances illuminate the rise and fall of Claxton's troupe, while historians, burlesque artists, and musicians provide cultural context. Director: Leslie Cunningham In addition to the screening, the program features a special pop-up burlesque performance by The Doll of D.C. Bebe Bardeaux, and a post-screening panel discussion with filmmaker Leslie Cunningham, burlesque historians Bebe Bardeaux and Chicava HoneyChild, and facilitated by NYC burlesque artist GiGi Holliday.
   New York City, NY; NYC
1:00 pm
Free
Screenings, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, JIG SHOW: Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havana (2025) -- Multimedia Documentary on Early Burlesque (+ Live Burlesque Performance & Filmmaker Discussion)

City Walk | Curator-Led Brooklyn Art Tour 


This energetic, expert-led experience features visits to galleries, live art presentations, and special exhibitions, with chances to meet artists and explore participating spaces. The tour spans about a mile; comfortable shoes are advised. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
City Walks, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Curator-Led Brooklyn Art Tour&nbsp;

Workshop | Drop-in Drawing: Medieval Inspirations


Discover the joy of sketching with guidance from expert teaching artists. Explore creative drawing challenges inspired by centuries-old art and architecture, and bring your vision to life on paper. Materials provided.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Drop-in Drawing: Medieval Inspirations

Dance Lesson | Learn Heel-Toe-Heritage Dance (All Ages)


Attend a Heel-Toe-Heritage dance class celebrating Asian performing arts led by multitasking yogi instructor Marc. This class is designed for all ages. Please arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Dance Lessons, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Learn Heel-Toe-Heritage Dance (All Ages)

Jazz | Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)


This jam session is open to all musicians. Come and play or just listen to some jazzy tunes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Concerts, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)

Workshop | Field Journaling Session for Mindfulness & Creativity


During this session, you’ll learn simple techniques for observing, recording, and sketching the species around you. Create entries in your own nature journal while practicing mindfulness and creativity outdoors. Please arrive 15 minutes early, class begins.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Field Journaling Session for Mindfulness & Creativity

Performance | Live Medieval Combat in a Major New York Park


See knights in full armor battle it out in the heart of Manhattan. Watch the performers bring medieval history to life with live-action combat, community fun, and outdoor excitement. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks, grab something on-site, and enjoy an afternoon outside.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Performances, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Live Medieval Combat in a Major New York Park

Classical Music | Music on the Water: Works by Mozart & Beethoven for Strings and Piano


Alexandra Joan, piano, with Semplice Players: Katya Moeller, violin; Luke Henderson, violin; Jeremy Kienbaum, viola; Noah Chen, cello. Program: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, K. 488 Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Piano Concerto No. 5, Op. 73, "Emperor"
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free
Concerts, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Music on the Water: Works by Mozart & Beethoven for Strings and Piano

Party | Roller Rink Party with Live DJ


Get ready to roll into the excitement at an outdoor skate circle. With live DJs spinning the tunes, is as much fun to watch as it is to join! Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, bring your own skates and get ready to groove with roller dancing. All skill levels are welcome. This is a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all ages. Children under 14 must wear helmets for safety.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:45 pm
Free
Partys, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Roller Rink Party with Live DJ

Play | Alala & The Scarman: Political Drama by Emerging Playwright


In an unnamed nation that bankrolls American power, a radical student activist leads a campaign demanding her university divest from the United States. At home, her boyfriend—an immortal man who once survived a lynching—keeps himself safe by offering spiritual readings, turning the scar that could not kill him into currency to avoid deportation. As protests rage outside their apartment, the performances that keep them alive begin to erode their intimacy. When survival becomes spectacle, what remains between them that isn’t an act? Written by Silma Sierra Berrada.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Plays, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Alala & The Scarman: Political Drama by Emerging Playwright

Classical Music | Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue (In Person AND Online!)


Enjoy a program of hymns, anthems, and voluntaries for the organ.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Concerts, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue (In Person AND Online!)

Workshop | Accessible Yoga Session in the Park


Enjoy an accessible yoga class led by Multitasking Yogi instructor Michael, featuring mostly seated and reclined movements. Please bring your yoga mat and arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Workshops, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Accessible Yoga Session in the Park
7:00 pm
Regular: $33
Member: $0
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Others, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Pro Soccer Match

Cabaret | Immersive Burlesque Spectacle Celebrating Black & Latine Artistry


Welcome to Harlem in Havana reimagined, where forbidden glamour, beauty, and electrifying performance collide. Brown Skin Showgirls: A Harlem in Havana Tribute Show, part of Harlem in Havana NYC, is a high-glam love letter to Black and Latine artistry. This immersive burlesque spectacle resurrects Leon Claxton's legendary midway show--a celebration of Black and Cuban performers who captivated North America from the carnival stage during the Jim Crow era. Journey through decades of rebellion and desire: the heat of 1940s Black burlesque; the Afro-Cuban rhythms of the 1950s; and the fearless drag and sultry movement of the 1960s. Every act drips with sensuality and modern edge. The night is headlined by Jessabelle Thunder, Miss Exotic World 2026, and hosted by NYC drag royalty Junior Mintt, with a jaw-dropping cast. Dare to indulge? Please note: This performance contains partial nudity and other adult themes. Audience discretion is advised. 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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:30 pm
Free
Concerts, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Immersive Burlesque Spectacle Celebrating Black & Latine Artistry

Play | WINGS // WATERMELON: Historical Play by Emerging Playwright


There’s mean things happenin’ in this land. What's left to do but make a scene? Join the 1500, a group of sharecroppers and tenant farmers from the boot heel of Missouri, as they camp out on the highway to protest the failings of the president’s New Deal. Based on historical and familiar events from people who take to the road. Written by Mo Holmes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Plays, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, WINGS // WATERMELON: Historical Play by Emerging Playwright
8:00 pm
Regular: $51
Member: $0
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Theaters, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Storytelling at its Best from Far Away
8:30 pm
Regular: $50
Member: $0
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Concerts, May 09, 2026, 05/09/2026, Choral Works by Bernstein and More at a Landmark Venue
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Performance | Piercing, Tender, and Hopeful Story

Regular Price: $59
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Classical Music | Highly-Acclaimed Orchestra Performs Tchaikovsky & More

Regular Price: $55
CFT Member Price: $0.00