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free things to do in New York City
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!
48 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, August 19, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Editor's Picks
Workshop | Tai Chi (Outdoors)
Improve balance, strength, and focus through gentle exercises. The sights and sounds of the harbor provide a serene background for the ancient flowing postures.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
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
Join the Club!
10:00 am
free, no reservation required
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- Cincinnati Open & Tennis Channel Live
*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
free, no reservation required
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!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Tour | A Walk Through Fashion, History, and Immigration: Garment District
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
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Dancing | Professional Tango Dancers Lead Dance Class (All Levels Welcome)
Led by Karina Romero and Jorge Carmona, this program is an introduction to the basic steps of Argentine Tango. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Tango aficionado, all are welcome to join this program. Requirements to participate:
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear
Please arrive 15 minutes early to the class
You must sign the release form available at the link for every session you plan to attend
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish for New...
pay-what-you-wish for New...
Dance Lesson | Creative Movement Class
Dances for a Variable Population leads creative movement classes for adults of all ages and abilities, with a focus on seniors. 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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Art-Making in the Park: Pastel Puppies
Pick up some tips on how best to shape your dog's features in this workshop. Pastels make for a wonderful medium to depict dogs.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:30 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | French Petanque-Playing in the Park
Members of NYC’s oldest-running Petanque club guide a Petanque-playing session. This French lawn bowling game from the early 20th century is easy to learn, and the boules will be provided. Just bring yourself!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
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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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, registration required...
free, registration required...
Classical Music | An Afternoon of Organ Works by J.S. Bach in a Beautiful Church
Take a momentary respite from a busy day to enjoy a selection of organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach in an intimate venue.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:20 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Anthology Contributors/Editors Discuss Their Craft & Careers
This conversation features Kathy Curto, editor of What Are You Waiting For?: An Anthology, with contributors Terri Linton and Christopher L. Vaughan, as well as anthology editor and author Domenica Ruta. Kathy Curto is the author of Not for Nothing: Glimpses into a Jersey Girlhood. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, on NPR, and in other anthologies. Terri Linton's writing has been published in the anthology We Got This: Solo Mom Stories of Grit, Heart, and Humor; Catapult Magazine; Zibby Mag; Mother Mag; and other online sites. Domenica Ruta is a fiction writer and memoirist whose first novel, Last Day, was named one of the "100 Notable Books of the Year" by The New York Times. Christopher L. Vaughan is a freelance writer who covers disability and parenthood. His work has appeared in The New York Times and USA Today.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Improvised Jazz
Come on down and swing along to the best jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Celia Tewey.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free...
free...
Classical Music | Piano Works by J.S. Bach, Brahms, & More
Adrian King, piano. Program: J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Toccata in G Minor, BWV 915 Johann Brahms (1833-1897) 8 Klavierstucke, Op. 76 Missy Mazzoli (1980-) Piano Etudes, No. 6
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Jazz | Timeless Jazz Standards
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, registration required...
free, registration required...
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:30 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Workshop | Learning to Knit in the Park
This beginner class is taught by Knitty City. Volunteers are available to teach you how to cast, knit, purl, and more! Yarn and needles are provided.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | 80 for Brady (2023): Sports Comedy with Star-Studded Cast
A group of friends made it their life-long mission to go to the Super Bowl and meet NFL superstar Tom Brady. Director: Kyle Marvin Cast: Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, Sally Field, Tom Brady
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Landscape Art Class (Outdoors)
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Relaxing & Educational Fishing on the Hudson (Equipment Provided, All Ages)
At this Hudson River catch-and-release event, make a fish wish--you might just get a bite! Over 200 species of fish are found in the Hudson Rive. Anglers ages 5 and up are invited to participate at this program, with parental supervision required. The organizer team provides all the necessary equipment and an on-site fishing tutorial. Participation is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Beginners and experts alike are encouraged to join for a relaxing and educational experience at the water's edge.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Jazz | NPR-Featured Ragtime & Stride Entertainer in the Park
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Club | Discuss & Analyze the Genre-Bending Novella, Meville: A Novel
The group is reading Jean Giono's 1941 work, Melville: A Novel, translated from the French by Paul Eprile in 2017. About the book: In the fall of 1849, Herman Melville traveled to London to deliver his novel White-Jacket to his publisher. On his return to America, Melville would write Moby-Dick. Melville: A Novel imagines what happened in between: the adventurous writer fleeing London for the country, wrestling with an angel, falling in love with an Irish nationalist, and, finally, meeting the angel’s challenge—to express man’s fate by writing the novel that would become his masterpiece.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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4:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | An Afternoon of Rowing in New York Harbor
At this 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
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | 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. 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
Brooklyn, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Book Discussion | MTV & VH1 TV Personality Shares His New Book, Dispatches From the Kingdom of Outsiders: Writing on Music, Culture and More 1979-2025
Grab your copy and dive into such diverse subjects as 1970s Times Square, the A&R offices of Atlantic Records, Woodstock, Phil Ochs, New Orleans, and the Beatles with author Tim Sommer and Kay Kasparhauser.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Party | Board Games Meet-Up
This event features a variety of board games, including Scrabble, Chess, Boggle, Bananagrams, Scattergories, and more! Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels are welcome. Studies have shown that playing board games can have positive effects on your mental, emotional, and physical health, including: o Improving memory and focus o Enhancing critical thinking skills o Making connections o Reducing stress (and screen time!)
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Cardio & Strength Class for Endurance, Power, & Wellness with Live DJ
This class is a high-energy group workout for a fun, full-body session. Participants will be guided through intervals designed to boost endurance, power, and overall wellness. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels and focus on helping participants move, feel, and perform better. A live DJ will help you warm up before each class begins. Please bring your own yoga mat or blanket. All classes are weather-dependent and are subject to change. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early to secure your spot, as walk-ups may be accommodated if space becomes available.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
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!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Dancing | Salsa Dancing on the Plaza (Lesson + Open Dance Floor)
Teachers with Mi Salsa Dura Baile lead an evening of Latin rhythm and dancing! Each class starts off with a lesson followed by an open dance floor.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Yoga on the Green: Yoga Therapist-Led Class (All Levels Welcome)
An evening workshop led by Dana Slamp. Slamp is a yoga therapist, teacher, and author living in New York City. Her mind/body school, Prema Yoga Institute, was founded in 2012, and has become the premier IAYT-accredited yoga therapy school in New York City. 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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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Book Discussion | The Guardian Contributor Shares His New Book, War Boys: A Father and Son Memoir
Writer Jason Prokowiew in conversation with fellow author Lynne Marie Rosenberg for a discussion of his debut memoir. War Boys is an exploration of a family experiencing intergenerational trauma: an adult son seeking to understand his terrifying and abusive father, interwoven with a biography of his father, who experienced unimaginable horrors as a child during World War II.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Learn the Art of Ballroom Dancing in the Park
Fitness, fun, and fancy footwork! Ballroom Basix provides physical, social, emotional, and multicultural engagement through the etiquette and education of non-competitive Ballroom & Latin partner dancing. This class energizes, entertains, and educates teachers, students, their families, and communities while emphasizing the poise and politeness this program promotes.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Sculpting Workout on the Pier
Led by coaches and trainers from obé Fitness lead a class to deliver a full-body burn with energizing, low-impact toning work. Designed to be accessible and welcoming for all fitness levels.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Sunset Yoga on the Water
End your day with yoga in a beautiful sunset setting, led by Meg SantaMaria of Roadside Yogi. Suitable for all fitness levels. Please wear comfortable and bring your own mat. 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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Award-Winning Filmmaker & Public Speaker Shares Her New Nonfiction Book, What Will They Say?
Denise Soler Cox discusses her new book, What Will They Say?: Confront Cultural Taboos and Discover Your Inner Power, which exposes nine common Latin cultural taboos no one dares discuss and shares her road-tested advice to blast through them and reclaim your power. Through raw personal stories and unflinching honesty, Cox reveals the cultural taboos that have been quietly sabotaging Latina success, drawing from thousands of one-on-one conversations with Latinas after her keynotes who recognize these unspoken patterns but never had language for what was holding them back. Each chapter exposes a taboo through Cox's own vulnerability, creating space for readers to break through their own.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Jazz | Lincoln Center-Featured Musicians Play Snazzy Tunes on the Plaza
World-class live music as part of New York State's longest-running jazz concert series. This event features saxophonist and singer Camille Thurman and Darrell Green Quartet.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Pulitzer Prize Finalist Journalist Shares Insights from His Latest Book, Revenge for the Sixties
A lecture and conversation with Peter S. Canellos, the author of The Great Dissenter: The Story of John Marshall Harlan, America’s Judicial Hero, and the editor of the bestselling Last Lion: The Fall and Rise of Ted Kennedy. He served as executive editor at POLITICO, leading the newsroom during the 2016 presidential campaign, and the editorial page editor of The Boston Globe. He has also been a Pulitzer Prize finalist, a recipient of the American Society of Newspaper Editors award in 2011 for excellence in editorial writing, along with the 2022 George Polk Award, Robin Toner Award, and News Leaders Association Batten Medal for his writing about the Supreme Court. Revenge for the Sixties: Sam Alito and the Triumph of the Conservative Legal Movement is the first-ever biography of Supreme Court Justice Sam Alito, the conservative legal movement that shaped him, and the future of a country reshaped by originalism, by prize-winning journalist Peter Canellos.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Movie in a Park | Beasts of the Southern Wild (2012): Magical Realism Drama (Outdoors)
Hushpuppy, an intrepid six-year-old girl, lives with her father, Wink, in 'the Bathtub', a southern Delta community at the edge of the world. Wink's tough love prepares her for the unraveling of the universe--for a time when he's no longer there to protect her. When Wink contracts a mysterious illness, nature flies out of whack--temperatures rise and the ice caps melt, unleashing an army of prehistoric creatures called aurochs. With the waters rising, the aurochs coming, and Wink's health fading, Hushpuppy goes in search of her lost mother. Director: Benh Zeitlin Cast: Quvenzhane Wallis, Dwight Henry Free refreshments + surprises! Limited seats available - come early and bring a blanket.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:00 pm
free, RSVP recommended
free, RSVP recommended
Play | Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy (Open Caption)
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,
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:00 pm
free, tickets required
free, tickets required
Movie in a Park | Arco (2025): Animated Sci-Fi Fantasy Film in the Park
In 2075, a girl witnesses a mysterious boy in a rainbow suit fall from the sky. He comes from an idyllic far future where time travel is possible. She shelters him and will do whatever it takes to help him return to his time. Director: Ugo Bienvenu Cast: Swann Arlaud, Alma Jodorowsky, Margot Ringard Oldra, Oscar Tresanini, Vincent Macaigne, Louis Garrel Grab a blanket and come enjoy a movie under the stars.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:15 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Movie in a Park | National Treasure (2004): Action-Adventure Heist Film Starring Nicolas Cage on the Pier
Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian, along with computer expert Riley Poole and archivist Abigail Chase, search for a massive lost Freemason treasure, which includes a map hidden on the back of the United States Declaration of Independence. Director: Jon Turteltaub Cast: Nicolas Cage, Harvey Keitel, Jon Voight, Diane Kruger, Sean Bean, Justin Bartha, Christopher Plummer Nicolas Cage is an American actor and film producer. Born into the Coppola family, he is the recipient of various accolades, including an Academy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and a Golden Globe Award. Pack a picnic, bring a friend, and settle in for a night of premier movies on the Pier. Film begins at dusk. Open Captioned.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
8:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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Classical Music | "Virtuoso" Pianist Performs Works by Liszt & More
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