free things to do in New York City
Free events for Tuesday, 12/16/25
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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 December 16, 2025?

33 free events take place on Tuesday, December 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 December 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 December . 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!

33 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Tuesday, December 16, 2025

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Tuesday at a Unique Art Museum
free events nyc Familiar Seasonal Tunes with a Klezmer Twist
free events nyc Piano Works by Prokofiev, Rachmaninoff, and Schubert
free events nyc Emma (2020): Period Romantic Comedy, Jane Austen Adaptation with Anya Taylor-Joy
free events nyc Live Menorah Lighting
free events nyc Jazz Legends on Film: A Rare Archival Showcase
More Editor's Picks for 12/16/25
        

Workshop | Central Park Running Session (All Levels Welcome)


If you prefer not to run alone or are looking to improve your running performance, you can run with a club! Open to runners of all levels. Weekly changed routes through the park. Coaches, training, running company and inspiration!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 am
Free

Workshop | Adult Zumba


Featuring easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography. Work on your balance, coordination and range of motion.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free

Tour | All About the Garment District: Fashion, History, Immigrants


Join born and raised New Yorker, Mike, in exploring the Garment District of New York. Learn about the apparel industry developed in New York and how it came to be located in its current district. Expect to hear about iconic designers Ralph, Oscar, and Calvin, as well as the Gangsters and Labor Unions that shaped New York and this District. Tour Guide Mike has spent the greater portion of his life working in the Garment industry himself -- expect first-hand anecdotes and wisdom
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free

Fair | Holiday Market Featuring Local Artisans and Seasonal Gifts


Explore a festive holiday market known for its inviting atmosphere and curated selection of local makers. Visitors can browse aisles filled with handcrafted art, jewelry, home goods, and seasonal treats, offering a lively destination for gift shopping and winter strolling.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Museums | Tuesday 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
11:30 am
Free

Concert | Familiar Seasonal Tunes with a Klezmer Twist


Celebrate the holiday season with this concert featuring the Brooklyn Klezmer Trio performing a variety of seasonal favorites. Led by Ilya Sneiveiss, Brooklyn Klezmer Trio is a New York ensemble of musicians specializes in presenting the very best of Klezmer music. Sneiveiss is a freelance musician, player of accordion and various other instruments (percussion, guitar, keys, winds), bandleader, conductor, teacher, arranger, composer and producer of creative content in the field of Yiddish music, traditional and contemporary.
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Learn How To Take Professional Headshots


If you’re interested in offering headshots for actors, this class is for you. Jeff Carpenter from Readylight Media gives a real-time look at how he creates acting headshots from the first frame to the final capture. Working with actor Sarah Pribis, Jeff will take you through the session in real time and show how every adjustment helps shape headshots that will grab the attention of casting directors. You’ll see how Jeff uses Profoto lighting and light shapers to highlight character traits, build different looks, and create images that speak to a range of roles. The class follows the entire shoot as it unfolds, showing how subtle shifts in light, expression, and direction can completely change the story behind an image.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Piano Works by Prokofiev, Rachmaninoff, and Schubert


Chinese pianist Wynona Wang has captured the attention of audiences around the world. Praised for her "concentrated intensity...commanding sweep, power, and cohesion" (International Piano), PROGRAM Prokofiev Sonata No. 7 in B-flat major, Op. 83 Rachmaninoff Romance, Op. 21, No. 5, "Lilacs" Rachmaninoff Romance, Op. 38, No. 3, "Daisies" Schubert/Liszt Auf dem Wasser zu Singen Schubert/Liszt Gretchen am Spinnrade Schubert Fantasy in C major, D. 760, "Wanderer"
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
Free

Book Discussion | Pulitzer Prize Finalist John Cassidy on Capitalism and Its Critics (Online!) 


Join Pulitzer Prize finalist John Cassidy for a discussion of his sweeping new history, Capitalism and Its Critics. Examining global capitalism through the voices of its detractors, Cassidy traces a lineage from early industrial resistance movements to contemporary debates on inequality, ecological crisis, technological change, and authoritarianism. Blending biography, historical analysis, and economic theory, the talk offers an expansive look at the thinkers and movements that have challenged capitalism across centuries.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue


Enjoy a program of hymns, anthems, and voluntaries for the organ.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:20 pm
Free

Film | Violent Night (2022): Christmas Action Comedy


Fed up ex-Viking Santa Claus becomes embroiled in a violent hostage situation when mercenaries attack the estate of a wealthy family on Christmas Eve. Copious cartoonish Christmas carnage ensues. Director: Tommy Wirkola Cast: David Harbour, John Leguizamo, Alex Hassell, Alexis Louder
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Jazz | An Afternoon Celebrating Mary Lou WIlliams (Concert + Screening)


This afternoon program begins with an intimate performance by pianist and composer, Camila Cortina Bello. Bello will perform next to Aaron Douglas’s rousing four-panel mural, “Aspects of Negro Life” (1937) currently installed in the gallery as part of the exhibition,100: A Century of Collections, Community, and Creativity. The performance will be followed by a screening of an interview with the late Jazz pianist, Mary Lou Williams. Mary Lou Williams (1910-1981) was not only the First Lady of jazz; she has a place at the very top echelon of the jazz pantheon. Ms. Williams wrote over 350 compositions throughout her rich and highly eclectic musical career. She also helped spawn an entire generation of young musicians during the 1940s that would precipitate the birth of one of the world’s most influential musical styles, known as bebop.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Poetry Reading | Holiday Poetry Discussion


Attend with fellow poetry enthusiasts to unpack the layered meanings of poetry through an informal group discussion. This December, celebrate the season with heartwarming poems about gathering, holidays, and community. Please note that contemporary poetry deals frankly with contemporary issues and all works discussed are artistic expressions selected for an adult audience.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:30 pm
Free

Film | Broke (2025): Western Drama with Dennis Quaid


You work all week, yet struggle to make ends meet during a cost of living crisis. Broke tells the story of the people behind the headlines, doing their best to survive at a time of rising food, energy, and housing costs. Director: Carlyle Eubank Cast: Wyatt Russell, Dennis Quaid, Auden Thornton, Mary McDonnell
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free

Workshop | How To Pack for Travel Photography


When traveling it's always best to have a compact and mobile kit that works for your personal style of image making, a skill you will learn through this workshop. Award-winning photographer Ira Block has travelled the world carrying way too much gear, and over the years has come up with ways to work quicker and lighter. At this event he will also show you how to add small portable light to your subject that will give you a distinct look when doing travel portraits and will help you when you are shooting in great 'moody' environments. He will discuss what lenses seem to work the best for him when photographing subjects that are shy about having their photo taken. Besides camera and lighting gear organizers will discuss and show various accessories that will make your travel photography easier and help you produce unique looking images.
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:00 pm
Free

Gallery Talk | Inside the Exhibition: A Curator’s Perspective


Explore select works in the exhibition with museum experts, including curators, conservators, scientists, and scholars. Gain fresh insights and uncover lesser-known stories behind the objects on view, with time for close looking and conversation. Participants are invited to ask questions throughout this focused, insider-led session. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free

Book Club | Discuss I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy


Enjoy a discussion over the heartbreaking and hilarious memoir by iCarly and Sam & Cat star Jennette McCurdy. It's about her struggles as a former child actor—including eating disorders, addiction, and a complicated relationship with her overbearing mother—and how she retook control of her life. Told with refreshing candor and dark humor, I’m Glad My Mom Died, is an inspiring story of resilience, independence, and the joy of shampooing your own hair.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free

Film | Emma (2020): Period Romantic Comedy, Jane Austen Adaptation with Anya Taylor-Joy


A well-meaning but self-centered young woman interferes in her friends' love lives. Director: Autumn de Wilde Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Johnny Flynn, Josh O'Connor, Callum Turner, Mia Goth, Miranda Hart, Bill Nighy Anya Taylor-Joy is an actress who has won several accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and a nomination for a Primetime Emmy. She's known for her roles in The Witch (2015), Split (2016), Thoroughbreds (2017), Peaky Blinders (2019-2022), The Queen's Gambit (2020), Last Night in Soho (2021), The Northman (2022), The Gorge (2025), The Menu (2022), The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), and Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024).
   New York City, NY; NYC
4:45 pm
Free

Classical Music | Piano Works by J.S. Bach, Scriabin, Rachmaninoff, & More (In Person AND Online!)


Pianist Nabeel Hayek performs a series of pieces by composers from various musical eras. Program: Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) (arr. Earl Wild) In the Silent Night, Op. 4, No. 3 Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) Désir, Op. 57, No. 1 Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) Sonata No. 7, Op. 64 "White Mass" Enrique Granados (1867-1916) Goyescas: IV. Quejas, O La Maja y el Ruiseñor (The Maiden and the Nightingale) Isaac Albéniz (1860-1909) Iberia, T. 105 / Book IV: No. 10, Málaga J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Keyboard Concerto in E Major, BWV 1053
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Contemporary Works by Emerging Composer (In Person AND Online!)


Juilliard musicians perform works by emerging composer Emre Şener. All Emre Şener (2001-) Program: Traumbild Tear Tragedya (I) Tragedya (II) Tragedya (III) Traummaler
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
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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5:30 pm
Free

Festival | Live Menorah Lighting


Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a live Menorah lighting.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:30 pm
Free

Author Reading | Chanukah Folktales from the Village of Chelm (Online!)


Celebrate Chanukah with author and storyteller Izzy Abrahmson, who shares humorous and heartwarming tales from his fictional Jewish village of Chelm, where wisdom and foolishness often look the same. Drawing from his book Winter Blessings, a finalist for the National Jewish Book Awards, Abrahmson offers an hour of original stories inspired by classic Yiddish folklore, filled with laughter, community, and holiday spirit.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish, registration required

Book Discussion | Historian & Journalist Shares His New Book: The Devil Reached Toward the Sky


Marking the 80th anniversary of the year of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings, bestselling historian and journalist Garrett Graff speaks about his new book, The Devil Reached Toward the Sky: An Oral History of the Making and Unleashing of the Atomic Bomb. Comprehensive and engrossing, the book delivers the remarkable—and terrifying—story of the atomic bomb’s creation and deployment, woven from the voices of hundreds of scientists, generals, soldiers, and civilians. The author will be in conversation with Jonathan F. Fanton Director of Roosevelt House Harold Holzer. The development of the atomic bomb, Graff writes, was the most audacious undertaking in human history—beginning with a small group of scientists and engineers rushing in complete secrecy to unlock “the most fundamental power of the universe.” Even today, says Graff, the Manhattan Project evokes boldness, daring, and the grand dream of bringing an end to World War II in the Pacific. A panoramic narrative of how ordinary people grapple with extraordinary wartime risks and sacrifices, this book traces the breakthroughs and the breakneck pace of atomic development in the years leading up to 1945. Then, the book takes readers inside the B-29 bombers carrying Little Boy and Fat Man, and finally to ground zero at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Book Discussion | Inside the Legacy of NYC's Iconic Music Club


Join award-winning music journalist Billy Altman for a conversation about Positively Fourth and Mercer: The Inside Story of New York's Iconic Music Club, The Bottom Line. Altman will discuss the club's unexpected rise from a quiet industrial pocket of the city to a cultural landmark that shaped New York's musical identity for three decades. Hear how two childhood friends built a venue that became beloved for its intimate setting, artist-centered vision, and unforgettable performances.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Party | Play Bridge in a Stress-Free Environment


The card game of Bridge requires four people to play: two teams of two people. Join the group with your bridge partner, or you will be matched with someone to play as a pair. If you would like to learn how to play bridge, organizers can offer some instruction, and you can observe others.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Conversations around Public Space: Community Resiliance & Architecture


In this lecture and workshop facilitated by Helsinki-based architect and urban designer Arvind Ramachandran, leaders and attendees will share thoughts and experiences about the immense potential public spaces hold not just as places for people to relax and socialize, but also as platforms for building community resilience. The event will begin with a short presentation about the importance of thriving local public spaces. Using examples from his work in Helsinki and his residency in New York, Arvind will highlight key issues affecting how we create and sustain these spaces. The presentation will be followed by an exhibition and collective test of the Field Kit for Public Space Imagination, a tool Arvind hopes will lower barriers for designers of public spaces to engage in conversations with users and local communities. Participation in this event requires no prior familiarity with public space design. Participants are free to join in ways that feel best to them, whether as a listener or as an active participant in the conversation.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free

Workshop | Origami Group Meet-Up


This event is for people to come together and share in the beautiful art of Origami--an ancient art of folding various mediums, most commonly paper. The word comes from the combination of the Japanese verb oru (to fold) and the noun kami (paper). Other materials often folded are fabric, wire mesh, sheet metal, tissue, thin plastic, cardboard, and straws.This group meets to teach each other new models and share paper, books, and tips. This meeting is free and open to all level of folders from beginner to advanced. There will be free paper available to share. You may choose to bring your own paper and books and just show up and fold! If you have models you would like to learn, or teach, let the organizers know, and they will try our best to accommodate.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free

Performance | Comedy, Music & Open Stage Variety Night


Enjoy an evening featuring a rotating lineup of comedians, storytellers, and musicians, followed by an open stage where anyone can perform. The program welcomes a wide range of acts and creative formats.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free

Screening | Jazz Legends on Film: A Rare Archival Showcase


Experience an exceptional mix of rare filmed performances featuring some of the most iconic figures in jazz history. This eclectic program highlights unforgettable moments from artists including John Coltrane, Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, Lennie Tristano, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Abbey Lincoln, Mary Lou Williams, and even John Cage. This screening offers a chance to see jazz greats captured on camera.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Modern & Contemporary Chamber Pieces (In Person AND Online!)


Manhattan School of Music's champer players perform a series of Modern and Contemporary pieces. Program: Anton Webern (1883-1945) Concerto for Nine Instruments, Op. 24 Christian Kriegeskotte Threnody: For Fritz Chamber Concerto for Piano, Percussion, and 13 Instruments Alban Berg (1885-1935) Chamber Concerto for Piano and Violin with 13 Wind Instruments
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free

Classical Music | Percussion Works by J.S. Bach & More (In Person AND Online!)


Percussion Chaerim Park performs a series of pieces by composers from various musical periods. Program: Alejandro Viñao (1951-) Burritt Variations Iannis Xenakis (1922-2001) Rebonds A Philippe Hurel (1955-) Tombeau in Memoriam Gérard Grisey J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Partita for Violin No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1004
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Romantic & Modern French Horn Works (In Person AND Online!)


Colby Kleven, French horn, performs a series of Romantic, Modern, and Contemporary pieces. Program: Paul Dukas (1865-1935) Villanelle Ruth Gipps (1921-1999) (arr. Colby Kleven) Horn Concerto, Op. 58 Colby Kleven Sonata for Horn and Piano Valerie Coleman (1970-) Afro-Cuban Concerto
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
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