free things to do in New York City

Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More

8 free events take place in New York City on Monday, May 31, 2021.

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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!

8 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Monday, May 31, 2021

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

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Birdwatching | (IN-PERSON) Birding Tour in Midtown

Discover the surprising diversity of birds at this park. It is a hot spot for avian visitors and birders alike. Past sightings include warblers, tanagers, vireos, thrushes, and even a Chuck-will's-widow! Masks are required.

Manhattan, New York, NY

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8:00 am
free, registration required

Tour | Rome: Circus Maximus and Mouth of Truth (virual)

Learn the history and feel the grandeur of the Circus Maximus, the largest ippodromo where the Romans used to enjoy the chariot races. Hear the incredible story and the legend of the foundation of Rome. Walk to the foro boario, ancient cattle market of Romans to see ancient Roman temples and the iconic mouth of truth you have seen in Roman Holidays with Gregory Peck and Audrey Epburn.

Manhattan, New York, NY

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9:00 am
free, tips welcome,...

Festival | (IN-PERSON, outdoors) Japan Performing Arts: Dance, Music & Kimono

JPA's outdoor cultural program "Dance, Music & Kimono" this year introduces 10 different variation of Japan's performances, lectures and workshops. Some performance programs are designed to enjoy stage shows, and others welcome participants to join. The perfect green environment on Governors Island provides the perfect setting to engage in exercise activities with Japanese music and dance. Programs currently planned: Dance to Japanese Pop Songs Frisode Kimono Dressing Demonstration Enka Band Performance Yukata Casual Summer Kimono Workshop Awa Odori (Dance), Gujo Odori (Dance), Nihon Buyo (Traditional Japanese Dance) Traditional Japanese Hair Dressing Demonstration Furoshiki Wrapping Workshop Having Fun with Traditional Japanese Toys and more. May 22-23, 29-31, 2021.

Manhattan, New York, NY

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11:00 am
free...

Concert | (IN-PERSON, outdoors) Piano Music in a Park

Piano concert series, showcasing ragtime, stride, and jazz pianists. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Manhattan, New York, NY

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12:30 pm
free...

Workshop | (IN-PERSON, outdoors) Zumba in a Park

Zumba is a fusion of Latin and International music, utilizing dance themes that create a dynamic, exciting, effective fitness program. This socially-distanced class features aerobic training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. Sneakers are recommended. The class takes place every Monday until Oct 25, 2021. Check-in begins at 5:30 pm. Masks are required. Must sign a waiver before participating. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Brooklyn, New York, NY

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6:00 pm
free, advanced registration...

Concert | The New York Philharmonic: Memorial Day Concert (virtual, live stream)

A journey from the somber to the sublime. Gemma New conducts beloved classics, Jessie Montgomery's vivid musical depiction of the Lower East Side of her youth, and Carlos Simon's Beethoven-inspired ode to triumph over fate. The performance in the glorious Cathedral of St. John the Divine will be streamed live. Program Mahler Adagietto from Symphony No. 5 Mozart Masonic Funeral Music Jessie Montgomery Records from a Vanishing City Carlos Simon Fate Now Conquers Schubert Symphony in B minor, Unfinished

Manhattan, New York, NY

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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required

Classical Music | String Quartet Performs Beethoven and More (virtual, live stream)

Descrived as "sublime" by the New York Times, The Dover Quartet has performed in recent seasons at Carnegie Hall (with Emanuel Ax) and at Wigmore Hall in London. Program Beethoven String Quartet in B-flat Major, op. 130 William Grant Still Lyric String Quartette

Manhattan, New York, NY

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7:30 pm
free, no reservation required

Open Mic | Monday Night Online Open Mic (Zoom)

A poetry-specific open mic hosted by Advocate of Wordz. Sign up to perform one poem (5 minutes or less) at our next online open mic by RSVP'ing a slot. They offer 25 guaranteed performance slots and 10 waitlist slots on a first-come, first-served basis. The open mic is non-competitive, and there's no cover charge.

Manhattan, New York, NY

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8:00 pm
free

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Complimentary Tickets

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

Dance Performance | "Astonishing" Choreographer

Regular Price: $54
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Performance | Comedy by 13-time Emmy Winner with Broadway Actors

Regular Price: $69
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Classical Music | Holiday Concert at a Landmark Venue

Regular Price: $40
CFT Member Price: $0.00