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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!
33 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Friday, October 16, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.
Workshop | Morning Yoga on the Plaza
Start your morning off balanced and refreshed with a yoga class led by local yoga instructors Mariah and Frances. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Tai Chi (Outdoors)
Improve balance, strength, and focus through gentle exercises. The sights and sounds of the harbor provide a serene background for the ancient flowing postures.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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8:30 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Festival | Explore Behind-the-Scenes Spaces of New York City
Discover the spaces of New York City that you've never had access to before--across all five boroughs! This weekend-long festival unlocks over 300 destinations across the city for special tours and activities. Enjoy visits to major new projects, explore neighborhoods in a new way, and discover why the city looks and works the way it does. Take a look at new buildings transforming the skyline, step inside infrastructure facilities keeping the city running, explore parks offering respite, discover state-of-the-art performance spaces, visit manufacturing workshops, browse private collections, and much more. Many museums, monuments, arts spaces, historical societies, architectural projects, and more are open for visitors. Many festival experiences are Drop-In--no tickets needed. Some require tickets for space or security reasons. Ticketing opens on October 3 at 12 pm.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free for drop-in...
free for drop-in...
Museums | Friday at Pop Culture/Art Museum
Through temporary exhibitions, a growing permanent collection, and educational events, this museum examines the significant influence of posters on society and culture, and how they are adapted for modern use. As the first poster museum in the United States, it offers a space for inquiry for anyone interested in design, advertising, and public interventions, with the goal of enhancing design literacy among the general public.
Works explore:
mass communication and persuasion
the intersection of art and commerce
control of the public domain
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Zumba Workout for All
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 | Asian Art and Culture Museum
The museum features a diverse collection of artworks, including traditional and contemporary pieces from various Asian cultures. They typically have guided tours at 2 pm.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, reservation required
free, reservation required
Discussion | Weill Cornell Ob-Gyn Discusses Women's Health through Age
Susan Loeb-Zeitlin, M.D., FACOG, explores the role of hormones during midlife, including common changes women may experience and how these shifts can affect overall health and well-being, as well as how they can be treated. More About Hormones: Midlife Women Hormonal changes are a natural part of midlife for women, with shifts in estrogen and other hormones potentially affecting sleep, mood, energy, metabolism, bone health and overall well-being. Understanding these changes and the range of symptoms that may accompany them can help women make informed decisions about their health and explore strategies for managing symptoms and supporting healthy aging.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
Film | Good Valley Stories (2025): Spanish Documentary
On the outskirts of Barcelona, Vallbona is an enclave bordered by a river, railway tracks, and a highway. Antonio, the son of Catalan workers, has been growing flowers here for nearly 90 years. He’s been joined by Makome, Norma, Tatiana, coming from everywhere... To the rhythm of music, forbidden swims, and budding romances, a poetic form of resistance emerges against the urban, social, and identity conflicts of the world. Director: José Luis Guerin
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:30 am
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Workshop | Learn to Juggle in the Park
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
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Classical Music | An Afternoon of Organ Works by J.S. Bach in a Beautiful Church (In Person AND Online!)
Take a momentary respite from a busy day to enjoy a selection of organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach in an intimate venue.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:20 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Film | Days of Wine and Roses (1962): Classic Romantic Drama
An alcoholic marries a young woman and systematically addicts her to booze so that they can share his "passion" together. Director: Blake Edwards Cast: Jack Lemmon, Lee Remick, Charles Bickford, Jack Klugman, Alan Hewitt Short film discussion to follow.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Artmaking on the Plaza with a Professional Artist
Led by a local teaching artist, this drop-in class invites participants to explore creativity through hands-on artmaking. Past mediums have included plein-air drawing, printmaking, cyanotypes, and more. All materials are provided.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Crafting Community: Work on Personal Projects & Make New Friends
Freeform crafting and conversation! Bring your own project or choose something from the collection to work on. The organizers have materials for sewing, knitting, crochet, coloring, and paper crafts. All programs are subject to change or cancellation.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, 1 drink...
free, 1 drink...
Film | Stanley Kubrick's The Shining (1980): Psychological Horror Film with Jack Nicholson & Shelley Duvall
A family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter, where a sinister presence influences the father into violence. At the same time, his psychic son sees horrifying forebodings from both the past and the future. Director: Stanley Kubrick Cast: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Scatman Crothers, Danny Lloyd Stanley Kubrick was an American film director, screenwriter, producer, and photographer. Widely considered one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, his films were nearly all adaptations of novels or short stories, spanning a number of genres and gaining recognition for their intense attention to detail, innovative cinematography, extensive set design, and dark humor. While many of Kubrick's films were controversial and initially received mixed reviews upon release, most were nominated for Academy Awards, Golden Globes, or BAFTA Awards, and underwent critical re-evaluations. Jack Nicholson is an American retired actor and filmmaker. Nicholson is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of the 20th century. Throughout his five-decade career, he received numerous accolades, including three Academy Awards, three BAFTA Film Awards, six Golden Globe Awards, and a Grammy Award. He also received the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award in 1994 and the Kennedy Center Honor in 2001. Shelley Duvall was an American actress and producer widely known for her portrayal of distinctive, often eccentric characters. In the 1980s, Duvall became famous for her leading roles, which include Olive Oyl in Altman's live-action feature version of Popeye (1980) and Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick's horror film The Shining (1980).
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Accessing NYC Health Insurance
Representatives from NY State of Health, the official health plan marketplace from NYS Department of Health, will share updates on recent policy changes and outline coverage options in New York City.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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3:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Movie in a Park | Wicked (2024): Broadway Fantasy Musical Adaptation with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande (Outdoors)
Elphaba, a young woman ridiculed for her green skin, and Galinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads. Director: Jon M. Chu Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum Cynthia Erivo is a British actor and singer. She's appeared both on stage and on screen, and has been nominated for an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award (EGOT), winning the Emmy, Grammy, and Tony. As a solo singer, she has released one album. Ariana Grande is an American singer, songwriter, and actress, best known for her solo singing career. She has acted on Broadway, television, and film. Wicked is the first feature film in which she has played a significant role. She has two Grammy Awards, a Brit Award, two Billboard Music Awards, three American Music Awards, ten MTV Video Music Awards, and thirty-seven Guinness World Records. For her role in Wicked, she was nominated for an Oscar. Complimentary popcorn for all guests. Doors open one hour before the start time of the movie.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Museums | American History and Artifact Collections
Enjoy a stroll through galleries of an extensive collection of American art, learn about the history of New York and the USA. Last admission is at 7 pm.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Museums | Friday Evening at the Art/History Museum
This museum is an assemblage of illuminated, literary, and historical manuscripts, early printed books, and old master drawings and prints inside a historic building. Registration opens 7 days in advance & does sell out.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Museums | Friday Night Function at an Iconic Art Museum
Enjoy art, drinks, special programming, music, city views, and more! Throughout the night, there will be a few "15-minute tours," highlighting different parts of the collection.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, tickets required
free, tickets required
Book Discussion | National Book Critics Circle Award Winning Author & Editor of Bestsellers in Conversation
A conversation with Yahdon Israel and Claudia Rankine. The event will conclude with a reception/signing with books for sale. Yahdon Israel is a cultural steward, editor, and educator who helps cultural figures and institutions transform important ideas into lasting public impact. After more than five years as a Senior Editor at Simon & Schuster, where he edited award-winning and bestselling books, he founded The Compound Collective, a cultural strategy agency that partners with authors, artists, athletes, nonprofits, and cultural institutions to engineer cultural impact. Claudia Rankine is the author of eight books, including Just Us: An American Conversation, Citizen: An American Lyric, and Don’t Let Me Be Lonely: An American Lyric.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Museums | Friday Evening at the Famous Art Museum
This special, all-ages evening celebrates the art and the city. Explore in the galleries, get creative with drop-in drawing sessions, and see a film in the theaters. Museum stores and cafe will be open, too, so you can grab a bite, get drinks, or shop for unique design objects. Free for New York State residents but must be reserved in advance (up to two adults), and are subject to availability and proof of residency. Tickets are released one week in advance.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free for New...
free for New...
Workshop | Pilates in the Park
Club Pilates leads a series of controlled movements that emphasize proper form and breathing techniques to strengthen and improve flexibility in the core, back, and lower body. For ages 16+.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Watercolor Painting Session with Jazzy Tunes
An hour of watercolor painting while listening to jazz. No formal experience is required. Watercolor painting supplies will be supplied, but the activity is self-instructed.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
5:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Gallery Talk | Explore Historical Furniture Traditions with Woodworker/Artist in a Museum
See the museum collection through an artist’s eyes. Hear the thoughtful perspective of woodworker and Vacheron Constantin Artisan in Residence Aspen Golann, and explore historical furniture traditions. Golann will speak in the exhibition Cottage Industry: The Val-Kill Furniture Shop, celebrating the groundbreaking enterprise, which was led by women and shaped by immigrant and rural craftspeople.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free with museum...
free with museum...
Book Discussion | Pushcart Prize-Winning Novelist Shares His Latest Book, Passengers
Alexander Maksik celebrates his newest novel, the story of a father and daughter reckoning with each other, and with the looming collapse of the outside world. He will be in conversation with Michael Reynolds, followed by a signing.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
7:00 pm
Regular: $50
Member: $0
Regular: $50
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Concert | Eclectic Beats
DJ Malik Rio is a multitalented DJ and creative visionary proudly representing Harlem, curating music that reflects his passion for sound, fashion, and self-expression. With a distinctive musical style, he creates experiences that feel authentic, expressive, and uniquely his own. Malik has played the turntables at venues including The Row Harlem, Harlem Hookah, Pianos, The Williamsburg Hotel, Harlem Mason, Mr. Purple, and Water Grill, building a loyal following while continuing to bring music, creativity, and style together through his artistry.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Play | The Crucible: Arthur Miller's Historical Drama
A Salem resident attempts to frame her ex-lover's wife for being a witch in the middle of the 1692 witchcraft trials. Playwright: Arthur Miller Director: Harry George Brook Cast: Teddy Fischer, Maya Mays, Lena Moore, Jamisen Dowdy, Elena Falkow, Greg Hofmann, Jalexis James
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, tickets required
free, tickets required
Screening | Buster Keaton's The General (1926): Silent Comedy Film (+ Live Orchestral Score)
Buster Keaton's beloved silent-film classicon the big screen, with Carl Davis's celebrated score, performed live by the (Un)Silent Film Orchestra. Set during the American Civil War, The General follows railroad engineer Johnnie Gray as he sets out on an extraordinary mission to rescue his beloved locomotive, and the woman he loves. Widely regarded as one of the greatest silent comedies ever made, the film combines Keaton's signature physical comedy, daring stunts, and inventive visual storytelling. Directors: Buster Keaton & Clyde Bruckman Cast: Buster Keaton, Marion Mack Buster Keaton was an American actor, comedian and film director best known for his silent films during the 1920s, in which he performed physical comedy and inventive stunts. He frequently maintained a stoic, deadpan facial expression that became his trademark and earned him the nickname "The Great Stone Face."
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Film | Korean Film Festival: Karma (2026) -- Korean Documentary (+ Director Q&A)
Inside a small judicial scrivener's office at the Seongnam Branch of Suwon District Court, people arrive daily carrying the weight of debt. The father helps them file for rehabilitation and bankruptcy, though he himself is drowning in what he owes. Eight years ago, the filmmaker - who once dreamed of becoming a poet - abandoned his studies and took a seat beside his father, fearing that debt might one day drive him to suicide. As a clerk, he witnesses the endless circulation of suffering caused by money, obligation, and survival. Threaded through this struggle is the quiet presence of his mother, a Buddhist nun who returned to monastic life to repay the debts of her temple, and who eventually achieved financial peace. Between a father still struggling and a mother who endured, the film searches for a modest hope: not redemption, but the possibility of continuing to live. Director: Kim Myun-woo Intro and Q&A with KIM MYUNWOO and KIM SUNAH. English subtitles available.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Concert | Latin American Folk & Flamenco
Madrid-based Chilean duo Emilia y Pablo will make their U.S. debut, bringing their stirring blend of music to the stage. Armed with delicate but powerful guitars, boldly resonant vocals, and cinematic visuals, Emilia y Pablo present folklore as a universal language with broad phrasing. Whether incorporating sounds of joropo (Venezuela and Colombia), bolero (Cuba and Mexico), chacarera (Argentina), or Spanish flamenco culture, Emilia y Pablo's unique, expressive performances translate beyond borders. 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.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, fast-track available
free, fast-track available
Dance Performance | Multi-Choreographer Autumn Dance Concert
Enjoy a the October Concert performed by NYU's Second Avenue Dance Company. This performance features choreography by Company Choreographers Nyah Arne, Aidan Gresock, London Ludwig, Sophia Nielson, Shloka Porwal, and Olivya Sessing; Guest Choreographers Kayla Farrish and Yasmeen Godder.
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
7:30 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | "Virtuoso" Pianist Performs Works by Liszt & More
Regular Price: $50CFT Member Price: $0.00
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