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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 August 16, 2026?
35 free events take place on Sunday, August 16 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 16 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.
Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on August 16, 2026?
35 free events take place on Sunday, August 16 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 16 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.
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!
35 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Sunday, August 16, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park
Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels. 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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8:00 am
Free
Free
Festival | Annual Car Show: Unique, Vintage VW Models
VW Grid-lock, the epic vin-tage Volk-swa-gen show, returns! A col-lec-tion of unique, vin-tage Volk-swa-gens from across the years, includ-ing icon-ic mod-els like the Bee-tle, Bus, Kar-mann Ghia, and Thing, will be parked all day for vis-i-tors to enjoy.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
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
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking on the Hudson
A welcoming public kayaking experience and see New York City from the water. Guests will receive basic paddling and safety instruction, be fitted with safety gear, and paddle in a protected area with trained volunteers nearby. No experience is needed, and children are welcome with a parent or guardian. Guests must know how to swim. First-come, first-served, sign-up line often closes early due to high demand.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday at Pop Culture/Art Museum
Through temporary exhibitions, a growing permanent collection, and educational events, this museum explores the enormous impact of posters on society and culture, and how they have been adapted to contemporary use. As the first poster museum in the United States, it provides a space for inquiry for all those interested in design, advertising, and public interventions, with the aim of improving design literacy among the general public. Works explore:
mass communication and persuasion
the intersection of art and commerce
control of the public domain
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Birdwatching | Expert-Led Birdwatching on the Water
A walk around the pier to learn about the birds of Brooklyn.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities
Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park
A welcome multi-level yoga class in the park open to everyone. Bring your own mat.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection of 10,000 items. One of the exhibitions includes famous Tiffany's leaded glass objects and a valuable insight into the development of the inuctry in the US at the turn of the 20th century.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Screening | Untangling: Short Documentary on the Art of Puppetry
A short documentary film about the art and craft of puppetry. Directors: Frances Barry, Hester Heeler-Frood
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Play the Creative Word Game Scrabble in the Park
Sit for a spell and play a game of Scrabble!
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday 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
Workshop | An Afternoon of Community Rowing in New York Harbor
At this community rowing session, after a brief orientation, participants will be assigned to a crew with an experienced coxswain to steer the boat and a mixture of experienced and new rowers. The boats, Whitehall gigs, are stable, traditional working boats for four rowers and a coxswain. No experience is necessary and rowers of all ability levels are welcome! The rowing sessions last several hours and are designed to be excursions: groups row against the tide to a destination, take a break onshore or in a protected cove, then return home with the tide. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please complete the waiver before
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Parade | Celebrate India Day with a Parade, Music, Art, Cuisine, & More
Enjoy a vibrant celebration of Indian culture, music, and heritage in the heart of New York City. The parade will feature colorful floats, traditional dances, live music, and delicious food. Experience the rich diversity of India as performers march down the streets of New York, showcasing the best of Indian art, fashion, and cuisine. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of India right here in the Big Apple!
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Family 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. This program is specifically geared for kids and families, allowing younger paddlers to go solo in single kayaks! Kids aged 7 and older can paddle solo (as long as a guardian is present) thanks to additional on-water safety boaters from The Kayak Foundation who are specially trained to work with kids. 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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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Park Walk | Women's Walk in the Park
This group brings together women from all walks of life to bond, exercise, and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Hundreds of women of all different ages and backgrounds meet to simply go for a walk in Central Park. About 80% of the women show up alone, so feel free to give it a try! Walk locations sometimes change, so make sure to check the group's Instagram page @citygirlswhowalk stories the day before and on Sunday to confirm the meet/walk spot. You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Red Flag of the Future: Political Puppet Opera Film
Mixed media artist Gaylia Wagner created a cast of 20 puppets to enact the dream scenes in a filmed version of a new opera. The puppets are made of found and repurposed objects and trash — food containers, soap bottles, tape, paint, and more. The film presents an original opera setting and a new translation of Masse Mensch, a seven-scene play by antifascist playwright Ernst Toller, written over 100 years ago while he was a political prisoner.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
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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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Solar Gazing on the Pier with Special Equipment
The Amateur Astronomers Association and solar gazing bring solar telescopes specifically designed to safely look at the sun and see sunspots and prominences under a summer sky. 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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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Musical | The Root of It All: A Dentist's Tale -- Surreal, Satirical Comedy Musical (Outdoors)
In a fantastical dream, the dentist enters a surreal world where dancing teeth, an activist Tooth Fairy, and a chorus of very "patient" patients battle the moral decay threatening America's ideals. With ICE agents emerging from giant cavities as symbols of fear and division, the dentist envisions a quest to "root out" hatred instead of people. A brigade of unlikely heroes invokes the nation's immigrant heritage-from its earliest settlers to generations of newcomers-celebrating America's diversity, compassion, and shared humanity. The historic wisdom of the United States promises a future in which the cavities of war are filled with hope and the promise of cooperation and peace. The community awakens from its nightmare inspired and unites to protect its neighbors and secure the child's release. The music will vary in style from Bossa Nova to Hip Hop to Musical Comedy to classical Cantata. The play is a bouncy joyride through the undulations of the body politic, with astute commentary couched in satire, song, and slapstick. Book, lyrics, and direction by Crystal Field. Music composed and arranged by Peter Dizozza.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
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
Free
Workshop | Design Your Own Book Covers with the Sistah Girl Book Club (+ Book Swap, Raffles, Live Author Conversation, & More)
A creative afternoon celebrating books, storytelling, and the art of book cover design. At this interactive event, readers will have the chance to redesign their favorite book covers with guidance from a professional book designer. There will also be a book swap, a live author conversation, music, giveaways, and a hands-on workshop showing how book covers are created using tools like Canva, InDesign, or Photoshop. Guests can submit their redesigned cover for a chance to win a signed copy from the featured author. Come ready to connect with fellow readers, tap into your creativity, and celebrate the stories we love. Please note that participants must bring their own laptop, tablet, or any device to redesign their cover. Limited supplies of craft hands-on materials will be provided as a backup but will not be primarily used for the workshop. No experience is required! Event Activities Include: Book Swap (Bring a book so you can swap it with another Sistah Girl), Live Author Conversation and Q&A, Book Cover Design Workshop, Raffles and Giveaways, Community Networking, Opportunity to submit your book cover design to win a signed book.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century
This historic site honors the early life of a renowned American figure. The restored brownstone reflects late 19th-century architecture and offers insights into the family's daily life. Learn about various exhibits and artifacts that showcase the cultural and historical context of the era, providing a glimpse into the formative years of this visionary leader-to-be. This guided tour is first-come, first-served. It may reach capacity before your desired tour time, so please be sure to arrive early. Tour duration: 45 minutes. This tour takes place at 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists
Berta Indeed presents a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. 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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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Music Festival in the Park: Saxophonist Lights Up the Stage
This festival brings the best local talent to the stage each summer, filling the park with music and movement. Bring your friends, family, and dance moves--all ages are welcome! This performance features M. Alex Ramirez, a Colombian saxophonist, composer, producer, and educator based in New York City. His ideals on music focus on creating honest representations of his emotions while building a community that fosters innovation within the group and audience.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music on the Water: Piano Works by Robert Schumann
Works of Robert Schumann and Inna Faliks, performed by Inna Faliks, piano.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Exploring One of New York's Iconic Fifth Ave Institutions
Designed to inspire, building highlights include:
The only free, publicly accessible rooftop terrace in Midtown
A dramatic "Long Room" with 42-foot-high atrium offering five levels of open, browsable book stacks
Commissioned public art celebrating creativity and curiosity
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:30 pm
Free
Free
Party | Roller Dance Social In a Park 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
Free
Screening | Handmade Puppet Dreams (2005): Traveling Documentary Series on Independent Puppetry Artists
A traveling film series that promotes independent artists exploring their handmade craft specifically for the screen. These films all focus on real-time puppetry, and allow artists to build their vision, and then breathe life into their dreams. Directors: Heather Henson, Alex U. Griffin
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Talk | Live-Radio Romp with Radiolab on Nature & Food
Radiolab senior correspondent Molly Webster takes guests on a journey around the world and through all five senses to reexamine the thing right under our feet, with mind-changing stories about why and how grass, yes grass, is the largest food item in the world. Radiolab is the Peabody Award-winning show that turns deep questions into unforgettable sound, investigating everything from science to legal history to the lives of strangers halfway around the world. Seating opens 30 minutes before showtime and is available on the grass or benches.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
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
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Concert | Taiwanese Trio of R&B & Hip-Hop Acts in the Park
Taiwanese Waves is celebrating its 10th anniversary by showcasing a diverse lineup of artists from across the musical spectrum. This year’s program includes a trio of R&B and hip-hop acts: 9m88 (pronounced “Jo-m-Baba”), a jazzy singer-songwriter with strong R&B, neo-soul, and hip-hop influences; ØZI, a singer-songwriter and rapper known for blending urban American styles with Mandopop; and YELLOW, the fashion-forward avant pop artist with a flair for the dramatic. You’re likely to hear some of their collaborations. They’re joined by Chance Emerson, a relative of Ralph Waldo Emerson born in Taiwan to a Taiwanese mother and American father and a singer-songwriter who explores the human condition with humor and empathy; Mong Tong, Taiwanese brothers who channel Southeast Asian mythology and folklore through the hypnotic rhythms and ethereal melodies of ‘60s and ‘70s psychedelic music; and a DJ set from Chinatown Records, the archival project from DJ and historian yiuyiu that stewards more than 30 distinct vinyl, CD, and cassette collections inherited from her family & neighbors, spanning nearly 100 years of Chinese music and beyond.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
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
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Live Acoustic Evening
Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Ava Franks.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
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
Free
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