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

29 free events take place on Wednesday, August 26 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 26 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!

29 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, August 26, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.
        

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 am
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Tai Chi (Outdoors)

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Artist-Led Figure Drawing in the Park

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Park Walks, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Discover the History & Design of One of New York's Most Unique Parks

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!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Museumss, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, New York City: History, Architecture, Social Movements, Cultural Diversity

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish for New...
Museumss, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Celebrate Chinese American Heritage & History

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Dance Lessons, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Creative Movement Class

Museums | Exhibition Tour on Legacy of Innovative Modern Dance Teacher/Choreographer


The history of Martha Graham and her dance company is explored in a guided tour of the exhibition, Martha Graham: The Mother of Psychological Dance. The staff-led tour highlights the legacy of Graham and her dance technique, as well as the company, which is the oldest continuously operating dance company in the United States.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Museumss, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Exhibition Tour on Legacy of Innovative Modern Dance Teacher/Choreographer

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Museumss, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Wednesday at a Unique Art Museum

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!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, French&nbsp;Petanque-Playing in the Park

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Learn to Juggle in the Park

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
Free
Tours, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, New York City Hall Guided Tour

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:20 pm
Free
Concerts, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, An Afternoon of Organ Works by J.S. Bach in a Beautiful Church

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Adult Chorus Session Open to All

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Concerts, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Weekly Outdoor Bagpipe Tribute: Honoring 9/11 Lives and Legacies

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
1:30 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Museumss, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Afternoon in a Magnificent Small Museum

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Learning to Knit in the Park

Concert | Pop-Up Rock & Soul Party in the Park


Guitarist and singer Kyle Lacy and his band perform a mix of soul, blues, gospel and rock 'n' roll
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Pop-Up Rock & Soul Party in the Park

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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5:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, An Afternoon of Community Rowing&nbsp;in New York Harbor

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
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Kayaking on the East River

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Partys, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Play Settlers of Catan: All Levels Welcome

Concert | Cuban Trova Music in the Park


Live jazz by local artists in the neighborhood green space where Charlie Parker lived.  The famed Cuban Trova singer Xiomara Laugart was a founding member of the renowned Latin fusion band Yerba Buena, and played the lead role in the 2007 Off-Broadway musical Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz. In recent years, she has often been accompanied by her son Axel Tosca. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Concerts, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Cuban Trova Music in the Park

Book Discussion | Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author Shares His New Novel, Villa Coco (+ Signing)


A conversation with author Andrew Sean Greer, to celebrate his book, a witty yet insightful meditation on what you give and take and becoming who you've always wanted to be. The conversation will be followed by a signing.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Book Discussions, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author Shares His New Novel, Villa Coco (+ Signing)

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free
Dancings, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Salsa Dancing on the Plaza (Lesson + Open Dance Floor)

City Walk | Stories That Shaped a Storied Manhattan Neighborhood - tour


Walk through a historic stretch of Manhattan that traces the people, places, and stories that helped define the neighborhood's cultural legacy. Led by a longtime local historian, the walk reveals where notable figures lived and worked, sharing little-known anecdotes that illuminate why this area remains such a vital part of the city's history.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free
City Walks, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Stories That Shaped a Storied Manhattan Neighborhood - tour

Workshop | Yoga on the Green: Netflix-Featured Instructor (All Levels Welcome)


An evening yoga class led by Jo Murdock, who is certified in barre, yoga, yoga for athletes, meditation + breathwork, and much more. She has her 500hr RYT certification and has created wellness programs for kids, Yoga Alliance-certified trainings, and lectures. Jo has been featured in a handful of articles that highlight “fitness instructors to follow” and has taught for brands like Nike, Self Magazine, and Netflix.  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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Yoga on the Green: Netflix-Featured Instructor (All Levels Welcome)

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Learn the Art of Ballroom Dancing in the Park

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Sculpting Workout on the Pier

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Sunset Yoga on the Water

Book Discussion | Civil War Historian Shares His New Book, Boss Lincoln: The Partisan Life of Abraham Lincoln


A lecture and conversation with Matthew Pinsker, who serves as Director of the House Divided Project, a popular educational initiative on nineteenth-century US history. He is the author of three books, including most recently, Boss Lincoln: The Partisan Life of Abraham Lincoln, which The Wall Street Journal has labeled a "landmark book" and which New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie has called “extraordinarily relevant to our political moment.” Matt appears regularly on TV channels such as C-SPAN, PBS, and History.  Boss Lincoln: The Partisan Life of Abraham Lincoln offers an eye-opening portrait of Abraham Lincoln behind the scenes. With an array of newly discovered and previously overlooked private documents, Matthew Pinsker helps readers understand the career-long party politician whose brilliant coalition-building during the Civil War set the foundation for emancipation and Union victory. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Book Discussions, August 26, 2026, 08/26/2026, Civil War Historian Shares His New Book,&nbsp;Boss Lincoln: The Partisan Life of Abraham Lincoln
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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