free things to do in New York City
Free events for Monday, 01/12/26
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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 January 12, 2026?

21 free events take place on Monday, January 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 January 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 January . 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!

21 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Monday, January 12, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Historical and Modern Design Spanning Centuries
free events nyc Ice Skate with Olympian Gracie Gold
free events nyc Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History
free events nyc NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch Discusses Public Safety in NYC
More Editor's Picks for 01/12/26
        

Workshop | Start the Day with Morning Meditation


Start your day by balancing your mind, body, and spirit during instructor guided meditation. This renowned practice lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and strengthens the immune system.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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9:45 am
Free

Workshop | Lunchtime Meditation (in-person and online)


The sessions are non-denominational and will focus on the basics: meditation to quiet the mind, to focus the quiet mind, using the focused mind for analysis, and using the focused mind to create and uphold a positive vision of and outlook on the world. Other more specific uses of meditation may be discussed however the class is meant for all, beginners and those with a regular practice.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:15 pm
$7

Film | Joy (2015): Biographical Comedy-Drama with Jennifer Lawrence & Robert DeNiro


Joy is the story of the title character, who rose to become founder and matriarch of a powerful family business dynasty. Director: David O. Russell Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Édgar Ramírez, Diane Ladd, Virginia Madsen Jennifer Lawrence is an American actress. She is known for starring in both action film franchises and independent dramas, and her films have grossed over $6 billion worldwide. The world's highest-paid actress in 2015 and 2016, she appeared in Time's 100 most influential people in the world list in 2013 and the Forbes Celebrity 100 list from 2013 to 2016. Robert DeNiro is an American actor who's known for collaborating with Scorsese. He's considered to be one of the most influential actors of his generation. De Niro has accrued many achievements, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe, and more. In 2009, De Niro received the Kennedy Center Honor. He was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Barack Obama in 2016. Short film discussion to follow.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Museums | Historical and Modern Design Spanning Centuries


The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...

Workshop | Zumba: Latin-Inspired Dance Fitness


Get your heart pumping with Zumba, a dynamic workout set to Latin, international, and popular music. This fun, easy-to-follow class combines fast and slow rhythms for aerobic interval training that challenges both heart and muscles. Perfect for all fitness levels.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:15 pm
Free

Party | Ice Skate with Olympian Gracie Gold


Two-time U.S. National Champion and 2014 Olympic Bronze Medalist Gracie Gold visits the park before she heads off to Milan as a commentator for the Olympics Channel. Skate with Gracie on the rink, take a photo, and help celebrate Team USA.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:20 pm
Free

Museums | Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History


Reconnect with the feeling of community and cohesion that blanketed our city and nation in the wake of 9/11. This is a monument to human dignity, courage, and sacrifice, this museum honors the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993, recognizes the courage of those who survived, and salutes those who risked their lives to help others.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:30 pm
Free

Film | Back Street (1961): Classic Drama Film Starring Susan Hayward


The story of a woman who had to shut her eyes to shame... when she opened her heart to love! A secret affair maintains its passion through the years. Director: David Miller Cast: Susan Hayward, John Gavin, Vera Miles Susan Hayward was a film actress who became a popular star during the 1940s and '50s known for playing courageous women fighting to overcome adversity. She was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress five times, winning it once.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Learn & Practice Chess with an Expert


Learn to play chess or develop your strategies with chess expert Tamar Chanadiri from the Marshall Chess Club. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, as each one builds on the previous. Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels and ages are welcome! Chess sets are provided but you're welcome to bring your own. From 6-7 PM Tamar will provide instruction for beginner-level players. From 7-8 PM there will be open play for all levels.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Low Impact Bodyweight Circuit Training


Build strength and endurance with this full-body circuit workout using only your bodyweight. This low-impact class combines resistance and conditioning exercises for an effective, easy-on-the-joints session. Perfect for all fitness levels. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Move, Groove, and Sweat to 2000s Classics


Get moving in this high-energy dance fitness class that combines cardio, choreography, and fun. Groove to 2000s R&B, reggaeton, and pop hits while building strength and confidence. No dance experience is required. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Discussion | NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch Discusses Public Safety in NYC


New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch presents a timely and important conversation with former congresswoman, the Eleanor Roosevelt Distinguished Leader in Residence at Roosevelt House, Carolyn B. Maloney. Experience this special event as Commissioner Tisch discusses her work to improve public safety in New York--and the path forward to creating a better, safer city for all New Yorkers.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Master Class | Play Traditional Scottish Dance Tunes


This is a workshop/jam to introduce musicians to traditional Scottish dance tunes. You will learn some tunes traditionally played for Scottish dances as well as some airs. If you don’t know a reel from a strathspey or jig or waltz, you will, by the end of the workshop! Listeners are also welcome. For adults 18+ | Musicians advanced beginner and up
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Discussion | The Art and Craft of the Picture Book


Examination of history and evolving traditions of the picture book, exploring how images and words work together to create stories that resonate across generations. Though often associated with childhood, picture books remain powerful literary, visual, and cultural forms for readers of all ages, bridging memory, imagination, and shared experience. With Sergio Ruzzier and Sophie Blackall
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Zumba Gold Workout


Zumba Gold offers a low-impact workout set to a fusion of Latin, International and popular music dance themes, creating a dynamic, exciting, effective fitness system! The routines feature aerobic fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that challenge both the heart and muscles. With fun music and easy-to-follow steps, you can’t go wrong. Instructor: Melissa Perez
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Original Monologues with Local Writers


This evening of monologues brings several talented writers to the microphone to read/act out/emote their true tales about a pivotal moment in life. The monologue is an amalgam of the written word and performance, and the form has become an increasingly popular literary/theatrical phenomenon. Expect to hear true stories that are funny, engaging, poignant, memorable, and relatable. When spoken aloud, a writer’s first-person story becomes something else—a monologue that is enacted for an audience. The emphasis for this event is on the quality of the written piece—but told to the audience in a compelling way.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free

Workshop | Write with a Group


This event is a writing program for writers of all levels looking to find or keep the momentum to finish their story. Each month, the instructors offer instruction on a different area of writing craft as well as prompts and time to write! Bring a pen, a laptop, or just your ideas! This session will be focused on creating characters. The group will be discussing characterization, description, and complete exercises to help writers develop compelling characters for their stories. Time will be set aside for free writing. Organizers welcome writers of all backgrounds and skill-levels to join us for this event.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free

Dance Performance | Dance Works-in-Progress


A high visibility low-tech forum for experimentation, emerging ideas, and works-in-progress held in the Fall and Spring seasons. Artists are selected by a rotating committee of peer artists.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Orchestral New Works by American composers


The North/South Chamber Orchestra, directed by Max Lifchitz, performs new works by American composers Munir Beken, Harry Bulow, Andrea Clearfield, and Max Lifchitz.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Retro Music Dance Fitness


Come dance to classic pop tunes: Top 40, Disco, Electronic and more! This class is 45 minutes of peppy beats to enhance your cardio conditioning. A low-impact and fun workout; it is open to any fitness level. Let's dance away blue Monday! Instructor: Patricia Collins
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Contemporary Pieces on Resurrection (In Person AND Online!)


Enjoy two new pieces by emerging composers from the Manhattan School of Music, both themed around "Resurrection." Program: Zeke Morgan KOL Jonathan Gold Vir Heroicus Sublimis
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Classical Music | Choral Works by Mendelssohn and More at a Landmark Venue

Regular Price: $50
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Other | Uplifting Interactive Experience

Regular Price: $84
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Musical | Broadway Actors in a Musical

Regular Price: $45
CFT Member Price: $0.00