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free things to do in New York City
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, March 17, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
March 17, 2026. Free shows, free concerts, free movies, free tours, free readings, worshops, lectures, etc. are New York's best kept secret! Learn all about it and do not miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides: NYC never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So start using these unique New York City opportunities today, March 17, 2026!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, March 17, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in New York City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (March 17, 2026) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
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!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
Editor's Picks
29 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Central Park Running Session (All Levels Welcome)
If you prefer not to run alone or are looking to improve your running performance, you can run with a club! Open to runners of all levels. Weekly changed routes through the park. Coaches, training, running company and inspiration!
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Chess Open Play
Make your move at a chess event featuring strategy, fun, and friendly competition for players of all ages and skill levels. Explore the game through open play. Grab a friend or co-worker and play the game on our giant indoor chess board underneath the palm trees. Whether you're making your first move or mastering your endgame, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Master Class | Explore the Ins & Outs of Great Cello Performance
Celleist Tommy Mesa, with the Haute École de musique, imparts skills and techniques for cello mastery, via distance learning.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Adult Zumba
Featuring easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography. Work on your balance, coordination and range of motion.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:30 am
Free
Free
Parade | Celebrating 265 Years of Irish Culture
Celebrate Irish-American heritage as Grand Marshal Robert J. McCann leads the annual procession through New York City. This year marks the 250th anniversary of the United States and honors the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with solemn remembrance. The parade recognizes the Irish community's enduring contributions to American public service, education, infrastructure, and civic life.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Classical Music | Afternoon Bach
Take a momentary respite from a busy day to enjoy a selection of organ works by Johann Sebastian Bach in an intimate venue.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:20 pm
Free
Free
Film | Life of Crime (2013): Black Comedy Crime Film with Jennifer Aniston
Two common criminals get more than they bargained for after kidnapping the wife of a corrupt real-estate developer who shows no interest in paying the $1 million dollar ransom for her safe return. Director: Daniel Schechter Cast: Jennifer Aniston, Yasiin Bey, Isla Fisher, Will Forte, Mark Boone Junior Jennifer Aniston is an actress who has earned a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. Aniston has consistently ranked among the world's highest-paid actresses.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Mah Jongg & More
A dedicated group of adult American Mah Jongg enthusiasts for friendly and informal games, or try your hand at other card and board games. Make friends and catch up with neighbors. Sets, cards, and games provided, or bring your own.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Irish-American Poetry Discussion Circle
Participate with fellow poetry enthusiasts in unpacking the layered meanings of poetry through an informal group discussion. This month, celebrate St. Patrick's Day with poems from the tradition of Irish American poetry. Please note that contemporary poetry deals frankly with contemporary issues and all works discussed are artistic expressions selected for an adult audience.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Wicked: For Good (2025) | Broadway Adaptation Musical Fantasy Sequel with Star-Studded Cast
Set in the Land of Oz before and during the events of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the film follows Elphaba and Glinda in their new identities as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Director: Jon M. Chu Cast: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Jazzy Percussion by Dizzy Gillespie & More (In Person AND Online!)
Karl Wind Seyer-Hansen, jazz drums. Program: James Van Heusen (1913-1990) Here's That Rainy Day Irving Berlin (1888-1989) The Best Thing For You (Would Be Me) Karl Wind Seyer-Hansen Untitled Original Thaddeus Joseph Jones (1923-1986) To You Frank Foster (1982-) Simone Wayne Shorter (1933-2023) Seeds of Sin Dizzy Gillespie (1917-1993) Woody'n You
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Performance | You Have the Right To Remain Heard: Documentary Theater Piece on Police Relationship with Youth
Watch a documentary theater piece about the challenging relationship between Black and Brown youth and the police. This event was developed from a grass-roots, theater-based intervention based on workshops involving youth and police officers. The hour-long presentation involves five actors who portray young people and police officers in dramatic and comedic episodes. The event will include a talk-back for reflection on the content of the material and to consider policy needs for community policing. Written by Juan Ramirez. Choreographed by Tislam Bouie with original music from Imam Bundridge. Directed by Donathan Walters.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Group Writing Session
Writers of all experience levels and mediums are welcome to participate in this writing session. Each session will begin with dedicated free writing time before the group dives into a prompt or exercise-driven writing. The prompts and exercises will be geared towards generating ideas for subjects and developing various technical skills.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn the Basics of Street Photography
Learn how to document the streets with a sense of purpose and passion. The group will discuss best practices for navigating street photography, along with how to use inspiration to find your own voice and become a more confident storyteller. The culture of street photography has changed over the past few decades, from an art that thrived on stories told through a voyeuristic lens to a socially burgeoning genre centered around interaction and connection. Photographer Derek Fahsbender opens the door to street photographer, from tips for beginners to more nuanced conversations about the philosophical side of the art. Explore the various approaches, from gear and technique to the ever-changing face of today's street photography landscape.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Small Things Like These (2024): Historical Drama with Cillian Murphy
In 1985 Ireland, a devoted father discovers disturbing secrets being kept at a local convent and uncovers shocking truths about his own past. Director: Tim Mielants Cast: Cillian Murphy, Eileen Walsh, Michelle Fairley, Clare Dunne Cillian Murphy is an Irish actor. He earned a Golden Globe Award nomination in 2005. Murphy began his collaboration with filmmaker Christopher Nolan in 2005, playing Scarecrow in The Dark Knight trilogy (2005-2012) as well as appearing in Inception (2010), and Oppenheimer (2023). He has received several accolades over the course of his career, including four Irish Film & Television Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Cello Works by Chopin, Boccherini & More (In Person AND Online!)
Reinier Frederik Wink, cello. Program: Luigi Boccherini (1743-1805) Sonata for Cello Solo and Bass in C Minor, G. 2 Giovanni Benedetto Platti (1697-1763) Concerto in C Major Frederic Chopin (1810-1849) Cello Sonata in G Minor, Op. 65 David Popper (1843-1913) Spanish Dances, Op. 54
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Anthropologist Shares Her New Book, Against Innocence
Miriam Ticktin discusses her new book, Against Innocence, with Ruth Wilson Gilmore. In this timely and bold book, Miriam Ticktin explores how a concept that consistently appears as a moral good actually ends up creating harm for so many.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
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.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | Authors Discuss Pivotal Figures in the Fight Against Book Banning (In Person AND Online!)
Attend a conversation about early attempts at book banning and the struggle to bring James Joyce's Ulysses to readers with authors Gayle Feldman of Nothing Random: Bennett Cerf and the Publishing House He Built and Adam Morgan of A Danger to the Minds of Young Girls: Margaret C. Anderson, Book Bans, and the Fight to Modernize Literature. Together, Feldman and Morgan will explore two pivotal figures who reshaped American publishing, challenged the boundaries of literary freedom, and fought for readers’ right to read.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Learn about the Jewish Experience in New York & Vienna in the 1940s
This talk, by Marsha L. Rozenblit (the Harvey M. Meyerhoff Professor of Modern Jewish History at the University of Maryland), will explore how Jews from Austria coped with American realities and used nostalgia for the Habsburg Monarchy as a way to adjust to their new lives in America. Jews who fled Nazi Austria after the Anschluss in 1938 went to many places, but primarily to the United States, where they tried to make new homes for themselves. In so doing, many of them imagined that democratic America resembled the old Habsburg Monarchy, with its tolerance for ethnic diversity. They even imagined that the American president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was like the beloved Habsburg Emperor Franz Joseph, and New York was like Vienna.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
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.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Book Launch: New Young Adult Fantasy Novel, Prodigal Tiger
Cross-platform storyteller Samantha Chong launches her new book, Prodigal Tiger, in conversation with author Kat Cho. This book is an action-packed YA contemporary fantasy debut that brings vibrant Malaysian folklore to life.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Performance | Comedy, Music & Open Stage Variety Night
Enjoy an evening featuring a rotating lineup of comedians, storytellers, and musicians, followed by an open stage where anyone can perform. The program welcomes a wide range of acts and creative formats.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Melba Liston: A Legacy of Sound and Leadership
Trombonist Melba Liston (1926-1999) was the first woman to be regularly featured as a player, composer, and arranger in a major jazz orchestra. Her work with Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, and Quincy Jones marked a significant breakthrough in gender representation within large ensembles.
Led by bassist and musical director Allison Lee, this presentation and concert examine the obstacles Liston faced and the lasting musical legacy she created. The program features Grace Rock on trombone, Maxwell Holmes on piano, and Oscar Evely on drums, exploring the sophisticated works that paved the way for contemporary artists like Maria Schneider and Ingrid Jensen.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Performance | Open Performance Showcase
A program of non-curated shared showings of experimentation and work-in-process, for artists at all stages of their development, selected through a randomized lottery. The events are centered around a moderated discussion between the artists and audience, providing an opportunity to experiment with different feedback methods to support and inform the artists’ process.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Beethoven's Piano Works (In Person AND Online!)
Pianist and Graduate Center faculty member Nicolas Namoradze performs. All-Beethoven (1770-1827) Program: Piano Sonata in F, Op. 54 Piano Sonata in Bb, Op. 106, the "Hammerklavier," Grosse Fuge, Op. 133
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
8:00 pm
Regular: $55.60
Member: $0
Regular: $55.60
Member: $0
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Lecture | St. Patrick's Day Talk: Distiller Shares the History of the Irish Drink poitin
Distiller Maura Clare speaks about the history of the Irish drink, poitin. Irish whiskey and stout are both renowned, but perhaps the most Irish of all the drinks is poitin, a super-strength clear Irish moonshine. Originally brewed in convents and monasteries some 1500 years ago, poitin later moved to Irish farms, where copper pots (poitin means "small pot") were used to make the illegal liquor. The best poitin was grain-based. It's now legal, and known as a trendy new mixer for hipster mixologists--and also as a symbol of Irish determination and defiance. The US brand Smuggling Nun was named after the founder's cousin, Sister Mary, a Franciscan nun who smuggled poitin through customs in a bottle of holy water. Maura Clare, founder/owner of Smuggling Nun, will lead a St. Patrick's Day lecture on the colorful history of poitin. A poitin-based cocktail will be available in the bar.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
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Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Concert | Multi-Grammy Nominee and The Great American Songbook
Regular Price: $67CFT Member Price: $0.00
Concert | Spirituals, Broadway Tunes and More at a Landmark Venue
Regular Price: $65CFT Member Price: $0.00
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