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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!
38 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Tuesday, May 19, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Editor's Picks
Workshop | Learn & Practice the Chinese Martial Art of Tai Chi in the Park
Practice this traditional system of health and self-defense, derived from the philosphy of Taoism. Tai Chi was designed to develop the optimum degree of harmony between body and mind, as well as between the individual and the natural order of the universe. Classes are led by teachers and students who train nearby at CK Chu Tai Chi under the direction of Master Hyland Harris. Classes are rain or shine. All levels are welcome, and no equipment is necessary.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
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8:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Birdwatching | Morning Birding in the Park with NYC Audubon
Discover the surprising diversity of birds that call New York home during migratory season with guided tours by NYC Audubon, led by environmental educator and urban naturalist Gabriel Willow. This park is a hotspot for avian visitors and birders alike. Past sightings include warblers, tanagers, vireos, thrushes, and even a Chuck-will’s-widow!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Bike Racing, Tennis, Soccer, & Baseball
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 12:00pm Giro d'Italia Bike Racing
12:00pm - 2:30pm Tennis
2:30pm - 4:30pm - English Premier League
7:00pm - 10:00pm MLB NYY vs Toronto
*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
Galleries | Spring Jewels: Paintings, Paper, and Sculpted Illusions
Spring Jewels, which opens on May 19 an closes on June 26, 2026, brings together a selection of compelling and accessibly priced modern and contemporary masterworks by twenty-one artists. Included in the exhibition are early Twentieth Century works by Alexander Archipenko (1887- 1964), Oscar Bluemner (1867-1938), David Burliuk (1882-1967), and Max Weber (1881- 1961). Mid-century figurative works by sculptor, Chaim Gross (1902-1991), and painters Gregory Gillespie (1936-2000) and Raphael Soyer (1899- 1987) reflect each artist's distinct approaches to their subjects, linked by the quintessential humanism of their art. This exhibition is an exceptional selection of modern and contemporary masterworks spanning painting, sculpture, pastel, watercolor, and intricate paper construction. From luminous still lifes and vivid abstractions to intimate figurative scenes and meticulously crafted illusions, the exhibition highlights artists whose works transform modest scale into unforgettable presence.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Tour | A Walk Through Fashion, History, and Immigration: Garment District
Join born and raised New Yorker, Mike, in exploring the Garment District of New York. Learn about the apparel industry developed in New York and how it came to be located in its current district. Expect to hear about iconic designers Ralph, Oscar, and Calvin, as well as the Gangsters and Labor Unions that shaped New York and this District. Tour Guide Mike has spent the greater portion of his life working in the Garment industry himself -- expect first-hand anecdotes and wisdom
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Workshop | Zumba Workout
Enthusiastic instruction and easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography working on balance, coordination, and range of motion.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Museums | 400+ American Masterpieces on View: Final Day
Explore over 400 works exhibited by 18th-21st century American artists. The fair, which is marking its 19th year, features exhibitions by 18 premier specialists.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Carnegie Hall-Featured Musician Plays Brazilian & American Jazz
Come on down and swing along to the best Brazilian and American jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Luiz Simas. “Luiz epitomizes the fantasies we non-Brazilians have about that wonderful country, and with him, we all get to be Brazilian, at least for a couple hours!” - Judy Carmichael, pianist Brazilian/American pianist Luiz Simas is a versatile performer who feels totally at ease with both the music of his native Brazil and the American genres of jazz and ragtime. Keyboard magazine has described his playing as "sassy, clear and vibrant", and his music as "fresh, smart and witty". His latest CDs are Transparências (Transparencies), a solo piano CD released by Lydjul Records, and Deuce, a CD of the Simas & Amorim Duo with guitarist Wesley Amorim.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Volcano (1997): Disaster Film Starring Tommy Lee Jones
Follow an effort to divert the path of a dangerous lava flow through the streets of Los Angeles following the formation of a volcano at the La Brea Tar Pits. Director: Mick Jackson Cast: Tommy Lee Jones, Anne Heche, Gaby Hoffmann, Don Cheadle, Jacqueline Kim, Keith David, John Corbett, Michael Rispoli, John Carroll Lynch Tommy Lee Jones is an American actor whose earned an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Discussion | Group Discussion: Ken Burns' The American Revolution
In recognition of the 250th anniversary of 1776, the group will be exploring Ken Burns’ expansive, evenhanded documentary, The American Revolution. Watch on your own and come to discuss! Series available on pbs.org. At this session, the group will be discussing The American Revolution, Episodes 1 and 2.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Galleries | Gallery Walkthrough: Visual Essay Exhibition
Meet the artists in the School of Visual Arts' MFA Illustration as Visual Essay Thesis Exhibition during a guided tour at the gallery. Each artist will talk briefly about their project.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Discover & Discuss Poetry on Food
Poetry enthusiasts unpack the layered meanings of poetry through an informal group discussion. At this session, invigorate your senses with poems that reflect on the emotional and cultural significance of food. Readings are selected from Poetry Magazine, Academy of American Poets, and Poetry Foundation. Please note that contemporary poetry deals frankly with contemporary issues and all works discussed are artistic expressions selected for an adult audience.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Self-Portrait Painting Session in the Park (All Ages)
Participants paint self-portrait in acrylic, working from a mirror. The focus is on observation over likeness: finding the big shapes, light areas, and shadow masses rather than worrying about getting every feature perfect. Get inspired by the urban life, flowers, and monuments in the park, then express it with the provided drawing and craft supplies. Adults and kids alike are invited to get creative!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Film | Regretting You (2025): Romantic Drama
Centers on the strained relationship between young mother Morgan Grant and her teenage daughter Clara, exacerbated by Morgan's husband Chris's tragic death, forcing them to navigate life's challenges together. Director: Josh Boone Cast: Allison Williams, Mckenna Grace, Dave Franco, Mason Thames
Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Translate Everyday Objects into Still Life Art
Experience a relaxing and engaging still life drawing workshop designed for adults of all skill levels. Whether you're picking up a pencil for the first time or looking to refine your practice, this session offers a space to slow down, observe closely, and translate everyday objects into art. Working from a thoughtfully arranged tableau, participants will explore the fundamentals of drawing while developing their own style and approach. Emphasis will be placed on careful looking and experimentation rather than perfection. All basic materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own sketchbook or preferred drawing tools.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Museums | Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum
Discover a vast collection of art from a diverse range of countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Russia, France, Spain, Japan, India, United States and more. Tickets for Pay-What-You-Wish hours are available online only and released at 10 am the morning of the event.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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4:00 pm
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
Book Club | Discuss Normal People by Sally Rooney
Enjoy a discussion on Sally Rooney's Normal People, a story of mutual fascination, friendship, and love. It takes the audience from that first conversation to the years beyond, in the company of two people who try to stay apart but find that they can’t.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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4:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Once (2007): Romantic Musical Drama
A street musician meets an immigrant in Dublin, and together they record an album that tells their love story. Director: John Carney Cast: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Jazz | Celebrate Louis Armstrong's Legacy with American Symphony Orchestra Ensemble
The American Symphony Orchestra performs a musician-curated program of Louis Armstrong music, curated by longtime American Symphony Orchestra member Louis Bruno. The ASO Jazz Ensemble honors Louis Armstrong by performing a selection of his lesser-recorded works, including "Cool Cart Blues," "Don't Forget to Mess Around," "Hear Me Talkin' to Ya," "If We Never Meet Again," and "New Orleans Stomp." Featuring Alphonso Horne (trumpet), Zoe Obadia (saxophone and clarinet), Ron Wilkins (trombone and vocals), Steve Benson (guitar), Louis Bruno (bass), and Kory Grossman (drums).
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Party | Make New Friends Playing Board Games Outdoors
Organizers bring a wider selection of board games to the Games Cart at this event, with games like Ticket to Ride, Carcassonne, Catan, King of Tokyo and more. Not sure what to play? The Games Hosts can help you find the perfect game and match up players!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Book Launch: Double Happiness by Heather Eng
Heather Eng launches her new novel, Double Happiness, in conversation with Lauren Kung Jessen. About the book: Caught between a relentless tech job, her adoring fiancé, and an unexpected new flame, Mei must learn what it means to choose herself.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP 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
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Photographer Shares His New Book, Birds of Mexico City (+ Signing)
Enjoy a conversation with photographer Pieter Henket to celebrate his new book, Birds of Mexico City, a collection of beautiful portraits of young people in Mexico City, interweaving themes of gender, sexuality, heritage, and self-expression. He will be in conversation with Justin Gaspar, followed by a signing.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Party | Play Bridge in a Stress-Free Environment
The card game of Bridge requires four people to play: two teams of two people. Join the group with your bridge partner, or you will be matched with someone to play as a pair. If you would like to learn how to play bridge, organizers can offer some instruction, and you can observe others.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Discussion | Artists Explore How They Created the Acclaimed Semmelweis Opera & Album
Hear the inside story of the opera and new album on the story of Dr. Ignaz Semmelweis. Composer Raymond J. Lustig, album co-producer Maximilien Hein, and stage director Martin Boross will present selections from the album. The internationally acclaimed choral opera Semmelweis, based on the story of one of medicine's greatest visionaries, was first unveiled in a 2017 concert performance at the NAC, launching a major production and tour in Europe. This April, the ethereal music of Semmelweis returns in a boldly re-conceived studio album on the Sono Luminus label, to be released on CD, vinyl, all streaming platforms, and in immersive atmos surround format. Composer Raymond J. Lustig, album co-producer Maximilien Hein, stage director Martin Boross, and other project artists will present selections from the album, and discuss its path to development, from original idea to the grand stage to the final masters, with Q&A to follow.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Classical Music | BBC-Featured Piano Duo Performs Austrian & Czech Masterworks
Experience the expressive power of piano four hands as the Gugg Piano Duo - newly named to BBC Radio 3's prestigious New Generation Artists cohort for 2026-2028 - presents a richly colored program spanning Austrian and Czech masterworks to vibrant American modernism. At the center of the evening stands Schubert's monumental Grand Duo Sonata, a four-movement work whose symphonic breadth and luminous melodies push the piano beyond chamber music into orchestral territory. A contrasting turn follows with Dvorak's second Slavonic Dance, compact yet emotionally charged, moving from introspective E minor to a radiant E major. Smetana's The Moldau then unfolds in flowing lines and vivid imagery, tracing the famous river from its sources through the Czech landscape to Prague. The program concludes with John Corigliano's Gazebo Dances, a spirited suite inspired by the lightness and elegance of outdoor band concerts. Together, these works showcase the piano's extraordinary range of color, texture, intimacy, and grandeur. Program: Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Grand Duo Sonata Antonin Dvorak (1841-1904) Second Slavonic Dance Bedrich Smetana (1824-1884) The Moldau John Corigliano (1938-) Gazebo Dances
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Gallery Talk | Color and Other Topics: Inside a New Painting Exhibition
Artist Lisa Yuskavage joins writer and critic Jarrett Earnest for a conversation exploring the ideas, imagery, and process behind her newest paintings and works on paper. Held in conjunction with her latest exhibition, the discussion offers insight into Yuskavage’s evolving practice, use of color, and psychologically layered approach to figuration.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, RSVP required...
free, RSVP required...
Workshop | Dance Aerobics Class: Low Stakes & All Fun
Find your inner dancer and get your body moving with pure joy at this cathartic dance aerobics class! Low stakes, all fun, and open to all levels. Space 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
Workshop | Origami Group 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 is free and open 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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Classical Music | Choral Works by J.S. Bach, Dvorak, Lin-Manuel Miranda, & More
This concert culminates an exciting new citywide initiative where the New York Philharmonic, brings young people from grades 5-8 on musical journeys through a rich variety of vocal repertoire. Dr. Tyrone Clinton conducts the Philharmonic Youth Choir in their inaugural concert. Program: Laura Farnell (1975-) Gloria Fanfare J.S. Bach (1685-1750) (Arr. G. Edwards) Cantata No. 147: Chorale, Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring Antonin Dvorak (1841-1904) Vivace ma non troppo from String Quartet No. 12, Op. 96, American Lin-Manuel Miranda (1980-) (Arr. A. Lacmoire and B. Sherman) Breathe Benj Pasek (1985-) & Justin Paul (1985-) You Will Be Found Paul Simon (1941-) (Arr. K. Shaw) Bridge Over Troubled Water Lin-Manuel Miranda (1980-) (Arr. L. DeSpain) Hamilton Heights
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Screening | Fassbinder's World on a Wire (1973): German Sci-Fi Noir (+ Discussion)
This two-part film follows cybernetics engineer Fred Stiller, who takes over a mysterious research project after the sudden death of his predecessor. Set in a near-future society, the project simulates a virtual world populated by conscious "identity units", raising questions about reality and control. As Stiller investigates, people around him begin to disappear, suggesting that his own reality may itself be a simulation. The film combines a film noir atmosphere with early cyberpunk themes of artificial worlds, surveillance, and unstable identities. Director: Rainer Werner Fassbinder Cast: Klaus Lowitsch, Barbara Valentin, Mascha Rabben, Karl-Heinz Vosgerau Rainer Werner Fassbinder (1945 - 1982) was a German filmmaker, dramatist and actor. He lived fast and made films even faster, directing more than forty features, miniseries, and TV movies before his untimely death at age thirty-seven. He is widely regarded as one of the major figures and catalysts of the New German Cinema movement. This screening is presented in conjunction with the exhibition ERASE / REWIND by artist Jonathan Joosten. Joosten will be joined by exhibition curator Emily Pretzsch to discuss the film. In German with English subtitles.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Reading | Hedda: A Contemporary Reimagining of Power and Identity
Franky D. Gonzalez, a finalist in its New Visions play development program, presents his new play, Hedda. Inspired by Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler and set in a contemporary Dallas suburb, the play follows the unraveling of a carefully constructed life as past relationships resurface. Through tensions around race, ambition, gender, and institutional power, the work offers a sharp exploration of respectability and its personal costs.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, reservation required...
free, reservation required...
Classical Music | Evening of Diverse Chamber Works (In Person AND Online!)
This performance featuring ensembles with graduating musicians performing short works and selections from longer works.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Classical Music | Percussion Works by J.S. Bach & More (In Person AND Online!)
Jonas Koh, percussion. Program: Pablo Rieppi The Rite Jacob Druckman Reflections on the Nature of Water J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Violin Partita No. 2 in D Minor, BWV 1004 Bob Becker (1947-) Mudra
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Stargazing in the Park
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the night sky. The friendly team from the Amateur Astronomers Association will be there with high-powered telescopes, ready to reveal the secrets of the cosmos.
From sunset to 30 minutes before park closure.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:15 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Join the Club!
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Classical Music | J.S. Bach and Beethoven by Prominent Orchestra
Regular Price: $30CFT Member Price: $0.00
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