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free things to do in New York City
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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 20, 2026?
31 free events take place on Wednesday, May 20 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 20 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.
Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on May 20, 2026?
31 free events take place on Wednesday, May 20 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 20 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.
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!
31 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, May 20, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Outdoor Tai Chi
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
Free
Workshop | Learn To Ribbon Dance
Combine cardio with artistry as you wave long ribbons in the air to create rainbows, waterfalls, dragons and ocean waves. Ribbon Dancing is as visually stunning as it is fun and easy to learn! All ages and skill levels are welcome. Ribbons will be available to borrow, but participants may also bring their own.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Morning Yoga (All Levels Welcome)
Yoga instructor Meg SantaMaria leads a morning practice. Suitable for all fitness levels. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring your own mat.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:30 am
Free
Free
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
Free
Museums | New York City: History, Architecture, Social Movements, Cultural Diversity
This museum holds over 1,5 million artifacts, including photographs, paintings, decorative arts, costumes, and documents that tell the story of New York's development and its inhabitants. Explore the galleries and discover the rich history and vibrant culture of New York City!
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Celebrate Chinese American Heritage & History
Step into a space dedicated to preserving, illuminating, and celebrating the rich history and contributions of Chinese in America. Connect with stories that inspire and bridge communities, honoring the legacy of generations who shaped the American narrative. Walk through galleries showcasing art, artifacts, and personal histories that reflect resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish for New...
pay-what-you-wish for New...
Museums | Wednesday at a Unique Art Museum
Candid, genuine, and unexpected, this is New York City's only museum dedicated to folk & self-taught artists. The Museum celebrates the creativity of individuals whose singular talents have been refined largely through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. The museum's collection includes more than seven thousand works of art from four centuries and nearly every continent--from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works by living artists in a variety of mediums. From critically acclaimed exhibitions and publications to inspiring educational programs and robust community outreach, the museum's mission is to be the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | If Fashion is of Interest to You... An Exhibit of Elegance Awaits!
Best known for its innovation and award-winning exhibitions, the museum has a permanent collection of more than 50,000 garments and accessories dating from the eighteenth century to the present.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
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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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | New York City Hall Guided Tour
One of the oldest continuously used city halls in the nation that still houses its original governmental functions, New York's City Hall is considered one of the finest architectural achievements of its period. Constructed from 1803 to 1812, the building was an early expression of the City's cosmopolitanism. City Hall is a designated New York City landmark, and its rotunda is also a designated interior landmark. Note: When registering, choose the "Individual Tour" option.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Carnegie Hall-Featured Musician Plays Brazilian & American Jazz
Come on down and swing along to the best Brazilian and American jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Luiz Simas. "Luiz epitomizes the fantasies we non-Brazilians have about that wonderful country, and with him, we all get to be Brazilian, at least for a couple hours!" - Judy Carmichael, pianist Brazilian/American pianist Luiz Simas is a versatile performer who feels totally at ease with both the music of his native Brazil and the American genres of jazz and ragtime. Keyboard magazine has described his playing as "sassy, clear and vibrant", and his music as "fresh, smart and witty". His latest CDs are Transparencias (Transparencies), a solo piano CD released by Lydjul Records, and Deuce, a CD of the Simas & Amorim Duo with guitarist Wesley Amorim.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
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
Free
Jazz | Live Jazz Standards (In Person AND Online!)
Relax to the sounds of classic jazz as guitarist Bill Wurtzel and guests perform timeless standards from the American Songbook. This lively midweek set offers a perfect musical break, blending smooth melodies and swing in an intimate setting. Note: Arrive early, as capacity is limited.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Weekly Outdoor Bagpipe Tribute: Honoring 9/11 Lives and Legacies
A moving weekly bagpipe tribute honors those who lost their lives on 9/11, as well as individuals affected by the lasting health impacts of that day. The tribute begins with a performance near a symbolic column preserved from the site, followed by a second performance in a nearby outdoor space.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Afternoon in a Magnificent Small Museum
Internationally recognized as a premier museum and research center, this museum is known for its distinguished Old Master paintings and outstanding examples of European sculpture and decorative arts.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Classical Music | Modern & Contemporary Choral Pieces in a Beautiful Cathedral
A Cappella Choir, Ridge High School - Basking Ridge, NJ. Program: Kinley Lange (1950-) Esto Les Digo Jamey Ray All is Well Daniel Gawthrop (1949-) Sing Me to Heaven Franz Biebl (1906-2001) Ave Maria Moses Hogan (1957-2003) Battle of Jericho
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:45 pm
Free
Free
Film | Silver Linings Playbook (2012): Romantic Comedy-Drama with Bradley Cooper & Jennifer Lawrence
After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, a mysterious woman with problems of her own. Director: David O. Russell Cast: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Jacki Weaver, Anupam Kher, Chris Tucker Bradley Cooper is an actor and filmmaker. He is the recipient of various accolades, including a British Academy Film Award and three Grammy Awards. In addition, he has been nominated for twelve Academy Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award. Cooper appeared on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list three times and on Time's list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2015. His films have grossed $13 billion worldwide, and he has been placed in annual rankings of the world's highest-paid actors four times. Jennifer Lawrence is an American actress. She is known for starring in both action film franchises and independent dramas, and her films have grossed over $6 billion worldwide. The world's highest-paid actress in 2015 and 2016, she appeared in Time's 100 most influential people in the world list in 2013 and the Forbes Celebrity 100 list from 2013 to 2016.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Outdoor Landscape Art Class
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
Free
Gallery Talk | Learn How a Historic Mansion Turned into a Museum
Join a museum educator for a brief gallery talk tracing how a Gilded Age mansion was transformed into a world-class art museum.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | NPR-Featured Ragtime & Stride Entertainer on the Plaza
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
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Book Signing | Making Images & Breaking Objects with Daniel Gordon
Join artist Daniel Gordon to celebrate the release of his new monograph, Objects at Hand. The event features a pop-up with books available for purchase, followed by a signing with the artist from 5–7 pm. The publication highlights Gordon’s Light Study series and includes new writing and a conversation with Lucas Blalock.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
City Walk | Photograph the Streets of Chinatown
Enjoy a stroll through vibrant Chinatown as participants focus on the colors of the neighborhood. This is the perfect opportunity to try something new and photograph a set theme. Or just come enjoy the great company and photograph the city anyway you'd like to. Please arrive early, as there is no planned route and we will be leaving promptly at 4pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Club | Read & Analyze Thomas Mann's Bold & Disturbing Final Novella, The Black Swan
Attend a novella discussion, where the group will be talking about The Black Swan, written in 1952. About the book: The feminine counterpart of Mann's masterpiece, Death in Venice, this book is Thomas Mann's bold and disturbing final novella. Written from the point of view of a woman in what we might now call mid-life crisis, The Black Swan evinces Mann's mastery of psychological analysis and his compelling interest in the intersection of the physical and the spiritual in human behavior.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:30 pm
Free
Free
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
Free
Discussion | Natural History Museum in Vienna-Featured Photographer Discusses His Craft & Career
Attend a panel discussion with Austrian photographer Gregor Sailer, who has long been fascinated by landscapes shaped by human intervention, unusual structures, remote places, and restricted areas. Using an analogue large-format view camera, Sailer creates striking images that allow viewers to enter these spaces that are usually concealed from the public: The self-contained, biodiverse ecosystem of enchanted food forests in the High Atlas; barren food deserts in the icy north; test facilities for the colonization of Mars and the Moon; high-tech production sites for algae, insects, and lab-grown meat; and sealed laboratories for virus and cell cultivation. With precision and clarity, his work reveals how human ingenuity, ecological limits, and global power structures intersect. Sailer will discuss his experiences and findings on this complex subject, as well as the process behind his stunning photographs, compiled in his latest book, Cockaigne, and currently featured in an exhibition at the Natural History Museum in Vienna.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Architecture Experts Discuss Generative AI & Architectural Design (+ Book Signing)
Attend a panel conversation to celebrate the new book from MAP (Metropolitan Architectural Practice), Architecture x Architecture: A Dialectic, a critical dialectic on generative AI and architectural design within an interdisciplinary practice. The conversation will feature Katherine Lambert, Christiane Robbins, and Annabel Keenan, followed by a signing.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Inspiring Hope Through Storytelling
This program welcomes people from all backgrounds to come together in a safe, open space to share ideas, reflect on personal experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Through guided writing exercises and discussions, participants will find new ways to express their thoughts about life and society while developing tools for genuine self-expression. Whether attending a single session or the entire series, each gathering provides an opportunity to connect, listen, and grow within a diverse and supportive community.
This workshop offers a space to rediscover creativity, work through the challenges of modern life, and participate in a collective exchange of ideas rooted in empathy, understanding, and human connection.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Little Africa in Manhattan: Black History and Hidden Neighborhoods (Online!)
Join educator Amanda Adams-Louis for a virtual talk on “Little Africa,” a thriving 19th-century Black community once centered around Minetta Street and Minetta Lane. Home to businesses, churches, and cultural institutions, it was a vital hub of Black life in Manhattan during the late 1800s and early 20th century. This program uncovers the history of this largely forgotten neighborhood, offering insight into its cultural significance and lasting impact on New York City.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Outdoor Evening Yoga (All Levels Welcome)
Strengthen the body and cultivate awareness in a relaxed environment as your instructor guides you through alignments and poses. All levels are welcome. Bring your own mat, as provided accessories are first come first serve. For adults 18+.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Quiet Reading Meet Up
Bring a book or check one out of the library to read to yourself for one hour. After that, spend an hour socializing with those around you!
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Poetry Reading | Multilingual Poetry Night: Quantum Age
Discover the concepts of Quantum Age Poetry and Quantum Poetics with this multilingual poetry event exploringinnovative poetic frameworks.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
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Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | Highly-Acclaimed Orchestra Performs Tchaikovsky & More
Regular Price: $55CFT Member Price: $0.00
Staged Reading | Absurdist Comedy - Vacation Goes Wrong
Regular Price: $By invitation only.CFT Member Price: $0.00
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