free things to do in New York City
Free events for Saturday, 03/21/26
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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 March 21, 2026?

51 free events take place on Saturday, March 21 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 March 21 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 March . 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!

51 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Saturday, March 21, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Jewish History: Centuries of Art
free events nyc Explore Collection Which Features Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, and More
free events nyc Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
free events nyc The Devil Is a Woman (1935): Old Hollywood Romantic Drama with Marlene Dietrich
free events nyc Thought-Provoking Evening of Spoken Word, Poetry, & New Works by Emerging Writers
More Editor's Picks for 03/21/26
        

Workshop | Central Park Running Session (All Levels Welcome)


If you prefer not to run alone or are looking to improve your running performance, you can run with a club! Open to runners of all levels. Weekly changed routes through the park. Coaches, training, running company and inspiration!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 am
Free
Workshops, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Central Park Running&nbsp;Session (All Levels Welcome)

Park Walk | Spanish-English Bilingual Park Exploration


Latino Outdoors and BPCA naturalists lead this Spanish-English exploration of the park. Celebrate longer days and warm sunshine as we search for signs of spring in the city. Nos vemos afuera!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Park Walks, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Spanish-English Bilingual Park Exploration

Workshop | Spring Revival: Volunteer Community Garden Cutback


Volunteer with a horticulture crew to clear last season’s debris, tidy beds, and prep the gardens for new growth. No experience needed, just bring weather‑ready clothing. Tools and guidance are provided, and you’ll connect with fellow New Yorkers while helping the park bloom for spring.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Workshops, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Spring Revival: Volunteer Community Garden Cutback

Workshop | Cultivating Creative Roots: Financial Guidance for Artists


These artist-focused workshops offer practical tools for managing banking, cash flow, credit, and debt. Afterwards, participants receive hands-on assistance with tax forms, budgets, loan applications, and other financial documents. Open to the entire artist community; bring your papers and leave with a better understanding of your finances.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Workshops, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Cultivating Creative Roots: Financial Guidance for Artists

Museums | Jewish History: Centuries of Art


As one of the largest collections of art in Jewish culture globally, the venue features an extensive array of historical Jewish artifacts as well as modern and contemporary art.
   New York City, NY; NYC
11:00 am
Free
Museumss, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Jewish History: Centuries of Art

Talk | Maple Harvest: Native Food & Spring Traditions


Celebrate the arrival of spring and nature's gift of sweetness. This time of year, Native peoples of the Northeast harvest maple sap and make maple syrup and other sweet treats. Learn about this Native food and the ingenious process that Native people developed and have shared with the world. Visitors of all ages are welcome.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Talks, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Maple Harvest: Native Food & Spring Traditions

Workshop | Origami Meet-Up


This event is for people to come together and share in the beautiful art of Origami--an ancient art of folding various mediums, most commonly paper. The word comes from the combination of the Japanese verb oru (to fold) and the noun kami (paper). Other materials often folded are fabric, wire mesh, sheet metal, tissue, thin plastic, cardboard, and straws.This group meets to teach each other new models and share paper, books, and tips. This meeting iopen to all level of folders from beginner to advanced. There will be free paper available to share. You may choose to bring your own paper and books and just show up and fold! If you have models you would like to learn, or teach, let the organizers know, and they will try our best to accommodate.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Workshops, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Origami Meet-Up

Gallery Talk | Indigenous Stories Reflected in Glass Works


Experience the luminous dialogue between tradition and contemporary expression in Native Visions Reimagined in Glass. Artists employ glass as a medium to weave Indigenous narratives, designs, and current social themes into radiant works that shimmer with cultural resonance. Hear from artists using glass to express Indigenous stories, designs, and contemporary issues.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Gallery Talks, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Indigenous Stories Reflected in Glass Works

Workshop | Learn Chess Skills (All Ages)


Make your move at this chess event featuring strategy, fun, and friendly competition for players of all ages and skill levels. Explore the game through a chess skills workshop. Grab a friend or co-worker and play the game on our giant indoor chess board underneath the palm trees. Whether you’re making your first move or mastering your endgame, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Workshops, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Learn Chess Skills (All Ages)

Master Class | Explore the Ins & Outs of Great Piano Performance


Master class with Brazilian pianist and advocate for Latin-American piano music, Alessandra Feris.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:15 pm
Free
Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Explore the Ins & Outs of Great Piano Performance

Film | Ready or Not (2019): Horror-Comedy Film


Grace couldn't be happier after she marries the man of her dreams at his family's luxurious estate. There's just one catch -- she must now hide from midnight until dawn while her new in-laws hunt her down with guns, crossbows and other weapons. As Grace desperately tries to survive the night, she soon finds a way to turn the tables on her not-so-lovable relatives. Directors: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett Cast: Samara Weaving, Adam Brody, Mark O'Brien, Elyse Levesque
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Free
Films, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Ready or Not (2019): Horror-Comedy Film
1:30 pm
Regular: $20
Member: $0
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Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Comedy: Job Interview From Hell

Film | Anchorman (2004): Satirical Comedy Film with Star-Studded Cast


A self-absorbed TV newsman in 1970s San Diego learns that the station is teaming him with - gasp! - a woman. A personal battle of the sexes ensues as the male news team attempts to derail the ambitious newcomer's career. Director: Adam McKay Cast: Will Ferrell, Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner, Fred Willard
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Films, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Anchorman (2004): Satirical Comedy Film with Star-Studded Cast

Film | The Devil Is a Woman (1935): Old Hollywood Romantic Drama with Marlene Dietrich


A young man is warned by a captain about a temptress, nonetheless, he finds himself falling in love with her. Director: Josef von Sternberg Cast: Marlene Dietrich, Lionel Atwill, Cesar Romero Marlene Dietrich was a German-American actress and singer whose career spanned nearly seven decades. In 1920s Berlin, she performed on the stage and in silent films. Her performance as Lola Lola in Josef von Sternberg's The Blue Angel (1930) brought her international acclaim and a contract with Paramount Pictures. Dietrich starred in many Hollywood films. Throughout World War II, she was a high-profile entertainer in the United States. Although she delivered notable performances in several post-war films, she spent most of the 1950s to the 1970s touring the world as a marquee live-show performer.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free
Films, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, The Devil Is a Woman (1935): Old Hollywood Romantic Drama with Marlene Dietrich
2:00 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
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Musicals, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, A Musical for the Whole Family!

Author Reading | Ada Calhoun Shares Her New, Time-Featured Novel, Crush (+ Discussion + Q&A)


Author Ada Calhoun discusses her new novel and forey into fiction, Crush, which was highlighted by Time in their 100 Must-Read Books of 2025. Ada Calhoun’s debut novel mines the literary canon and the heart of middle age and turns up fresh wisdom about the danger and liberation of chasing desire, illuminating new ways to embrace freedom, ambition, and partnership. Ada will give a short reading from the book, discuss it and her other works, and answer some questions.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Author Readings, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Ada Calhoun Shares Her New, Time-Featured Novel,&nbsp;Crush (+ Discussion + Q&A)

Jazz | Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)


This jam session is open to all musicians. Come and play or just listen to some jazzy tunes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free
Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
2:00 pm
Regular: $55
Member: $0
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Musicals, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Dramatic Musical Exploring the Seductive World of Celebrity Media

Tour | Explore Collection Which Features Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, and More


Join these guided tours every Friday and Saturday at 2 PM to explore a museum's history, special collections, and landmarked spaces. Led by educators, the tours last 45-60 minutes and provide an engaging introduction to the artworks and archives on view.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free
Tours, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Explore Collection Which Features Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, and More
2:00 pm
Regular: $20
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Modern Adaptation of a World Classic

Performance | Original 10-Minute Plays


The Hudson Classical Theater Company hosts an afternoon of original ten-minute plays! Writers-A-Go-Go highlights the work of local contemporary playwrights, directed and performed by Hudson Classical company members. Stay after the show for light refreshments and conversation with the playwrights.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Original 10-Minute Plays
3:00 pm
Regular: $69
Member: $0
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Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, 5-Star, One-of-a-Kind High-Energy Show!
3:00 pm
Regular: $33.85
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Drama Based on Historical Events
3:30 pm
Regular: $By invitation only.
Member: $0
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Staged Readings, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, A Play about the Making of a Classic Film

Classical Music | Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue (In Person AND Online!)


Enjoy a program of hymns, anthems, and voluntaries for the organ.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue (In Person AND Online!)
4:30 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
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Musicals, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, A Musical for the Whole Family!
5:00 pm
Regular: $20
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Get Lost in a Maze of Love

Opening Reception | Skin, Wrapping, and the Visible vs. Hidden


An exhibition exploring themes of skin, encasement, and wrapping, examining the tension between what is shown and what is hidden. Curated by artists, the show features wrapped, veiled, and bound elements that give form to the duality of above and below. The exhibition was built as a visual journey driven by the tactile and visceral nature of the pieces, with works that complement or contrast to build tension and continuity. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Opening Receptions, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Skin, Wrapping, and the Visible vs. Hidden
7:00 pm
Regular: $69
Member: $0
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Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, 5-Star, One-of-a-Kind High-Energy Show!

Dance Performance | Ballet Gala


   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Regular: $40
Member: $0
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Dance Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Ballet Gala
7:00 pm
Regular: $33.85
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Drama Based on Historical Events
7:00 pm
Regular: $55
Member: $0
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Musicals, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Dramatic Musical Exploring the Seductive World of Celebrity Media
7:00 pm
Regular: $25
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Greek Tragedy
7:00 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
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Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Musical Comedy!
7:00 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Powerful Drama by Acclaimed Playwright
7:00 pm
Regular: $20
Member: $0
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Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Songs by Ginastera and More
7:00 pm
Regular: $15
Member: $0
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Comedy Clubs, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Stand Up Comedy

Author Reading | Thought-Provoking Evening of Spoken Word, Poetry, & New Works by Emerging Writers


Since 2022, Brooklyn's own Mahogany L. Browne--a prolific writer and avid advocate for public art who has held the role of Lincoln Center's inaugural Poet-in-Residence--hosts a thought-provoking evening of spoken word, spirited conversation, poetry, and presentations of new work, presenting major poets and emerging voices on the New York literary scene. Featured artists to be announced soon!. Browne has written works of fiction, stage plays, and critical essays, edited six anthologies, and authored another half-dozen poetry collections. 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
Author Readings, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Thought-Provoking Evening of Spoken Word, Poetry, & New Works by Emerging Writers
8:00 pm
Regular: $20
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Drama - Love and Betrayal
8:00 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Dramedy Exploring Love, Faith and More
8:00 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
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Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Inventive Reimagining of a Greek Classic
8:00 pm
Regular: $20
Member: $0
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Plays, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Modern Adaptation of a World Classic
8:00 pm
Regular: $67
Member: $0
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Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Multi-Grammy Nominee and The Great American Songbook
8:00 pm
Regular: $22
Member: $0
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Performances, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, NYC Story from The 1970s Era
8:30 pm
Regular: $50
Member: $0
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Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Choral Works by Vaughan Williams and More at a Landmark Venue

Classical Music | Piano Works by Janacek, Scriabin, Brahms, & More (In Person AND Online!)


Fangzhou Ye, piano. Program: Leos Janacek (1854-1928) 1. X. 1905 Leos Janacek (1854-1928) On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17, Book 1: IX In Tears Nikolai Medtner (1880-1951) Forgotten Melodies II, Op. 39: No. 5, Sonata tragica Leos Janacek (1854-1928) On an Overgrown Path, JW VIII/17, Book 1: VII. Good Night Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) Piano Sonata No. 5, Op. 53 Johann Brahms (1833-1897) 7 Fantasien, Op.116
   New York City, NY; NYC
8:30 pm
Free
Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Piano Works by Janacek, Scriabin, Brahms, & More (In Person AND Online!)

Classical Music | Violin Works by Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, & More (In Person AND Online!)


Bright Johnston, violin. Program: Jessie Montgomery (1981-) Rhapsody No. 1 for Solo Violin Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) Souvenir d'un Lieu Cher, Op. 42 Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Violin Sonata No. 4 in A Minor, Op. 23
   New York City, NY; NYC
8:30 pm
Free
Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Violin Works by Tchaikovsky, Beethoven, & More (In Person AND Online!)
9:00 pm
Regular: $15
Member: $0
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Comedy Clubs, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Stand Up Comedy

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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9:00 pm
Free
Comedy Clubs, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Standup Show
9:30 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
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Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, Hits by Bon Jovi, Guns N&rsquo; Roses and More
11:30 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
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Concerts, March 21, 2026, 03/21/2026, "Soulful, Electric, and Timeless" Rock at Legendary Club
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Concert | Multi-Grammy Nominee and The Great American Songbook

Regular Price: $67
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Concert | Spirituals, Broadway Tunes and More at a Landmark Venue

Regular Price: $65
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Performance | 5-Star, One-of-a-Kind High-Energy Show!

Regular Price: $69
CFT Member Price: $0.00