free things to do in New York City
Free events for Friday, 01/23/26
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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 23, 2026?

33 free events take place on Friday, January 23 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 23 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!

33 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Friday, January 23, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
free events nyc Christopher Nolan's The Prestige (2006): Sci-Fi Psychological Thriller with All-Star Cast
free events nyc Forest Bathing - A Guided Mindful Nature Exploration
free events nyc "Consistently Invigorating" Singer-Songwriter Natalie Tenenbaum
free events nyc Friday Evening at the Famous Art Museum
free events nyc Piano Works by Beethoven, Chopin, & Scriabin (In Person AND Online!)
More Editor's Picks for 01/23/26
        

Workshop | Morning Tai Chi


Improve balance, strength and focus through gentle exercises. The sights and sounds of the river provide a serene background for the ancient flowing postures.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 am
Free

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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9:00 am
Free

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
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
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
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10:30 am
Free

Lecture | Historian Discusses Libertinism in 18th-Century Russia & Europe (In Person AND Online!)


This talk, based on a forthcoming book about three generations of the Beloselskii family, is a reflection on whether these aristocrats' sexual licentiousness could be seen as a form of libertinism. References to illicit liaisons practiced by the Russian elite, to sexual licentiousness and sexual abuse abound on the pages of eighteenth-century letters and diplomatic dispatches, diaries, and police reports. There was much that was cruel and absurd about these episodes - and occasionally comic, too. The stories of eighteenth-century debauchery were often used for othering Russia vis-a-vis Western Europe, but this was the Libertine Age across all of Europe. Igor Fedyukin is the Associate Professor of History at ShanghaiTech University in Shanghai, China. A historian of early modern Russia and a historian of education, he is the former founding Director of the Center for History of Modern Russia at HSE University (Moscow) and the author of The Enterprisers: The Politics of School in Early Modern Russia, in addition to numerous edited volumes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
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 | Firestarter (1984): Sci-Fi Thriller with Drew Barrymore


Thriller about a girl who can set fires with her mind being hunted by a maniacal researcher and a clandestine government agency. Director: Mark L. Lester Cast: David Keith, Drew Barrymore, Freddie Jones, Heather Locklear, Martin Sheen Drew Blythe Barrymore is an actress, producer, talk show host, and businesswoman. A member of the Barrymore family of actors, she has received multiple awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe Award, an Emmy Award, and a BAFTA. She was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time in 2023.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Film | The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013): Adventure Comedy-Drama with Ben Stiller


When both he and a colleague are about to lose their job, Walter takes action by embarking on an adventure more extraordinary than anything he ever imagined. Director: Ben Stiller Cast: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Shirley MacLaine, Adam Scott, Kathryn Hahn, Sean Penn Benjamin Stiller is an actor, comedian, and filmmaker. Known for his blend of slapstick humor and sharp wit, Stiller rose to fame through comedy films. Stiller is also known for his work in franchises, his films have grossed more than $2.6 billion in Canada and the United States. His awards and honors include an Emmy Award, a Directors Guild of America Award, a Britannia Award, and a Teen Choice Award.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free

Film | The Wedding Banquet (2025): Romantic Comedy


Hoping to stay in the country, a gay man proposes a green card marriage to a female friend in exchange for paying for her IVF treatment. However, things soon get complicated when his grandmother surprises them with plans for an extravagant Korean wedding banquet. Director: Andrew Ahn Cast: Bowen Yang, Lily Gladstone, Kelly Marie Tran, Han Gi-chan, Joan Chen, Youn Yuh-jung
   New York City, NY; NYC
1:00 pm
Free

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 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

Tour | Behind the Design of Iconic Movie Posters


Join a brief curator-led tour exploring the history and stories behind the exhibition. Led by curator Angelina Lippert, the complimentary 15-minute tour offers insight into the creative process and cultural impact of movie poster design.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free

Film | Christopher Nolan's The Prestige (2006): Sci-Fi Psychological Thriller with All-Star Cast


Two rival stage magicians in Victorian London feud over a perfect teleportation illusion. Director: Christopher Nolan Cast: Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall, Andy Serkis, David Bowie Christopher Nolan is a British and American filmmaker. Known for his Hollywood blockbusters with complex storytelling, Nolan is considered a leading filmmaker of the 21st century. His films have grossed more than $6 billion worldwide. The recipient of many accolades, he has been nominated for five Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, and eight Golden Globe Awards. In 2015, he was listed as one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free

Gallery Talk | Expert Insights: Marriage in Medieval Art


Examine how medieval art depicted marriage, from everyday devotion to mystical visions of divine love. Experts lead small groups through select objects, offering fresh insights, untold stories, and close-up perspectives on the symbolism and context of the works.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free

Park Walk | Forest Bathing - A Guided Mindful Nature Exploration


Reconnect with nature through a peaceful Forest Bathing experience. This guided walk invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the park with all your senses. The session includes a gentle half-mile stroll at a relaxed pace and quiet moments of reflection. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, a snack, and something to sit on.
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Piano Works by Beethoven & Robert Schumann (In Person AND Online!)


Pianist Jiahao Song performs pieces by two legendary composers. Program: Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Piano Sonata No. 32 in C Minor, Op. 111 Robert Schumann (1810-1856) Symphonic Etudes, Op. 13
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:00 pm
Free

Workshop | Play Chess


Sharpen your mind, meet new people, and enjoy this timeless game. Chess sets and timers are provided. Adults only.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Viola Works by Hindemith & More (In Person AND Online!)


Violist Jie-Ling Jennie Tang performs three pieces by Romantic and Modern-era composers. Program: Poul Ruders (1949-) Autumn Collection Paul Hindemith (1895-1963) Solo Viola Sonata, Op. 25 No. 1 Ernest Bloch (1880-1959) Suite for Viola and Piano
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free

Concert | "Consistently Invigorating" Singer-Songwriter Natalie Tenenbaum


Composer, pianist, and singer-songwriter Natalie Tenenbaum starts a special five-week residency. Each week, Tenenbaum will guide audiences on a sonic journey, traveling fluidly between classical, jazz, pop, and experimental soundscapes. Natalie Tenenbaum has premiered works worldwide, collaborated with artists including Lang Lang, Pentatonix, and David Byrne, and created arrangements for Broadway's Mean Girls. Her recent albums--Duos/Solos and Standard Repertoire Vol. 1--reimagine everything from Bach to Stravinsky through her post-classical lens. Tenenbaum's performances have been praised by The New York Times as "sparkling... consistently invigorating," and her boundary-crossing approach is sure to make each evening of this residency a thrilling opportunity to hear familiar music in a wholly new way.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:00 pm
Free

Museums | A Night of Live Music, Drinks & 5,000 Years of Art


Enjoy a stylish evening of art, live music, and engaging talks every Friday and Saturday night. From 5-9 PM, sip on drink specials, sample light fare, and take in the museum's vast collection spanning millennia. Grab a friend, a partner, or come solo--this after-hours experience offers something for everyone.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:00 pm
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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free

Open Mic | Hear New Works from Emerging Writers 


Hear works from NYU's creative writing MFA students.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Diverse Viola Works (In Person AND Online!)


Violist James M. Preucil performs pieces by composers from various musical eras, from the Classical period through today. Program: Alessandro Rolla (1757-1841) Divertimento for Viola and String Quartet in F Major, BI 330 James M. Preucil Viola Concerto in C Minor Elliott Carter (1908-2012) Figment IV for Viola Marion Bauer (1882-1955) Sonata for Viola and Piano, Op. 22 James M. Preucil Dream City for Viola Octet
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free

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.
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:30 pm
Free

Jazz | Evening of Jazzy Tunes with Musical Quintet


The Emma Lacy Quintet (Emma Lacy, saxophone, Andre Perlman, trombone, Jake Nalangan, piano, John Murray, double bass, Janae Yates, drums) performs a series of jazz pieces, including original work. Program: Emma Lacy Hugo Carla Bley (1936-2023) Lawns Emma Lacy Shame on Me Cecile McLorin Salvant (1989-) Moon Song Johnathan Blake (1976-) Blues on Stratford Road
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Book Discussion | Scholar Shares His New Book on Mimetic Theory, How Violence Works (online)


Scholar John Babak Ebrahimian explains how renowned French professor Rene Girard's mimetic theory works, exploring his particular notions of conflict, desire, and the roots of violence. How Violence Works uncovers how violence stems from our desires. It explores why we compete, envy, and sometimes escalate conflicts into war. From wanting material things such as cars or prestigious jobs to seeking power or influence, desire can often lead to violence.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Play | A Legal Drama on Journalism, Belief, and the Cost of Truth


When the value of truth is called into question, who pays the price? Inspired by true events, Retraction is a fast-moving legal drama that follows a journalist whose explosive expose ignites national attention and doubt. As inconsistencies surface, the play examines belief, responsibility, and the irreversible consequences of getting it wrong. The cast includes Renata Friedman (The Patient), Rachel Resheff (Fish in the Dark), Charlie Webb (Parade), Nathaniel Stampley (The Color Purple), Shannon Dorsey (Fairview at Woolly Mammoth), Carson McCalley (The Inheritance), Eliana Rowe (Twelfth Night at STNJ), and Bella Serrano (When Elvis...).
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required

Lecture | Author & Designer Arlen Schumer Discusses Technology and the Twilight Zone


Step into The Twilight Zone and discover why this legendary anthology series remains so powerfully relevant today. From 1959 to 1964, Rod Serling's groundbreaking program used science fiction, fantasy, and horror not merely to entertain, but to probe humanity's deepest hopes, anxieties, and ethical dilemmas. Among its most compelling themes was the role of modern technology--its dazzling promise and its darker, more unsettling consequences. These stories reflected the postwar boom in science, innovation, and space exploration, yet they also warned of technology's potential to erode empathy, distort identity, and threaten the human spirit. Author and designer Arlen Schumer--creator of Visions from The Twilight Zone and the new book The Five Themes of The Twilight Zone--examines more than a dozen classic episodes that brilliantly anticipated the technological struggles of our own century. Through vivid visuals, thoughtful commentary, and engaging analysis, Schumer reveals how the series' eerily prescient tales continue to challenge and inspire us, reminding audiences that progress and peril often travel hand in hand. Join us for an illuminating journey into The Twilight Zone.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free

Concert | Baroque Pop with Luna Li


Korean-Canadian multi-instrumentalist Luna Li cut her teeth in Toronto’s live music scene, ultimately winning over a legion of fans during the pandemic when she posted a series of soothing solo bedroom jams online. She has toured her "baroque pop" internationally, while opening for popular acts such as Japanese Breakfast and Wolf Alice. Her 2024 sophomore album, When a Thought Grows Wings, finds the artist in an expansive moment of growth, "more vulnerable, more layered, and even more intriguing." (Consequence of Sound). There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Tuesday before the event at noon.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free

Open Mic | Hear from Emerging Writers or Perform Your Own Work


Hear original work by local, emerging writers of all genres, or share some of your own pieces! All performers welcome! Hosted by novelist Ed Lin. Sign ups start from 7:30PM. 5-minute time slots.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free

Classical Music | Piano Works by Beethoven, Chopin, & Scriabin (In Person AND Online!)


Pianist Sunny Zhang performs a series of pieces by legendary composers. Program: Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Piano Sonata No. 30 in E Major, Op. 109 Frederic Chopin (1810-1849) Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-flat Minor, Op. 35 Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915) Fantasy in B Minor, Op. 28
   New York City, NY; NYC
8:00 pm
Free
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Classical Music | Choral Works by Mendelssohn and More at a Landmark Venue

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Other | Uplifting Interactive Experience

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