free things to do in New York City
Free events for Tuesday, 08/04/26
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City!  Read More
34 free events take place on Tuesday, August 4 in New York City.
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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!

34 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Tuesday, August 4, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum
free events nyc Make New Friends Playing Board Games Outdoors
free events nyc Kayaking on the Hudson
free events nyc Walk along the East River: Learn about History, Architecture, & Ecology
free events nyc Music in the Bandshell: Baroque Chamber Works by J.S. Bach & More
free events nyc Legally Blonde (2001): Comedy Film with Reese Witherspoon (on the Waterfront)
free events nyc Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy
More Editor's Picks for 08/04/26
        

Workshop | Learn & Practice the Chinese Martial Art of Tai Chi in the Park


Practice this traditional system of health and self-defense, derived from the philosphy of Taoism. Tai Chi was designed to develop the optimum degree of harmony between body and mind, as well as between the individual and the natural order of the universe. Classes are led by teachers and students who train nearby at CK Chu Tai Chi under the direction of Master Hyland Harris. Classes are rain or shine. All levels are welcome, and no equipment is necessary.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 am
free, no reservation required

Workshop | Dance Workout on the Plaza


Lively movement and emotional catharsis combine for an exhilarating dance practice led by Viva Soudan. No experience necessary!
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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9:30 am
free, no reservation required

Screening | Most Watched International Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis


Today's Schedule: 10:00am - 5:00pm Tennis- National Bank Open *Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required

Workshop | Yoga in the Park: Vinyasa Soul Flow (All Levels Welcome)


A morning yoga class led by Lizzie Falkner, who aims to move in her body as a messenger of strength, grace & balance. For the last 12 years, Lizzie has taught in NYC and leads retreats all over the world. Her classes are filled with good beats and an energized, open-level vinyasa flow. There is a dash of mantras, mudras, meditation, and YOU! Just breathe and let your soul flow. 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.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, registration required

Park Walk | Guided Walk on the History & Architecture of the Brooklyn Bridge


Participants gather to learn the fascinating story of the Roebling family and the engineering behind the Brooklyn Bridge, ending with a guided walk to the first tower of the bridge. You're encouraged to immerse yourself in the history of the bridge that transformed the New York landscape forever.
   Brooklyn, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, registration required

Workshop | Zumba Workout for All


Enthusiastic instruction and easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography working on balance, coordination, and range of motion.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, no reservation required

Workshop | Art-Making in the Park: Portrait-Drawing


In this workshop, students will gain a better understanding of face proportion, head structure, and the construction of each facial feature. They will learn how to utilize this knowledge to construct an accurate drawing. Students will also learn about the application of different lighting, angle, and perspective. This is open to students of all ages and levels.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:30 am
free, registration required

Jazz | Live Jazz on the Plaza


An open-air concert transformingthe neighborhood into a spontaneous listening room with Peter Bernstein Quartet.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Jazz | Piano in the Park: Musician Who's Collaborated with Donna Summer & More


Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime, stride, and jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Dan Manjovi. “…wonderful songs, wonderful sound, and a voice that is so rich, expressive, and powerful.” - David Kenney, WBAI Radio (Pacifica) Dan Manjovi is an award-winning vocalist, pianist, actor, writer, and teacher. His original music and arrangements have been featured in film, stage, and television, and sung by legends such as Donna Summer and Michael Feinstein. His song, "Somethin’s Comin’ My Way" was featured in the Academy Award-winning film Precious. Manjovi is a regular presence in New York’s top music venues, such as The Bitter End, The Carlyle Room, Feinstein’s/54 Below, and the Laurie Beechman Theatre.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:30 pm
free, no reservation required

Film | White Fang (1991): Northern Period Adventure Drama with Ethan Hawke


Jack London's classic adventure story is about the friendship developed between a Yukon gold hunter and the mixed dog-wolf he rescues from the hands of a man who mistreats him. Director: Randal Kleiser Cast: Klaus Maria Brandauer, Ethan Hawke, Seymour Cassel, James Remar, Susan Hogan Ethan Hawke is an American actor, author, and film director. He made his film debut in Explorers (1985), before making a breakthrough performance in Dead Poets Society (1989). Hawke received two nominations for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Training Day (2001) and Boyhood (2014) and two for Best Adapted Screenplay for co-writing Before Sunset (2004) and Before Midnight (2013).
   Manhattan, New York, NY
1:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Workshop | Art-Making in the Park: Figure Drawing


Learn how to use the 8-head proportion guideline to determine the model's actual proportion and identify unique features. You'll also learn how to create a stick figure using skeletal structure, add muscles and thickness to the skeleton using simple geometric shapes, and finally, add shading to give it three-dimensional volume. This workshop is open to students of all ages and levels!
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:30 pm
free, registration required

Festival | Community Building Fair: BBQ & Fun


This event is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships to help make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. It seeks to strengthen the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement, fostering a true sense of community. Enjoy barbeque and bounce houses, face painting, food, and fun. Meet leaders and personnel from your local precinct and interact with neighbors, community members, and local businesses with the common goal of partnership and safety.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Museums | Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum


Explore the premier collections of modern and contemporary art in one of the world's most iconic architectural landmarks. Tickets for Pay-What-You-Wish hours are available online only and released at 10 am the morning of the event.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
4:00 pm
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...

Festival | Community Building Fair: BBQ & Fun


This event is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships to help make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. It seeks to strengthen the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement, fostering a true sense of community. Enjoy barbeque and bounce houses, face painting, food, and fun. Meet leaders and personnel from your local precinct and interact with neighbors, community members, and local businesses with the common goal of partnership and safety.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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4:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Film | The Savages (2007): Black Comedy Drama with Laura Linney & Philip Seymour Hoffman


A sister and brother deal with familial responsibilities as the health of their absentee father fails. Director: Tamara Jenkins Cast: Laura Linney, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Philip Bosco Laura Linney is an actress and director. She is the recipient of several awards, including four Primetime Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Screen Actors Guild Award, in addition to nominations for three Academy Awards, five Tony Awards, and a BAFTA. Philip Seymour Hoffman was an American actor. He was known for his distinctive supporting character roles and his memorable leading roles in many films and theatrical productions from the early 1990s until his death in 2014. He was voted the greatest actor of the 21st century in a 2024 ranking by The Independent.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Festival | Community Building Fair: BBQ & Fun


This event is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships to help make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. It seeks to strengthen the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement, fostering a true sense of community. Enjoy barbeque and bounce houses, face painting, food, and fun. Meet leaders and personnel from your local precinct and interact with neighbors, community members, and local businesses with the common goal of partnership and safety.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Party | Community Night Out on the Pier


Officers and representatives with parks enforcement will be on hand with free games, face painting, and giveaways for all ages. This event is part of an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Party | Make New Friends Playing Board Games Outdoors


Organizers bring a wider selection of board games to the Games Cart at this event, with games like Ticket to Ride, Carcassonne, Catan, King of Tokyo and more. Not sure what to play? The Games Hosts can help you find the perfect game and match up players!
   Manhattan, New York, NY
5:00 pm
free, no reservation required

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.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required

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.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
5:30 pm
free, no reservation required

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.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required

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.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, registration required

Poetry Reading | Award-WInning Poets Share Their Work in the Park


Award-winning poetry by established and emerging poets. David Groff is the author of Live in Suspense. His previous book, Clay, chosen for the Louise Bogan Award. His first collection, Theory of Devolution, was selected by Mark Doty for the National Poetry Series. Kazim Ali's most recent book is Sukun: New and Selected Poems, which Publisher’s Weekly called, “dazzling.” Martha Rhodes is the author of 5 poetry collections, most recently The Thin Wall. Richard Smith’s first book, Not a Soul but Us, won the 2021 May Sarton New Hampshire Poetry Prize. His second book, Beyond Where Words Can Go, has just been published.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Park Walk | Discover the History & Design of One of New York's Most Unique Parks


Hear the story behind New York City's park in the sky: an insider's perspective on the park's history, design, and landscape. Note: Spots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required

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.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required

Workshop | HIIT Workout on the Pier


NYC’s best trainers bring the energy with a HIIT workout that builds endurance and leaves you feeling energized. Please note that participants should bring their own water bottle to class.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, registration required

Workshop | Mat Pilates for Movement and Flexibility (Outdoors)


A strengthening and lengthening exercise that focuses on conditioning your core muscles while also training your arms and legs. This class incorporates key Pilates principles such as postural alignment, breathing, strength, controlled movement and flexibility. This class is perfect for all levels. Bring your own mat.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free...

Park Walk | Walk along the East River: Learn about History, Architecture, & Ecology


Experienced park docents lead a walking tour to explore the history of the Brooklyn waterfront, the area's sustainable design and ecology, and how the park came to life!
   Brooklyn, New York, NY
6:30 pm
free, registration required

Book Discussion | Book Release Discussion for Shakespeare's Margaret: The Dramatic Life of a Warrior Queen 


A conversation with Charles O’Malley and Scott W. Stern to celebrate the recent release of Shakespeare's Margaret: The Dramatic Life of a Warrior Queen.  About the book: Shakespeare's most powerful female character, her historical inspiration, and her reinventions in performance through the centuries. She is more violent than Lady Macbeth, more complex than Ophelia, more strategic than King Lear’s daughters. She is the only Shakespearean character, male or female, whose entire life—from youth to old age—appears on stage. She is a wealth of insight into Shakespeare’s understanding of, and influence on, ideas of gender and sexuality, and she speaks by far the most lines of any of his female characters. She has allowed the likes of Peggy Ashcroft, Helen Mirren, and Sophie Okonedo full range for their stunning talents. Yet today, most audiences have still never heard of Margaret of Anjou.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, RSVP required

Reading | Storytelling Party & Open Mic


No Name Comedy/Variety Show producer Eric Vetter brings New York’s best established and emerging authors and storytellers to this bookstore for this storytelling party. This event is curated and co-hosted by author/storyteller Michele Carlo, the author of FISH OUT OF AGUA: My life on neither side of the (subway) tracks.   The show will also include a “Magic Hat Open-Mic” where audience members can sign up for a chance at four minutes of stage time to share their own stories.
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, donations welcome,...

Classical Music | Music in the Bandshell: Baroque Chamber Works by J.S. Bach & More


Nosky's Baroque Band. Program: Giuseppe Torelli (1658-1709), Trumpet Concerto in D, Roger 188 Arcangelo Corelli (1653-1713), Concerto Grosso, Op 6 Number 10 Giuseppe Torelli (1658-1709), Violin Concerto in e minor, Op 8 No. 9 Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767), Burlesque de Quixotte Suite, TWV 55:G10 Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750), Violin Concerto, BWV 1052r Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767), Concerto for trumpet & strings, TWV 53:D5
   Manhattan, New York, NY
7:30 pm
free, no reservation required

Film | Legally Blonde (2001): Comedy Film with Reese Witherspoon (on the Waterfront)


The film follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who attempts to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner Huntington III by getting a Juris Doctor degree at Harvard Law School, and in the process, overcomes stereotypes against blondes and triumphs as a successful lawyer. Director: Robert Luketic Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson, Selma Blair, Matthew Davis, Victor Garber, Jennifer Coolidge Bring your own blankets and chairs to lay out on the turf. Space is limited, so arrive early to secure your spot
   Manhattan, New York, NY
8:00 pm
free, RSVP recommended

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, Raul Esparza, Isabela Ferrer, Katie Griffith, Alex Hernandez,
   Manhattan, New York, NY
8:00 pm
free, tickets required

Workshop | Stargazing in the Park


Immerse yourself in the wonders of the night sky. The friendly team from the Amateur Astronomers Association will be there with high-powered telescopes, ready to reveal the secrets of the cosmos. From sunset to 30 minutes before park closure. 
   Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:00 pm
free, no reservation required
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Classical Music | "Virtuoso" Pianist Performs Works by Liszt & More

Regular Price: $50
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Performance | Erotic Burlesque Show

Regular Price: $135
CFT Member Price: $0.00