- ABOUT
- CONTACT
- FAQ
- REVIEWS
- GIVE A GIFT OF CFT!
-
Join the Club!
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!
44 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Thursday, August 27, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Editor's Picks
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
Join the Club!
10:00 am
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
Join the Club!
10:00 am
free, registration required...
free, registration required...
Dancing | Dance Movement Workshop: Influential Graham Technique (Beginners Welcome)
Guests are invited to learn Martha Graham's famous technique through the Jerome Robbins Dance Division's audio and moving image collection and the movement styles shown on the screen. Special guest speakers use material from the collection to lead movement workshops highlighting the history of the technique, focusing on the one developed by Martha Graham. Dance Division staff conclude the workshop with instruction on how to use the research catalog and access the materials shown during the workshop. No prior dance experience required.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park
A welcome multi-level yoga class in the park open to everyone. Bring your own mat.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
Birdwatching | Spot Central Park's Late Summer Migrators with an Expert
Enjoy a special spring birding experience, led by expert birder Alan Drogin, and see how many (of over 280 species of birds that have been documented in Central Park) you can spot. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, this program will introduce you to the basics of bird identification, including how to recognize birds by shape, behavior, and sound. Spot some of the spring migrators, such as colorful warblers, orioles, and thrushes, and explore the natural wonders hidden in the heart of the city!
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration 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
Join the Club!
12:00 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
Join the Club!
12:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945): Supernatural Horror-Drama with George Sanders & Angela Lansbury
A vain Victorian man fantastically transfers his mortality onto a painting of himself, which proceeds to age for him, while he remains young and handsome. But as his visage remains beautifully preserved, his heart and soul decay. An adaptation of the Oscar Wilde novel. Director: Albert Lewin Cast: George Sanders, Hurd Hatfield, Donna Reed, Angela Lansbury, Peter Lawford, Lowell Gilmore George Sanders was a British actor and singer whose career spanned over 40 years. His heavy, upper-class English accent and smooth bass voice often led him to be cast as sophisticated but villainous characters. Dame Angela Lansbury was a British-American-Irish actress and singer. In a career spanning 80 years, she played various roles across film, stage, and television. She was best known for her roles as Jessica Fletcher in the long-running whodunit television series Murder, She Wrote, and as the voice of Mrs. Potts in Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Among Lansbury's accolades are six Tony Awards (including a Lifetime Achievement Award), six Golden Globe Awards, two honorary BAFTA Awards, a Laurence Olivier Award, an honorary SAG Award, and the Academy Honorary Award; in addition to nominations for three Academy Awards, eighteen Primetime Emmy Awards, and a Grammy Award. In 2014, she was made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Artmaking on the Plaza with a Professional Artist
Led by a local teaching artist, this drop-in class invites participants to explore creativity through hands-on artmaking. Past mediums have included plein-air drawing, printmaking, cyanotypes, and more. All materials are provided.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Classical Music | Baroque Chamber Works
Rachel Doehring Jackson, soprano, Ian Jones, Baroque violin, Sahana Shravan, Baroque violin, Jessica Slade, Baroque viola, Grace Mockus, Baroque cello and Viola da Gamba, Andrew Bortvin, harpsichord, Alex Vourtsanis, guitar. Program: Anonymous (guitar accompaniment by Paolo Foscarini) Madre, mia non mi far monaca Claudia Rusca (1593-1676) Canzoni francesi, Canzon prima "La Borromea" Canzon seconda Bernardo Storace (fl. 1664) Monica Claudia Sessa (c. 1570 - c. 1617/19) Occhi io vissi Biagio Marini (1594-1663) Trio Sonata sopra "La Monica" Isabella Leonarda (1620-1704) Sonata Prima Philipp Friedrich Boddecker (1607-1683) Sonata Sopra "La Monica" Rosa Giacinta Badalla (c. 1660 - c. 1710) O fronde care
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing (1989): Indie Comedy-Drama
Racial tensions grow in a Brooklyn neighborhood on the hottest day of the summer, while everyone tries to cope with the heat. Director: Spike Lee Cast: Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Richard Edson, Giancarlo Esposito, Spike Lee, Bill Nunn, John Turturro, John Savage Spike Lee is a filmmaker and actor. Cited by various publications as one of the most important filmmakers of the late 20th century, his work explores issues including race relations, issues within the black community, the role of media in contemporary life, urban crime, and poverty. Lee has received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, two Primetime Emmy Awards, and three Peabody Awards, as well as nominations for three Golden Globes and a Grammy Award.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Scream 7 (2026): Slasher Film
When a new Ghostface killer emerges in the town where Sidney Prescott has built a new life, her darkest fears are realized as her daughter becomes the next target. Director: Kevin Williamson Cast: Neve Campbell, Isabel May, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Mason Gooding, Anna Camp, David Arquette, Michelle Randolph
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | The Bad Guys 2 (2025): Animated Crime Comedy with Star-Studded Cast (Family Movie)
The Bad Guys are struggling to find trust and acceptance in their newly minted lives as Good Guys, when they are pulled out of retirement and forced to do "one last job" by an all-female squad of criminals. Everyone, including The Crimson Paw, is being blackmailed by the girls, and their only way out may be an old nemesis. Director: Pierre Perifel Cast: Sam Rockwell, Marc Maron, Awkwafina, Craig Robinson, Anthony Ramos, Zazie Beetz, Danielle Brooks, Natasha Lyonne
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Staged Reading | My Little Afternoon: Concert Reading of a Musical
What happens when a sweet, all American 21 year old decides to viciously and violently change the world that he has inhereted? Please join playwright Peter Filichia, director/producer Eric Krebs and featured actor Sean Hodges to find out.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
3:00 pm
free, reservation required
free, reservation required
City Walk | Photo Walk Exploring Hell's Kitchen
Bring your favorite camera (mobile phone cameras included) and embrace this opportunity to work on your street photography, learn to see the city in a new way, or just brush up on your photo basics. Hell's Kitchen has a long history as a gritty, working-class neighborhood on Manhattan's west side. Even as new buildings continue to fill the skyline, it maintains pockets of its old charm. The group will explore this evolving neighborhood, documenting its changing landscape, and then bring it back to the venue for an open discussion to share photos, answer questions, and engage with others about what you experienced on the walk. Please note: This event will be rain or shine, and photo gear will not be provided
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
3:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Play Mah Jongg on the Plaza
Play Mah Jongg with players of all skill levels! Socials are hosted and organized by Linda Fisher, and players play the National Mah Jongg League style. Participants are welcome to borrow equipment, or bring their own Mah Jongg sets. Mah Jongg lessons are currently unavailable at this time.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
3:00 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
Join the Club!
3:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Desert Hearts (1985): Romantic Drama
While waiting for her divorce papers, a repressed literature professor finds herself unexpectedly attracted by a carefree, spirited young woman named Cay. Director: Donna Deitch Cast: Helen Shaver, Patricia Charbonneau, Audra Lindley, Andra Akers, Gwen Welles, Dean Butler
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
4:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Festival | Neighborhood Summer Celebration (Live Music, Food, Local Businesses, & More)
Enjoy an open-air night market bringing food, music, and community in a historic part of Harlem. Come for dinner, stay for the music, bring friends, or pull up solo. What to expect:
Local food vendors, rotating weekly
Live DJs and performances
Open-air summer night market
Community-first, family-friendly vibe
Easy access via subway and bus
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
4:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Museums | Thursday Evenings at a Living Memorial Museum
Explore a museum dedicated to Holocaust remembrance, Jewish life, and education. View expansive galleries, survivor testimonies, and tens of thousands of artifacts. The museum also offers a theater, a genealogy center, an outdoor memorial, and a cafe.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
4:00 pm
free, reservation required...
free, reservation required...
Book Club | Discuss a Nonfiction Book about the Nature of Consciousness
Discuss A World Appears: A Journey Into Consciousness by Michael Pollan! Book Synopsis: When it comes to the phenomenon that is consciousness, there is one point on which scientists, philosophers, and artists all agree: it feels like something to be us. Yet the fact that we have subjective experience of the world remains one of nature’s greatest mysteries. In A World Appears, Michael Pollan traces the unmapped continent that is consciousness, bringing radically different perspectives—scientific, philosophical, literary, spiritual, and psychedelic—to see what each can teach us about this central fact of life.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
4:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Jazz | Jazz Quintent in the Square, Playing the Music of Charlie Parker & More
Celebrate the music of the musical relationship between Kenny Dorham and Charlie Parker, featuring one of the Jazz at Lincoln Center’s longstanding and heralded orchestra members: Marcus Printup. Marcus and his band will revisit and explore songs recorded by Charlie Parker and Kenny Dorham on the Royal Roost sessions, as well as a few compositions by Kenny Dorham.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
5:00 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
Join the Club!
5:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Museums | Three Floors. Hundreds of Images. One Unforgettable Way to See
This museum is the world's leading institution dedicated to photography and visual culture. It was founded in 1974 to champion "concerned photography"--socially and politically minded images that can educate and change the world. Through its exhibitions, education programs, community outreach, and public programs, the museum offers an open forum for dialogue about the power of the image.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
5:00 pm
$5, tickets required
$5, tickets required
Workshop | Full-Body Fitness Class in the Park (All-Levels Welcome)
An outdoor workout in the park for building strength, balance, and community. This full-body fitness class is designed to energize your week, boost your mood, and build community in the heart of Lower Manhattan. Every movement can be modified, making it perfect for beginners, returning exercisers, and parents looking to reset after school drop-off.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
5:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Jump into Double Dutch with the Pros
Learn the fundamentals of street-style and competitive jump rope with the Double Dutch Aunties.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
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
Join the Club!
5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Footsteps in the Fog (1955): Technicolor Period Crime Thriller
A scullery maid tries to blackmail her master into romancing her when she discovers that he murdered his wife. Director: Arthur Lubin Cast: Stewart Granger, Jean Simmons
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Architect Celebrates His New Book, Shingle Style Houses: The Evolution of an Inventive Architecture (+ Signing)
A conversation with John R. DaSilva to share his new book, a comprehensive survey of historical and modern American shingle-style homes. He will be joined in conversation with Thomas A. Kligerman, followed by a signing.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Movie in a Park | Audience Choice Movie Night on the Waterfront (Outdoors)
Attendees vote for their favorite selection from three options to view this evening! Selections include Challengers (R, 2024, 131 minutes), The Great Gatsby (PG-13, 2013, 143 minutes), and Ocean's Eleven (PG-13, 2001, 116 minutes). Guests are welcome to bring their own food for picnicking and are encouraged to support nearby park concessions and neighborhood restaurants. Popcorn, water, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages (for those 21+) will be available for sale on-site. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or small soft cushions, but reminded that lawn chairs and dogs are not permitted on the lawn, and glass bottles and outside alcohol are never allowed in the park.
Brooklyn, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Party | Drag Trivia & Bingo Night at the Museum
Win prizes and glory at this museum-hosted trivia night. Come test your art history knowledge, and the trivia champions will even get the winning cocktail named after them.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, tickets required,...
free, tickets required,...
Book Discussion | Exploring the New Seafood Anthology, Eating the Whole Fish
Annie Chen and Zoe Lee discuss their new book. About the book: A seafood anthology on coastal culture, ocean health, and whole fish cooking. From BEAM Studio, in collaboration with nonprofit Eating with the Ecosystem, Eating the Whole Fish is a 200-page exploration of sustainable seafood systems through recipes, interviews, photography, essays, and cultural stories.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
City Walk | Indigenous Practices & NYC's Urban Waterways: Learn & Explore
A fire centering Indigenous protocol and knowledge. At this Kinstillatory Fire, Jade Nixon will discuss her research and practices of visiting urban waterways in New York City with Black and Indigenous girls, as well as in her own personal life. She'll share some of the questions she has been grappling with, and then lead attendees on a visit to the East River where they can think more about the questions, together.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Workshop | Muay Thai Lessons: Hands-On Instruction To Improve Your Fitness
This summer, learn the fundamentals of Thai Boxing and kickboxing with Patrick Stout; starting with: stance, footwork, then moving on to offense, defense, and techniques. This is a great opportunity to receive hands-on instruction and hone your craft. Whether you’re looking to learn the fundamentals, improve your fitness, or challenge yourself with something new, the instructors will guide you every step of the way. Expect a dynamic mix of drills, conditioning, and technique. No experience is required.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Opening Reception | Summer Fine Art Group Exhibition
Refreshments and mingling amongst a display of art from talented artists. See the award winners! Soft drinks and platters will be provided for your enjoyment. If desired, the bar will be open for purchase of wine and beer (card only, no cash).
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Talk | FAQ NYC Live: Historian Discuses NYC Riot History
A live podcast recording with Christina Greer, Katie Honan, and Harry Siegel, and special guest Asad Dandia!. This live taping digs into seminal moments in New York City that speak to the past, present, and future of America at 250, along with special guest and Brooklyn Borough Historian Asad Dandia. At this event, FAQ NYC hosts Christina Greer, Katie Honan, and Harry Siegel will talk with Asad about riots and much more.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:30 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Workshop | Cardio & Strength Workout (All Levels Welcome)
Instructor Natalie Hahn leads 45 minutes of bodyweight exercises, combining cardio and strength for a full-body workout. This class is high-energy with programming options for all levels!
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Evening Yoga on the Water: Relax, Stretch, & Reset
Unwind and find your balance along the waterfront with Chelsea Piers Fitness. This class is the perfect place to relax, stretch out and reset. A great fit for any fitness level.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Dancing | Salsa on the the Pier (Beginners Welcome)
World-renowned dancer, instructor, and producer Talía Castro-Pozo and her line-up of friends lead a salsa dance party. Celebrated as “The Woman of Salsa” by Latina Magazine, Talía is trained in everything from Ballroom to Jazz. Whether you’re a novice or advanced dancer, every level is welcome, with beginner Salsa lessons to kick off the night before swinging into an open dance affair. 6:30 PM: Beginner Lessons 7:15 PM: Open Dance
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Staged Reading | My Little Afternoon: Concert Reading of a Musical
What happens when a sweet, all American 21 year old decides to viciously and violently change the world that he has inhereted? Please join playwright Peter Filichia, director/producer Eric Krebs and featured actor Sean Hodges to find out.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
7:00 pm
free, reservation required
free, reservation required
Museums | Thursday Nights at One of NYC's Leading Museum
Contemporary art is a vital social force that advances questioning, learning, and working towards a better society. This weekly program offers an accessible opportunity to explore groundbreaking exhibitions by emerging and established artists from around the globe. Engage with current artistic dialogues and help expand the definition of art.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
7:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Workshop | Sunset Yoga in the Park
Sweet Water Dance & Yoga instructors lead a multi-level sunset yoga practice. Suitable for all fitness levels. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing 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
Join the Club!
7:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Movie in a Park | Movie on the Waterfront (Vote for the Movie You Want To Watch)
Audience choice movie! Voting opens in August. Pack a picnic, bring a friend, and settle in for a night of premier movies in the park. Film begins at dusk. Open Captioned.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Comedy Club | Standup Show
Catch some of the best comedians at this free weekly stand-up show, featuring a lineup of rising stars and seasoned favorites. Past performers include Sheng Wang, Mark Normand, Dan Soder, Annie Lederman, and more.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
free, reservation required...
free, reservation required...
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | "Virtuoso" Pianist Performs Works by Liszt & More
Regular Price: $50CFT Member Price: $0.00
Today's Events
All 1055 Events
Free Events This Week
Free Events This Weekend
Contact FAQ Reviews About Terms of Use Privacy Policy
All events are free unless otherwise stated. All programs subject to change. Please confirm before going.Contact FAQ Reviews About Terms of Use Privacy Policy
© Copyright Club Free Time. All rights reserved.