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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!
40 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, August 26, 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
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Screening | Most Watched International Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis & Baseball
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 11:00am Tennis- Center Court
11:00am - 1:00pm Tennis- US Open Qualifying Round 2
1:00pm - 7:00pm Baseball Little League World Series
7:00pm - 11:00pm Tennis- US Open Mixed Doubles Semifinals
*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
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
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Learn the Art of Lanyard Weaving
Come learn how to make your own lanyard keychains! The group will be weaving colorful lanyards with either the square/box stitch or cobra stitch! All materials provided. First come, first served.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Stride, Boogie-Woogie, & Swing
Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime, stride, and jazz the Big Apple has to offer. Joel Forrester is a contemporary two-handed piano player, essaying the stride, boogie-woogie, and swing styles. He wrote the theme to NPR's Fresh Air, received the personal encouragement of Thelonious Monk, co-led the legendary Microscopic Septet, and produced music for the early films of Andy Warhol. Joel is currently playing and composing in south-central France; he recently completed his two-thousandth composition.
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...
Performance | Cello Works by J.S. Bach & Britten + Original Dance Work
Camden M. Archambeau, cello, and Joshua Armstrong, dancer. Program: J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major Benjamin Britten (1913-1976) From Cello Suite No. 2, Op. 80
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
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
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
Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
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
Workshop | 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
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
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
City Walk | 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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
Jazz | An Evening of Sonny Rollins Music in the Park
World-class live music as part of New York State's longest-running jazz concert series. This event features jazz saxophonist and the Big Chief of The Congo Square Nation Afro-New Orleans Cultural Group Donald Harrison.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Poetry Reading | Lyric & Narrative Poetry with Emerging Writers (+ Q&A & Signing)
Poets Rayne Alarcio, AJ DiBetta, Leelah Holmes, Colleen Bąk, and spencer jude perez perform in an evening of contemporary poetry exploring identity, memory, family, transformation, and belonging. Through lyric, narrative, and experimental forms, these emerging writers offer work that examines queer and trans experience, personal history, imagination, and the ways we make meaning of ourselves and our communities. The event will feature readings from each poet, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing.
Rayne Alarcio — Starving the Wolf
AJ DiBetta
Leelah Holmes
Colleen Bąk — Pins and Needles: Love Letters to a Dead Magician; Breadcrumbs
spencer jude perez — SUN—MOON—RISING
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
$5, tickets required
$5, tickets required
Classical Music | Works by Piazzolla, Clara Schumann, & More (In Person AND Online!)
Reimagining Classical brings together a lineup of Graduate Center musicians and friends in a program spanning more than two centuries of music. Program: Anton Rubinstein (1829–1894) Piano Sonata No. 3 in F Major, Op. 41 Ellis Ludwig-Leone (1989-) Quiet Hours Ellis Ludwig-Leone (1989-) Trois Allumettes (for M.H.) Michael Stephen Brown (1987-) Twelve Blocks Florence Price (1887-1953) Adoration Paquito D’Rivera (1948-) Bridgetower Reimagined Clara Schumann (1819-1896) Piano Trio in G Minor, Op. 17 Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992) La Muerte del Ángel Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992) Libertango
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Reading | Award-Winning Speaker Narrates Classic NYC Book by E.B. White
A live reading event for a live narration of Here Is New York. The timeless essay will be brought to life by Mark Sanderlin, an Audie Award–winning narrator (think, the Oscars of audiobook narration). Written in 1948, Here Is New York is part essay, part love letter, and part time capsule. White captures the city’s essence with observations that feel just as true today as they did over 75 years ago. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker, a recent transplant, or just endlessly fascinated by this place, this is a chance to experience a classic in the most fitting setting.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Movie in a Park | Hitchcock's North by Northwest (1959) with Cary Grant (in the Garden)
A New York City advertising executive goes on the run after being mistaken for a government agent by a group of foreign spies, and falls for a woman whose loyalties he begins to doubt. Director: Alfred Hitchcock Cast: Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason, Jessie Royce Landis Alfred Hitchcock was an English filmmaker who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of cinema. In a career spanning six decades, he directed over 50 feature films, many of which are still widely watched and studied today. Known as the "Master of Suspense," he became as famous as any of his actors thanks to his many interviews, his cameo roles in most of his films, and his hosting and producing the television anthology Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955-65). His films garnered 46 Academy Award nominations, including six wins, although he never won the award for Best Director despite five nominations. A well-known figure of Classic Hollywood, Cary Grant was nominated twice for the Academy Award, received an Academy Honorary Award, and received the Kennedy Center Honor. In 1999, Grant was named the second greatest male star of the Golden Age of Hollywood by the American Film Institute.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
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Classical Music | "Virtuoso" Pianist Performs Works by Liszt & More
Regular Price: $50CFT Member Price: $0.00
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