free things to do in New York City
Free events for Sunday, 08/23/26
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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 23, 2026?

27 free events take place on Sunday, August 23 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 23 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.
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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!

27 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Sunday, August 23, 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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Tai Chi in the Park

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
10:00 am
Free
Tours, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial

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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Kayaking on the Hudson

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!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Park Walks, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Walk along the East River: Learn about History, Architecture, & Ecology

Dancing | Bollywood and Bhangra Dance Workshop (All Levels Welcome)


Ajna Dance Company leads an energetic dance workshop! Learn easy-to-follow dance moves inspired by vibrant South Asian music and culture. Whether you’re trying Bollywood and Bhangra for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll leave energized, inspired, and ready to hit the dance floor. No dance experience needed!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Dancings, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Bollywood and Bhangra Dance Workshop (All Levels Welcome)

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
Museumss, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities

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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park

Fair | Outdoor Midtown Market


Celebrate community, creativity, and summer at this vibrant street fair! There will be an array of local vendors' booths. Enjoy delicious food and a variety of fun activities.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Fairs, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Outdoor Midtown Market

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
Museumss, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions

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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Play the Creative Word Game Scrabble in the Park

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
Museumss, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Sunday at a Unique Art Museum

Screening | Sun Ra: Do the Impossible (2025) -- Documentary on a Jazz Icon (with Live Music Performance)


Discover the extraordinary life of poet, philosopher, and music visionary Sun Ra. With his ever-evolving collective, the Sun Ra Arkestra, he self-produced more than 200 albums, stretching the boundaries of jazz. Director: Christine Turner Featuring a performance from James Stewart Quartet. Saxophonist James Stewart has worked with the Duke Ellington Orchestra (under the direction of Mercer Ellington), Abdullah Ibrahim, Frank Foster’s Loud Minority big band, the Lionel Hampton big band, Gloria Gaynor, The Dells, The Temptations, and the late great Danny Mixon. He has long been a member of the Sun Ra Arkestra.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Screenings, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Sun Ra: Do the Impossible (2025) -- Documentary on a Jazz Icon (with Live Music Performance)

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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, An Afternoon of Community Rowing&nbsp;in New York Harbor

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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Family Kayaking on the East River

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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12:00 pm
Free
Tours, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century

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
Park Walks, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Women's Walk in the Park

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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove

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
Concerts, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)

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
Concerts, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists

Jazz | Music Festival in the Park: Rhythm-Driven Salsa & Latin Jazz Ensemble


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 the salsa and Latin jazz ensemble the Ray Delgado Project. Led by percussionist Ray Delgado, the group features seven talented musicians on vibraphone, piano, bass, bongos, congas, timbales, and vocals, delivering a rich and authentic Latin sound rooted in New York's musical tradition.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Music Festival in the Park: Rhythm-Driven Salsa & Latin Jazz Ensemble

Classical Music | Music on the Water: Beethoven's Piano Sonatas


Jeffrey Swann, piano. All-Beethoven (1770-1827) Program: Sonata in G major, Op. 31, No. 1 Sonata in D minor, Op. 31 No. 2 (“Tempest”) Sonata in E-flat major, Op. 31 No. 3 Sonata in C major, Op. 53 (“Waldstein”)
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Music on the Water: Beethoven's Piano Sonatas

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
2:45 pm
Free
Partys, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Roller Dance Social In a Park with Live DJ

Workshop | Learn More about African Culinary Traditions


The famed culinary collective traces the odyssey of a beloved food across cultures and geographies: an iconic dish, but also a lens into migration, memory, and shared histories across the whole of the African diaspora. Guests: Niara Sterling and more to be announced. 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
Workshops, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Learn More about African Culinary Traditions

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...
Museumss, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution

Concert | 5X Grammy-WInning Multilingual Fusion Artist in the Park


Beninese singer Angelique Kidjo takes the stage. She is known for her multilingual fusion of Afrobeat, pop, jazz, reggae, and various African traditions and percussive rhythms, which has earned her international acclaim. Over her multi-decade career, she's collaborated with the likes of Philip Glass and the Kronos Quartet to Peter Gabriel, Alicia Keys, Dr. John, and Branford Marsalis. Her latest album, Hope!!, features contributions from Pharrell Williams, Nile Rodgers, Ayra Starr, Quavo, and The Gap Band's Charlie Wilson. DJ Freshy K, a Nigerian Afrobeats specialist based in NYC who has opened for the likes of Jidenna, Flavour, Olamide, Davido, and Wizkid, opens the show with a DJ set.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, 5X Grammy-WInning Multilingual Fusion Artist in the Park

Concert | Live Acoustic Evening


Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Sophia Stewart.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Live Acoustic Evening

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
Plays, August 23, 2026, 08/23/2026, Shakespeare's&nbsp;The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Musical | Hit Show Musical Parody

Regular Price: $58.50
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Performance | Erotic Burlesque Show

Regular Price: $135
CFT Member Price: $0.00