free things to do in New York City
Free events for Thursday, 06/18/26
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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 June 18, 2026?

37 free events take place on Thursday, June 18 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 June 18 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 June . 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!

37 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Thursday, June 18, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.
        

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
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10:00 am
Free
Tours, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, New York City Hall Guided Tour

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, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park

Workshop | Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome


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, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome

Jazz | Piano in the Park: "Smashing" Bebop Musician


Come on down and swing along to the best straight-ahead jazz the Big Apple has to offer. “[Marc] Devine is right in that pocket. Simply just smashing stuff that's a tonic for recidivist ears that want to hear it old school, played perfectly.” - Midwest Jazz Record A swingin’ pianist rooted in the bebop tradition, Marc Devine has become a mainstay of the New York jazz scene, performing regularly with his own bands and as a sideman working with musicians such as Fukushi Tainaka, Hide Tanaka, Bill Crow, Jackie Williams, Jerry Weldon and many others. Devine recently released recordings of his NYC trios, Inspiration, which climbed to number 34 on the JazzWeek radio charts.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Concerts, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Piano in the Park: "Smashing"&nbsp;Bebop Musician

Classical Music | Vocal Chamber Music Inspired by 16th-Century Mexican Musical Collection (In Person AND Online!)


“Nuestra Señora,” performed by Ampersand vocal chamber ensemble, draws inspiration from a 1589 document detailing the contents of the musical collection in the Mexico City Cathedral. The inventory, which was briefly uncovered in the 1940s before being lost & subsequently re-discovered around 2008 by Javier Marín López, gives thrilling insight into 16th-century North American performance practice of polyphonic repertoire.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:15 pm
Free
Concerts, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Vocal Chamber Music&nbsp;Inspired by 16th-Century Mexican Musical Collection (In Person AND Online!)

Film | The Running Man (2025): Sci-Fi Action Film


A man joins a game show in which contestants, allowed to flee anywhere in the world, are pursued by "hunters" hired to kill them. Director: Edgar Wright Cast: Glen Powell, William H. Macy, Lee Pace, Michael Cera, Emilia Jones, Daniel Ezra, Jayme Lawson
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Films, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, The Running Man (2025): Sci-Fi Action Film

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Play Mah Jongg on the Plaza

Film | But I'm a Cheerleader (1999): Satirical Teen Romantic Comedy (Cult Classic)


A naïve teenager is sent to "sexual redirection" school when her straitlaced parents and friends suspect her of being gay. Director: Jamie Babbit Cast: Natasha Lyonne, Clea DuVall, Melanie Lynskey, RuPaul Charles, Eddie Cibrian, Wesley Mann
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Films, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, But I'm a Cheerleader (1999): Satirical Teen Romantic Comedy (Cult Classic)

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Museumss, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Thursday Evenings at a Living Memorial Museum

Dance Performance | Ballet Tribute to Paris Is Burning (+ Live DJ)


The legendary Omari Wiles and his trailblazing company Les Ballet Afrik set their electrifying show, New York Is Burning, for the outdoors. Enjoy a celebration of queerness and resilience, and a tribute to the legendary documentary Paris Is Burning. Rooted in the ballroom tradition, a mini ball will round out the event, accompanied by a live DJ!
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:00 pm
Free
Dance Performances, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Ballet Tribute to Paris Is Burning (+ Live DJ)

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, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Kayaking on the East River

Workshop | Sketching After Hours: Draw Among the Masterpieces


Enjoy the galleries and sketch at your own pace during this in-person program. All art supplies are provided, and attendees can draw independently in select galleries. This after-hours event offers a special chance to connect with the art in a peaceful, reflective environment. Whether you're an experienced artist or trying a pencil for the first time, see the collections in a new light.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Sketching After Hours: Draw Among the Masterpieces

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
$5, tickets required
Museumss, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Three Floors. Hundreds of Images. One Unforgettable Way to See

Workshop | Jump into Double Dutch with the Pros


Learn the fundamentals of street-style and competitive jump rope with the Double Dutch Aunties.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Jump into Double Dutch with the Pros

Poetry Reading | Poetry Open Mic: Share Your Work or Listen to Emerging Writers


Participants can share their original work for up to five minutes. Space is limited to 15 readers; show up on time to get a slot!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Poetry Readings, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Poetry Open Mic: Share Your Work or Listen to Emerging Writers

Workshop | Shuffleboard Lessons: Skill-Building, Strategy, & Friendly Competition


The New York Shuffleboard Association leads a session of shuffleboard lessons. Whether you're brand new to the game or looking to level up your skills, this event is the perfect way to play, learn, and connect with fellow shuffleboard enthusiasts. This session includes: A breakdown of shuffleboard rules and gameplay Coaching on shooting form and strategy Skill-building drills tailored to your level A fun and friendly shootout competition to wrap things up and test your new skills Groups are based on experience, so everyone gets the most out of the session. All equipment is provided, just bring your game face and a love for trying something new!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Shuffleboard Lessons: Skill-Building, Strategy, & Friendly Competition

Workshop | Dance Workout (Outdoors)


Experience a high-energy dance workout that will make you sweat! Whether you are a long-time fitness enthusiast or just starting out, we invite you to join us for a summer of wellness at the park.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Dance Workout (Outdoors)

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Muay Thai Lessons: Hands-On Instruction To Improve Your Fitness

Jazz | NPR-Featured Singer-Songwriter Takes the Stage


Singer-songwriter and producer Rijah fuses the soul of her hometown, Jersey City, with the jazz of Manhattan, sculpting a vivid self-portrait that reflects themes of perseverance, growth, and human nature. She was featured on NPR Top Shelf in 2023 and 2024, recently shared the same stage with Norah Jones and Noah Kahan at the 2024 Soundside Music Festival, and played at the 2025 NAMM Convention, and the 2025 South By Southwest Festival in Texas. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Concerts, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, NPR-Featured Singer-Songwriter Takes the Stage

Book Discussion | Prize-Winning Irish Writer Shares His Latest Novel, Dooneen (+ Signing)


Enjoy a conversation with Keith Ridgway, to celebrate his new novel, Dooneen, a brilliant and inventive story about dreams and love, the political and the personal, and what occurs when one world ends and the next begins. The conversation will be followed by a signing.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Book Discussions, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Prize-Winning Irish Writer Shares His Latest Novel, Dooneen (+ Signing)

Classical Music | Romantic Piano Evening with Lang Lang Music Scholars


Two of amazing young pianists, Harmony Zhu and Sebastian Picht, will be featured in a program of virtuoso piano music celebrating the coming of summer. Enjoy a romantic evening of piano playing at its best.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free
Concerts, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Romantic Piano Evening with Lang Lang Music Scholars

Play | Uncle Vanya Under the Stars: Chekhov's Tragicomedy of Longing and Regret


Be part of the audience for Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya, in Geoffrey Horne's translation, at a free, open-air theatrical production. Marking the company's 10th season, the performance unfolds as a darkly comic exploration of longing, frustration, and unrealized lives, staged in an immersive outdoor setting that emphasizes intimacy, atmosphere, and live presence.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:30 pm
Free
Plays, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Uncle Vanya Under the Stars: Chekhov's Tragicomedy of Longing and Regret

Festival | Black American Dance Celebration for Juneteenth


The Ladies of Hip Hop Dance Collaborative & Friends lead an evening celebrating the legacy and evolution of Black American dance. From the Lindy Hop, jazz and tap, to Hip-Hop, House and beyond, this evening traces the thread connecting these movement traditions across generations to honor the innovation, resistance and cultural brilliance of Black American dance. On June 19, 1865, enslaved Black Americans in Texas were emancipated and given their freedom--now celebrated as Juneteenth. This meaningful occasion honors the bravery and determination of Black Americans, reminding us of their remarkable journey and allows us to reflect on this important moment, including the history of slavery and the ongoing fight for equality.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:30 pm
Free
Festivals, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Black American Dance Celebration for Juneteenth

Play | Chekhov's Uncle Vanya: Realist Family Drama in the Park


Life for Vanya, his mother, and Sonya, his niece, is disrupted when Sonya’s father, Professor Serebryakov, and his beautiful young wife, Yelena, return to the estate. Deep feelings and passions begin to surface, which only become more intense with the arrival of the handsome Dr. Astrov. Written by Anton Chekhov. Directed by Joseph Hamel. Cushions will be provided to sit on the stairs of the monument. There is very limited room if you bring your own chair. Please arrive no later than 6:20pm. There will be no late seating.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Plays, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Chekhov's Uncle Vanya: Realist Family Drama in the Park

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Evening Yoga on the Water: Relax, Stretch, & Reset

Dancing | Learn To Salsa with Vibrant Afro-Latin Music


Dance with Puerto Rico's La Tribu de Abrante, ambassadors of contemporary Afro-Latin music. Puerto Rico's La Tribu de Abrante blends sounds from across the diaspora into a powerful and stylistically distinctive live experience. This 12-piece orchestra fuses traditional bomba y plena with salsa, Latin jazz, funk, reggaeton, and pop for an energetic, dance-ready performance. Prior to the show, audiences can warm up with a DJ set and an all-levels dance lesson before joining La Tribu de Abrante for a vibrant night of sounds from Puerto Rico. The dance floor opens with DJ set at 6:30 pm Dance lesson at 7:00 pm Live music at 7:30 pm There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon for all.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:30 pm
Free
Dancings, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Learn To Salsa with Vibrant Afro-Latin Music

Book Club | Luddite Book Club: The Machine Stops


This offline book club is a space for in-person conversation about the role technology plays in the world, where the group will be discussing The Machine Stops by E.M. Forster. Synopsis: First published in 1909, this dystopian sci-fi novella imagines a world where humans live underground and are dependent on an oppressive and omnipresent Machine for survival. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Book Clubs, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Luddite Book Club:&nbsp;The Machine Stops

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Workshops, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Sunset Yoga in the Park

Author Reading | Book Launch: Sisters of a Halved Heart by Nayantara Roy 


Prize-winning author Nayantara Roy shares her new novel, Sisters of a Halved Heart, in conversation with author and podcaster Dani Shapiro. The electric story of two sisters and an unthinkable betrayal.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Author Readings, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Book Launch: Sisters of a Halved Heart by&nbsp;Nayantara Roy&nbsp;

Concert | Pride Picnic: Singer Songwriter and Funk Liberation


A Pride celebration featuring singer-songwriter Joan As Police Woman and the genre-blending ensemble Britton & The Sting. The evening brings together soulful songwriting and high-energy funk in a program centered on identity, community, and creative expression. Joan As Police Woman, the project of Joan Wasser, is known for her distinctive sound and wide-ranging collaborations across rock, jazz, and experimental music. Britton & The Sting deliver an electrifying performance rooted in funk, activism, and collective joy, blending music and performance into an immersive, communal experience.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Concerts, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Pride Picnic: Singer Songwriter and Funk Liberation

Play | Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Live in the Park


The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, directed by Stephen Burdman, is presented outdoors in a free, open-air production. The play examines the fragile balance between loyalty and ambition as a group of senators conspires to prevent a feared tyranny, only to unleash unrest and instability. As alliances fracture and public tensions rise, Shakespeare's exploration of power, persuasion, and responsibility unfolds with striking contemporary relevance. Note: The audience moves and follows the actors 5-6 times during the performance.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Plays, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Live in the Park

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Museumss, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Thursday Nights at One of NYC's Leading Museum

Dance Performance | Movement as an Evolving Language within Black Culture


Witness a New York premiere by Brooklyn-born, Basel-based choreographer Jeremy Nedd. The work serves as a study on transformation and communal joy, reclaiming the viral Milly Rock dance move as an evolving language within Black culture. Five performers—including Jeremy Nedd, Brandy Butler, Zen Jefferson, Nasheeka Nedsreal, and Jeremy Guyton—search for the hidden poetry and virtuosic freedom found in social and viral dance moves.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
pay-what-you-wish, tickets required
Dance Performances, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Movement as an Evolving Language within Black Culture

Concert | Polish-American Music Festival: SUTARI Avant-Folk Trio


This concert is part of Poland's leading jazz and improvised music festival, Jazztopad! This performance features the musician trio SUTARI, which shares the strength of female voices intertwining in a unique harmony. Their sound is a fusion of trance-like, polyphonic compositions blending polish traditional music with contemporary sensitivity revolving around themes of nature, freedom and sisterhood. Sutari is one of Poland's leading export bands. There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:30 pm
Free
Concerts, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Polish-American Music Festival: SUTARI Avant-Folk Trio

Movie in a Park | Harriet (2019): Biographical Film about Harriet Tubman with Star-Studded Cast (under the Nightsky)


Grab a blanket and come enjoy a movie in a neighborhood park! Synopsis: The incredible true story of one of America's greatest heroes, Harriet Tubman. From her escape from slavery to the dangerous missions she led, setting free hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad. Director: Kasi Lemmons Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Leslie Odom Jr., Joe Alwyn, Janelle Monae Movie begins at dusk. Glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. In the event of heavy rain or extreme weather, the screening may be canceled.
   New York City, NY; NYC
8:00 pm
Free
Movie in a Parks, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Harriet (2019): Biographical Film about Harriet Tubman with Star-Studded Cast (under the Nightsky)

Play | Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet: Broadway & Film Actors in a Timeless Tale of Starcrossed Lovers (Open Caption)


Never was there a story of more woe, or more romance, than the Bard’s timeless tale of two young lovers from warring families. As the Montagues and Capulets are torn apart by ideology and simmering violence spills into the streets of the border town of Verona, Romeo and Juliet dare to defy a world determined to keep them apart. In this bold new staging, the play unfolds in English, but Romeo and Juliet speak to one another in Spanish, a language reserved only for their shared world. Don’t miss this thrilling new production, essential viewing for lovers of Shakespeare, theater, and the enduring power of love itself. Written by William Shakespeare Directed by Saheem Ali Cast: Ra'Mya Latiah Aikens, Sergio Mauritz Ang (TV: Crutch, Law & Order: SVU), Daniel Bravo Hernández (Broadway: Romeo + Juliet), Reece dos Santos, Caleb Joshua Eberhardt (Broadway: An Enemy of the People, Choir Boy), Glenn Fleshler (Broadway: Good Night, and Good Luck, Death of a Salesman, Arcadia, Guys and Dolls, Spring Awakening; Film: Joker, A Most Violent Year; TV: Billions, Barry, True Detective, Boardwalk Empire), Francis Jue (Tony, Outer Critics Circle, Lucille Lortel, and Obie Awards for Yellow Face)
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Plays, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet: Broadway & Film Actors in a Timeless Tale of Starcrossed Lovers (Open Caption)

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Comedy Clubs, June 18, 2026, 06/18/2026, Standup Show
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Performance | "Epic" True Story with Broadway Actor

Regular Price: $69
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Classical Music | A Choral Journey of Light and Hope at a Landmark Venue

Regular Price: $65
CFT Member Price: $0.00