free things to do in New York City
Free events for Sunday, 10/12/25
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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 October 12, 2025?

24 free events take place on Sunday, October 12 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 October 12 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 October . 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!

24 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Sunday, October 12, 2025

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Sunday Fun at an Iconic Art Museum
free events nyc Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
free events nyc Beowulf: One-Act Adaptation of the Classic Heroic Epic Poem
free events nyc NPR-Featured Pianist Performs Significant Bach Work
free events nyc Roller Rink Party with Live DJ
free events nyc Confronting Antisemitism: Lessons from Pittsburgh (In Person AND Online!)
free events nyc Works by Ravel, Bartok, & More for Flute & Piano in a Beautiful Church
        

Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Football


Today's Schedule: 9:30am - 12:30pm NFL Broncos vs NY Jets 3:15pm - 4:25pm NFL Dallas vs North Carolina 4:25pm - 7:30pm NFL New England vs New Orleans 8:00pm - 11:00pm NFL Detroit vs Kansas City *Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 am
Free

Fair | Chinese Culture and Food Festival on the Upper West Side


This event features experiential activities, tastings, and market fairs showcasing the vibrant food, art and cultural traditions from China. It is a cultural platform that connects people in New York to Chinese restaurants, food vendors, artists, and local communities.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Fair | West Side Street Series - Artisanal Goods & Global Eats


Celebrate community, creativity, and culture at this vibrant street fair! There will be over 80 vendor booths featuring a wide variety of arts and crafts goods, handmade treasures, merchandise vendors, antiques, collectibles, and much more. Enjoy delicious food, live music, games, rides, and a variety of fun activities.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free

Museums | Sunday Fun at an Iconic Art Museum


Enjoy a full day of art and inspiration on the second Sunday of every month! Explore exhibitions, join family-friendly artmaking activities inspired by works on view, listen to storytimes presented by The New York Public Library, take part in guided tours, and soak in stunning city views.
   New York City, NY; NYC
10:30 am
Free

Festival | Celebrate Diwali in the Heart of the City (Shopping Bazaar, Food, Performances, Kid Activities, & More)


This Diwali festival features a vibrant and engaging Diwali Bazaar as well as a dedicated Kids Zone, where children can paint diyas, create colorful Rangoli art, and enjoy interactive storytelling activities. The afternoon will feature the 'Colors of India' program, exhibiting spectacular dance performances from different cultures around the world. In the evening, dignitaries will join together for a special Diya Lighting Ceremony with a countdown on the Ball Drop Tower screen, leading into the highly anticipated Light Up Times Square Concert.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Museums | Día de Muertos Celebration


Celebrate loved ones with bilingual art-making, Storytime, music, and community storytelling in a vibrant, family-friendly day of remembrance.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Tour | Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century


This historic site honors the early life of a renowned American figure. The restored brownstone reflects late 19th-century architecture and offers insights into the family's daily life. Learn about various exhibits and artifacts that showcase the cultural and historical context of the era, providing a glimpse into the formative years of this visionary leader-to-be. This guided tour is first-come, first-served. It may reach capacity before your desired tour time, so please be sure to arrive early. Tour duration: 45 minutes. This tour takes place at 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Fair | Lively Lower Manhattan Street Fair 


Celebrate community, creativity, and fall at this vibrant street fair! There will be an array of local vendor booths. Enjoy delicious food, live music, games,  and a variety of fun activities. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free

Workshop | Rowing Along the New York City Skyline


Open to all and led by experienced coxswains, these outings take place in stable, traditional Whitehall gigs, offering a hands-on introduction to rowing, teamwork, and river navigation. Sessions include orientation and group rowing excursions lasting 1-3 hours. Participants assist with launching and cleaning the boats. Bring water and sunscreen. Life jackets are provided; a waiver is required for participation.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free

Staged Reading | Experience Spoon River Anthology, Performed Outdoors


Enjoy an hour of dramatic readings from Edgar Lee Masters' classic work, Spoon River Anthology. Immerse yourself in the lives and secrets of the residents of Spoon River as talented actors bring their stories to life. This event will take place in a beautiful outdoor setting perfect for enjoying literature under the sky. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the timeless tales of Spoon River in a magical setting. Directed by Timothy Gage.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Festival | Family Harvest Celebration in the Park (Pumpkin Picking, Arts & Crafts, & Live Music)


This autumnal festival packs a punch with plenty of exciting fall activities for the whole family. Visit the pumpkin patch, pick your own pumpkin, and decorate it! Enjoy arts and crafts, tattoos, and take a stroll through the Spooky Trail. Don't miss a family concert in the playground with Patrick and the Rock-a-Silly Band.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Book Club | Reading Rhythms Party: Socialize with Other Bookworms


Unplug and unwind at Reading Rhythms, a unique outdoor reading party designed to build community through books. With live music, structured reading time, and guided discussions, this mindful gathering blends solo reflection with social connection. Bring your own book and a mat or blanket for added comfort.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Performance | Beowulf: One-Act Adaptation of the Classic Heroic Epic Poem


ActorJohn Heimbuch performs Charlie Bethel's Beowulf, a tour-de-force adaptation of the classic Old English poem about a warrior king and three famous monsters. This fierce one-person telling modernizes the wit, vigor, and meaty language of the original Anglo-Saxon epic, making the oldest tale in the English language into a relatable high fantasy adventure. 60 minutes, no intermission.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free

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

Jazz | Authentic Blues in the Park


This Blues Hall of Fame band plays authentic Blues from around the country for a special New York sound.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Award-Winning Dylan Hamme Performs Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto at Carnegie Hall


Rising violinist Dylan Hamme makes his Carnegie Hall debut performing Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto with Maestro Constantine Kitsopoulos and the Senior Concert Orchestra of New York. Winner of the 2025 Waldo Mayo Violin Competition, Hamme presents a captivating performance showcasing his award-winning artistry. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists


Berta Indeed presents “Let the Music Play”, a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. 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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2:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | NPR-Featured Pianist Performs Significant Bach Work


Former From the Top host, Christopher O'Riley, piano, plays one of the most important pieces in classical music history. Program: J.S. Bach (1685-1750) Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2 Part 2
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free

Party | Roller Rink Party with Live DJ


Get ready to roll into the excitement at an outdoor skate circle . With live DJs spinning the tunes, these events are as much fun to watch as they are to join! Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, bring your own skates and get ready to groove with roller dancing. All skill levels are welcome. This is a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all ages. Children under 14 must wear helmets for safety.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:45 pm
Free

Classical Music | Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue


Enjoy a program of hymns, anthems, and voluntaries for the organ.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free

Discussion | Confronting Antisemitism: Lessons from Pittsburgh (In Person AND Online!)


Yair Rosenberg of The Atlantic, in conversation with Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, moderated by Carole Zawatsky, CEO of The Tree of Life, as they examine the rise of antisemitism and its consequences. Using the aftermath of the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history as a lens, this discussion explores the dangers of hate and paths toward a safer, more inclusive future.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Fix Your Bike!


Need to fix your bike? Bring it in for a free open shop session, where you can use tools and repair stands to work on your ride. Experienced mechanics will be on hand to guide you, but the work is all yours--perfect for learning and doing it yourself.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Works by Ravel, Bartok, & More for Flute & Piano in a Beautiful Church


Olga Radovic, piano, and Michelle Zarco, flute, perform a series of pieces from the Romantic period through today. Program: Lili Boulanger (1893-1918) Nocturne for Flute and Piano Robert Schumann (1810-1856) Adagio and Allegro, Op. 70 Maurice Ravel (1875-1937) Sonatine Olga Radovic (b. 1994) Opus 1 for Flute and Piano Bela Bartok (1881-1945) Suite Paysanne Hongroise Sz. 71
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:15 pm
Free

Concert | An Evening of Acoustic Song & Storytelling


Unwind with an intimate evening of live acoustic music as part of the ongoing Nightmusic series. This week’s performance features singer-songwriter Justine Magnusson, bringing warmth and energy to the cozy back room.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Play | Broadway Actors in a Comedy by Award Winner

Regular Price: $69
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Classical Music | Holiday Concert at a Landmark Venue

Regular Price: $75
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Jazz | Christmas Concert with Groundbreaking Musician at Legendary Jazz Club

Regular Price: $65
CFT Member Price: $0.00