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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!
40 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Wednesday, October 28, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.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
Workshop | Autumn Indoor Yoga
Yoga instructor Meg SantaMaria leads a morning practice. Suitable for all fitness levels. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring your own mat.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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9:30 am
free...
free...
Workshop | Artist-Led Figure Drawing in the Park
Placed in a unique setting, a model will strike short and long poses for participants to sketch and draw. An artist/ educator will offer constructive suggestions and critique. Drawing materials provided, or bring your own.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Museums | New York City: History, Architecture, Social Movements, Cultural Diversity
This museum holds over 1,5 million artifacts, including photographs, paintings, decorative arts, costumes, and documents that tell the story of New York's development and its inhabitants. Explore the galleries and discover the rich history and vibrant culture of New York City!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Camera & Lens Inspection & Cleaning Event
Technicians will be on hand to perform free camera basic checkups and cleanings on a first come, first served basis. Please make sure batteries are fully charged. Keeping your gear in tip-top shape is critical to making great photographs. Dust on the sensors, loose fittings, and schmutz on the lens (dirt smears) are all culprits in poor image-making. Photo Tech will do a free basic inspection, exterior cleaning, and if needed, a sensor cleaning as well. Camera brands applicable for this free service include Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, and Sony. (Please note: No disassembly of equipment, No test equipment, or service software will be onsite to check OEM specifications/standards) Other brands will not be supported. Feel free to drop by and bring your camera and/or lens anytime from 11am to 4pm. The service can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, so as the queue fills up, the cutoff time is subject to change at the venue's discretion. Final pickup time for your equipment will be at 5pm.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
Museums | Celebrate Chinese American Heritage & History
Step into a space dedicated to preserving, illuminating, and celebrating the rich history and contributions of Chinese in America. Connect with stories that inspire and bridge communities, honoring the legacy of generations who shaped the American narrative. Walk through galleries showcasing art, artifacts, and personal histories that reflect resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish for New...
pay-what-you-wish for New...
Museums | Exhibition Tour on Legacy of Innovative Modern Dance Teacher/Choreographer
The history of Martha Graham and her dance company is explored in a guided tour of the exhibition, Martha Graham: The Mother of Psychological Dance. The staff-led tour highlights the legacy of Graham and her dance technique, as well as the company, which is the oldest continuously operating dance company in the United States.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Free-Form Paint & Sip Session
Create your own artwork with some acrylic paint while you sip on some coffee or tea! This is not a painting class, you are free to paint whatever you wish. All materials provided, limited to 10 participants. First come, first served.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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11:00 am
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | French Petanque-Playing in the Park
Members of NYC’s oldest-running Petanque club guide a Petanque-playing session. This French lawn bowling game from the early 20th century is easy to learn, and the boules will be provided. Just bring yourself!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Museums | If Fashion is of Interest to You... An Exhibit of Elegance Awaits!
Best known for its innovation and award-winning exhibitions, the museum has a permanent collection of more than 50,000 garments and accessories dating from the eighteenth century to the present.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation 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
Tour | New York City Hall Guided Tour
One of the oldest continuously used city halls in the nation that still houses its original governmental functions, New York's City Hall is considered one of the finest architectural achievements of its period. Constructed from 1803 to 1812, the building was an early expression of the City's cosmopolitanism. City Hall is a designated New York City landmark, and its rotunda is also a designated interior landmark. Note: When registering, choose the "Individual Tour" option.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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12:00 pm
free, registration required...
free, registration required...
Classical Music | 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
Workshop | Adult Chorus Session Open to All
Directed by Church Street School of Music, the Downtown Beats adult chorus is open to all who love to sing! Learn contemporary and classic songs and perform at community events throughout the year.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free...
free...
Talk | Choreographer & Dancer Shares Her Research on Marth Graham's Works
Virginie Mécène, a former Principal Dancer, will discuss her experience in the reconstruction of Graham's Panorama, Prelude to Action, and The Puritan Duet from American Document, and the process of reimagining lost dances. As a 2023-2024 Dance Research Fellow, Virginie Mécène presented her research project, Making New Dances Inspired by Lost Solos of Martha Graham: Revolt (1927) and Immigrant (1928) at the Jerome Robbins Dance Division’s Annual Symposium on January 26, 2024.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Jazz | Timeless Jazz Standards
Relax to the sounds of classic jazz as guitarist Bill Wurtzel and guests perform timeless standards from the American Songbook. This lively midweek set offers a perfect musical break, blending smooth melodies and swing in an intimate setting. Note: Arrive early, as capacity is limited.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, registration required...
free, registration required...
Concert | Weekly Outdoor Bagpipe Tribute: Honoring 9/11 Lives and Legacies
A moving weekly bagpipe tribute honors those who lost their lives on 9/11, as well as individuals affected by the lasting health impacts of that day. The tribute begins with a performance near a symbolic column preserved from the site, followed by a second performance in a nearby outdoor space.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Museums | Afternoon in a Magnificent Small Museum
Internationally recognized as a premier museum and research center, this museum is known for its distinguished Old Master paintings and outstanding examples of European sculpture and decorative arts.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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1:30 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Film | Stan Helsing (2009): Horror-Comedy Film
Luckless video-store clerk Stan Helsing battles an onslaught of famous movie monsters after discovering he is a direct descendent of legendary vampire hunter Abraham Van Helsing. Director: Bo Zenga Cast: Steve Howey, Diora Baird, Kenan Thompson, Desi Lydic, Leslie Nielsen
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Landscape Art Class (Outdoors)
Artists of all skill levels can be inspired by park surroundings to create with drawing materials, pastels, and watercolors. Embolden your artwork amidst the flower-filled and seasonally evolving palette of verdant gardens. An artist/educator will provide ideas and instruction. Materials provided, and artists are encouraged to bring their own favorite media.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
City Walk | Halloween Photo Walk through 4 Bone-Chilling Locations
Portrait and editorial photographer Mike Foley leads a photo walk inspired by things that go bump in the night and places with eerie pasts. On this walk, the group will explore for different bone-chilling locations perfect for the end of October. In Autumn, when the leaves turn and the sun retires early, New York City plunges into its own kind of darkness. When the city that never sleeps starts to doze off, there are places that are just waking up. If you know where to look and listen, you can find these very places for yourself - sometimes they are right under your nose! Photo gear will not be provided.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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4:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | An Evening of Rowing in New York Harbor
At this rowing session, after a brief orientation, participants will be assigned to a crew with an experienced coxswain to steer the boat and a mixture of experienced and new rowers. The boats, Whitehall gigs, are stable, traditional working boats for four rowers and a coxswain. No experience is necessary and rowers of all ability levels are welcome! The rowing sessions last several hours and are designed to be excursions: groups row against the tide to a destination, take a break onshore or in a protected cove, then return home with the tide. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please complete the waiver before
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Workshop | Power Hour Running Session
This run is designed to help you move, build community, and have fun. All levels are welcome — walk, jog, or run at your own pace!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Workshop | Zumba Rhythms Workout in the Park
Welcome to Zumba with DeeKee in the park! Participants dance, sweat, and have a great time with friends and fellow Zumba enthusiasts. No experience is required, just come with a positive attitude and be ready to move your body to the rhythm of the music. Weather permitting. Please arrive 10 minutes before class begins.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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5:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Film | Black Christmas (1974): Classic Slasher FIlm
During their Christmas break, a group of sorority girls are stalked by a stranger. Director: Bob Clark Cast: Olivia Hussey, Keir Dullea, Margot Kidder, John Saxon
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Party | Board Games Meet-Up
This event features a variety of board games, including Scrabble, Chess, Boggle, Bananagrams, Scattergories, and more! Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels are welcome. Studies have shown that playing board games can have positive effects on your mental, emotional, and physical health, including: o Improving memory and focus o Enhancing critical thinking skills o Making connections o Reducing stress (and screen time!)
Manhattan, New York, NY
Join the Club!
6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Author Reading | Discover Contemporary European Literature
An evening of contemporary literary luminaries from 11 different countries addressing themes like time, authoritarianism, community, and more. European Literature Night (ELN) presents an evening of voices from across Europe through discussions, readings, and performances. For one evening, New York becomes a meeting place for acclaimed authors, translators, publishers, and readers from across Europe. Enjoy live readings, engaging conversations moderated by PEN America, book signings, a curated selection of featured titles, and a festive reception.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Book Discussion | Halloween Screening of Interview with the Vampire (1994)+ Discussion with Anne Rice's Editor
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Anne Rice's legendary novel Interview with the Vampire, a book that forever transformed the modern vampire story. Victoria Wilson, Anne Rice's longtime editor and publisher who discovered and championed her extraordinary career, will share personal stories and insights into the author and the enduring legacy of her groundbreaking novel. The evening will continue with a screening of the iconic film adaptation, followed by an opportunity to purchase copies of the newly published 50th anniversary edition, featuring a new afterword by Anne Rice's son, author Christopher Rice. Film synopsis: A vampire relates his epic life story of love, betrayal, loneliness, and dark hunger to an over-curious reporter.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Book Discussion | Launch Party and Book Signing for New WInter Holiday Memoir
Event introducing Oh Ho OH NO!: Twelve True Tales of Tinsel, Bedlam, and Unconditional Love. Author and Christmas maximalist Danny Lettieri in celebrating the official launch of his humorous memoir, Ho Ho, OH NO!: Twelve True Stories of Tinsel, Bedlam & Unconditional Love. Danny will read passages from the book in his inimitable style, and there’ll be wine and Christmas cookies for attendees. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Book Discussion | Quiet Reading Meet Up
Bring a book or check one out of the library to read to yourself for one hour. After that, spend an hour socializing with those around you!
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Dancing | Salsa Dancing on the Plaza (Lesson + Open Dance Floor)
Teachers with Mi Salsa Dura Baile lead an evening of Latin rhythm and dancing! Each class starts off with a lesson followed by an open dance floor.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:00 pm
free, no reservation required
free, no reservation required
Gallery Talk | Multi-Media Artist Discusses the Work of National Medal of Arts Winning Abstract Artist
Nandi Loaf on Agnes Martin. Nandi Loaf is an artist living and working in the 21st century. Across installation, sculpture, painting, performance, and choreographed encounters, she examines the role of the artist and the means of artistic production.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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6:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Screening | Samia (2024): Sports Documentary
Samia tells the inspiring story of Somali athlete Samia Yusuf Omar, who pursues her dream of participating in the Olympic Games despite difficult circumstances and societal restrictions. Growing up in Mogadishu as a talented runner, Samia is supported by her father in her athletic ambitions, while her mother is concerned about the dangers women face in sports. Based on true events, the film offers a powerful portrait of a young woman who fights for her freedom and dreams against all odds. Director: Yasemin Samdereli Doors open at 6:30PM.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Poetry Reading | Acclaimed Voices in Ukrainian Poetry Read Their Work + English-Language Translations
Poet as Witness brings together acclaimed Ukrainian poets and the English translators of their works to share readings and discussion on how poetry bears witness to a nation at war. Yaryna Chornohuz and Lesyk Panasiuk — two of the most vital voices in contemporary Ukrainian poetry — will read from their work, followed by English-language translations by Amelia Glaser, Ilya Kaminsky, and Katie Farris, offering audiences a rare opportunity to hear these poems both in the original Ukrainian and in translation. This event will be moderated by Amelia Glaser. Chornohuz, a soldier and 2024 Shevchenko Prize laureate, writes from the front lines with a soldier’s sober eye, turning the strange and the ordinary alike into moments of startling clarity; Panasiuk‘s work moves fluidly between the intimate and the historical, tracing how war reshapes language itself. The evening will also honor the poetry of Maksym Kryvtsov, the poet and soldier killed in action in January 2024, whose work has come to stand as one of the defining testimonies of this war: poems written in the trenches that speak with extraordinary clarity about loss, brotherhood, and what it means to fight for one’s homeland. Translated by Larissa Babij, his work will be published in 2027 by Jantar Press.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, donations welcome,...
free, donations welcome,...
Classical Music | Romantic Compositions for Piano & Cello, Celebrating Archival Pieces
Celebrated cellist Theodore Buchholz, joined by pianist Calvin Hu, will perform the cello and piano works of American composer Henry Hadley (1871-1937). The program draws on archived manuscripts and brings them back to New York for the first time in a century. Hadley, one of the most performed American composers of his era, wrote in an unapologetically Romantic voice even as the broader musical world was turning toward modernism. The program takes its title from one of these rediscovered works, Afterglow, a piece that Buchholz describes as capturing Hadley's devotion to a Romantic aesthetic whose sun had already set. Buchholz and Hu will perform selections from the archive, with Buchholz narrating the story of Hadley, the history of the archive itself, and his own decade-long relationship with this music.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Book Discussion | Social Psychiatrist Shares Her New Book on the World of K-Dramas
A reading and conversation with Mindy Thompson Fullilove to celebrate the recent release of The Tao of K-Drama: Wise Narratives for a Troubled World. Maura Spiegel will join as a conversant. About the book: K-dramas--South Korean television series that have captivated audiences worldwide--are often described as addictive, immersive, and emotionally generous. But in The Tao of K-Drama, Mindy Thompson Fullilove, MD, argues that they are something more consequential: a global site of collective meaning-making, where hundreds of millions of viewers encounter shared narratives of rupture, endurance, and repair. Far from mere entertainment, K-dramas offer a sophisticated vocabulary for living with--and through--trauma.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:00 pm
free, RSVP required
free, RSVP required
Concert | Grammy-Nominated, Coachella-Featured Brass Band Performs Jazz & New Classical Works
The ensemble will share works in progress, including new works by members of the ensemble.
Manhattan, New York, NY
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7:30 pm
free, registration required
free, registration required
Concert | Genre-Spanning Sound Drawing from Hip-Hop, Funk, Soul, Jazz, & Pop with Topaz Jones
Known for standout tracks like "Tropicana" and "Toothache," Topaz Jones is a rapper, producer, and filmmaker from Montclair, New Jersey, whose work blurs the boundaries between music, film, and visual art. His genre-spanning sound draws from Hip-Hop, funk, soul, jazz, and pop. Jones has amassed more than 70 million Spotify streams, and his acclaimed album and film Don't Go Tellin' Your Momma garnered awards at Sundance and SXSW. Whether performing on festival stages or headlining his own shows, Jones transforms every space with charisma, imagination, and unmistakable style. An evening with one of contemporary music's most dynamic creative voices--an evening that marks the 10th anniversary of Jones's debut album Arcade. 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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8:00 pm
free, fast-track option...
free, fast-track option...
8:00 pm
Regular: $55
Member: $0
Regular: $55
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | Tchaikovsky and More at a Landmark Venue
Regular Price: $55CFT Member Price: $0.00
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