free things to do in New York City
Free events for Sunday, 07/05/26
<

July 2026

>
Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa
   1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
262728293031 
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 July 5, 2026?

37 free events take place on Sunday, July 5 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 July 5 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 July . 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.
Join the Club!
Go!
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!

37 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Sunday, July 5, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.

Editor's Picks

free events nyc Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial
free events nyc Walking the Flatiron District
free events nyc Contemporary Dance Embodying the Power of Rituals in a Major Venue
free events nyc Trumpet Tunes Honoring the Legacy of Louis Armstrong
free events nyc Skakespeare's Othello: Tragedy of Betrayal
More Editor's Picks for 07/05/26
        

Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park


Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
8:00 am
Free

Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Wimbledon Tennis


Today's Schedule: 9:00am - 3:00pm Wimbledon 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm Wimbledon 2026 *Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
   New York City, NY; NYC
9:00 am
Free

Tour | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial


This complimentary shuttle loops through more than 30 locations across Lower Manhattan, covering major sites from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Financial District and the World Trade Center area. Busses arrive about every 15 minutes throughout the day. Riders can board or exit at any marked stop, with unlimited trips at no cost. Dayly service.
   New York City, NY; NYC
10:00 am
Free

Festival | USA 250 Celebration with Activities for All Ages (Music, Exhibitions, Art, & More)


A day of drop-in activities for library lovers of all ages as the venue marks 250 years since the founding of the United States. To mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the venue is proud to display a fair copy, in Thomas Jefferson's hand, of the Declaration of Independence. This celebration features music from a special guest DJ and will dive into the library's collections for crafts and activities celebrating this remarkable document and the many extraordinary items preserved by the library. Activities for all ages will include: Scavenger hunts exploring an all-new major exhibition, Declaring America: 1776 and Beyond Button-making inspired by historical political buttons Coloring and blackout poetry drawn from our digital collections and databases "Handwriting the Declaration" social art project
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
10:00 am
Free

Staged Reading | Birch Academy: Original Musical


At an elite school shaped by privilege and perception, a new student challenges the system from within—forcing those in power to confront what belonging and justice really mean. Written by Miguel Sutedjo & Andrea Trent. Directed by Alyssa Bernstein. Cast: Josh Rodriguez, Jake Faragalli, Susaye Lawson, Scott Semanski, Dylan Balsamo
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
10:30 am
Free

Staged Reading | The Infernal Machine: Original Musical


In a satirical world of fear and propaganda, a young inventor must stop his own creation from being used to target the innocent—and find the courage to stand up for what’s right. Book, music, and lyrics by Larry Daggett. Director: Amy Griffin Cast: Christian Cieri, Brenna Peerbolt, Paul Fraccalvieri, Larry Toyter, Tori Baroni, Xavier Cornell
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
10:30 am
Free

Staged Reading | Trial by Jury Duty: Original Musical Comedy


A rule-obsessed juror takes his civic duty a little too seriously—until a movie spoiler, a courtroom mishap, and a twist-filled night send everything hilariously off the rails. Book, music, and lyrics by Kit Goldstein Grant. Directed by Alexa Powell. Cast: Matthew Marc Baum, David Bell, Marisa Budnick, Emily Esposito, Katie Gilhooey, Max Ruscio, Celina Mylene Santana
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
10:30 am
Free

Workshop | Tai Chi in the Garden


Start your Sunday with a peaceful Tai Chi session, led by Tai Chi Solution. This gentle movement practice promotes balance, focus, and relaxation in a calm garden setting. All levels welcome.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
10:30 am
pay-what-you-wish, $15 suggested...

Museums | Contemporary Art, Open Doors: First Sundays at NYC's Leading Museum


This monthly program offers an accessible opportunity to explore groundbreaking exhibitions featuring emerging and established artists from around the globe. Explore the galleries with fun activities, make art, and gather for story times with special guests. Engage with current artistic dialogues and help expand the definition of art.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required

Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities


Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
11:00 am
Free

Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions


The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection of 10,000 items. One of the exhibitions includes famous Tiffany's leaded glass objects and a valuable insight into the development of the inuctry in the US at the turn of the 20th century.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required

City Walk | Walking the Flatiron District


Take a stroll through the beautiful and iconic Flatiron District. The neighborhood is home to some of the city's most notable landmarks, such as the New York Life Building, the MetLife Clocktower, and the Flatiron Building. Expect to learn all about this district and its historical tidbits as you enjoy beautiful sights.
   New York City, NY; NYC
11:00 am
Free

Museums | Sunday at a Unique Art Museum


Candid, genuine, and unexpected, this is New York City's only museum dedicated to folk & self-taught artists. The Museum celebrates the creativity of individuals whose singular talents have been refined largely through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. The museum's collection includes more than seven thousand works of art from four centuries and nearly every continent--from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works by living artists in a variety of mediums. From critically acclaimed exhibitions and publications to inspiring educational programs and robust community outreach, the museum's mission is to be the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
11:30 am
Free

Workshop | An Afternoon of Community Rowing in New York Harbor


At this community 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
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
12:00 pm
Free

Tour | On-Board Exploration of Tall Ships from Different Countries


Guests experience the majesty of tall ships up close with tours of tall ships from around the world. A fleet of majestic tall ships from more than 20 nations, symbols of tradition, adventure, and international goodwill, will fill the harbor in a maritime celebration.  Separate reservations are required for each pier. Pier 1 Sagres (Portugal) Sundarshini (India) Pier 5 Mircea (Romania)
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
12:00 pm
Free

Park Walk | Women's Walk in the Park


This group brings together women from all walks of life to bond, exercise, and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Hundreds of women of all different ages and backgrounds meet to simply go for a walk in Central Park. About 80% of the women show up alone, so feel free to give it a try! Walk locations sometimes change, so make sure to check the group's Instagram page @citygirlswhowalk stories the day before and on Sunday to confirm the meet/walk spot. You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
Free

Staged Reading | Coming Out: Original Coming-of-Age Drama


A group of teens navigate love, identity, and self-discovery as their relationships intertwine—finding the courage to be seen, to be honest, and to live authentically. Book, Music, Lyrics: Allison St. Rock Cast: Eva Reich, Helora Danna, Amanda Briskin-Wallace, Maggie McAuliffe, Rhys Avery, Erech Holder-Hetmeyer, James Canal, Morgan Cavendish
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
1:30 pm
Free

Workshop | Play the Fun Summer Game of "Catchball"


Kick off your afternoon with CATCHBALL: an entirely made-up, participatory, all-ages, abjectly amateur, viciously competitive wiffleball→kickball game. Yes, CATCHBALL playfully engages themes of American identity, belonging, and competition, but honestly it’s just a fun summer game. It’s The Nutten Island Batteries versus The Emancipation Day Revivalists and anyone can play! Play-by-play, color commentary, and umpiring will be provided by downtown luminaries, anchored by Theresa Buchheister. The game will feature transitional tunes from The Vintage DJ (Jonathan E. Jacobs). Picnickers welcome along the 1st and 3rd base lines — BYOBlanket.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
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
Join the Club!
Go!
2:00 pm
Free

Dance Performance | Contemporary Dance Embodying the Power of Rituals in a Major Venue


Akram Khan Company presents the U.S. premiere of Thikra: Night of Remembering. Thikra, meaning 'memory' or 'recollection' in Arabic, is deeply rooted in the power of rituals. With arresting visual design by Manal AlDowayan and Khan's signature choreographic style--weaving the Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam with contemporary--past and present converge in a journey to connect with ancestral knowledge. Imagined as an annual gathering, a tribe of women come together for one night only to awaken the spirits of those who came before them. Through ceremony and shared remembrance, they transcend time, uniting past and present in a profound act of renewal.
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish, tickets required

Concert | Early Chamber Works (with Coffee Pairings)


The Glass Clouds Ensemble & Climate Imaginarium host an event with a pairing of Devocion coffee with "ground basses," popular tunes from the Renaissance and Baroque periods!
   New York City, NY; NYC
2:00 pm
Free

Tour | Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century


This historic site honors the early life of a renowned American figure. The restored brownstone reflects late 19th-century architecture and offers insights into the family's daily life. Learn about various exhibits and artifacts that showcase the cultural and historical context of the era, providing a glimpse into the formative years of this visionary leader-to-be. This guided tour is first-come, first-served. It may reach capacity before your desired tour time, so please be sure to arrive early. Tour duration: 45 minutes. This tour takes place at 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
2:00 pm
Free

Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists


Berta Indeed presents a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. Seating is limited, unreserved, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
2:00 pm
Free

Party | Roller Dance Social In a Park with Live DJ


Get ready to roll into the excitement at an outdoor skate circle. With live DJs spinning the tunes, is as much fun to watch as it is to join! Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, bring your own skates and get ready to groove with roller dancing. All skill levels are welcome. This is a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all ages. Children under 14 must wear helmets for safety.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
2:45 pm
Free

Dance Performance | "Jazz's Premier Tap Dancer" Takes the Stage


Celebrated dancer, musician, improviser, choreographer, and educator Michela Marino Lerman performs alongside special guests she has personally curated. This evening centers live music, tap dance as a musical form, and culturally rooted improvisation, with an emphasis on community, legacy, and New York-based artistry. Recognized by DownBeat as "jazz's premier tap dancer" and described by The New York Times as "an outstanding jazz musician," Lerman is known for her dynamic, deeply musical approach to tap--positioning the form not only as dance, but as a vital language of jazz. Mentored by tap legends including Gregory Hines, Buster Brown, Leroy Myers, and Mable Lee, Lerman brings to the stage an artistic vision grounded in tradition and propelled by innovation. Across the residency, she will perform in dialogue with her guests, with each event highlighting a distinct theme while reflecting Lerman's lifelong commitment to rhythm, collaboration, and the ever-evolving spirit of tap.
   New York City, NY; NYC
3:00 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
Join the Club!
Go!
4:00 pm
Free

Museums | Premier Collections of Modern and Contemporary Art 


Discover a vast collection of art from a diverse range of countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Russia, France, Spain, Japan, India, United States and more. Tickets for Pay-What-You-Wish hours are available online only and released at 10 am the morning of the event.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
4:00 pm
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...

Staged Reading | The Student Body: Original Dark Comedy


A sharp, darkly funny look at teen mental health, exploring the pressures of identity, image, and disconnection—and the systems that struggle to understand or support them. Writer: Aaron Levy Director: Megan Cramer Cast: Aaron Levy, Megan Cramer, Jack Tomlinson, KP Powell, Adena Brumer, Michael Krebs, Katerina Eichenberger, Heather Welsh, Emma Froelich.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
4:30 pm
Free

Concert | Live Music Series Featuring Emerging Artists


Unwind with live music in a peaceful garden setting  This rotating series features intimate performances by emerging artists across various genres.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
5:00 pm
Free

Museums | Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution


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
Join the Club!
Go!
5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...

Dance Performance | "Jazz's Premier Tap Dancer" Takes the Stage


Celebrated dancer, musician, improviser, choreographer, and educator Michela Marino Lerman performs alongside special guests she has personally curated. This evening centers live music, tap dance as a musical form, and culturally rooted improvisation, with an emphasis on community, legacy, and New York-based artistry. Recognized by DownBeat as "jazz's premier tap dancer" and described by The New York Times as "an outstanding jazz musician," Lerman is known for her dynamic, deeply musical approach to tap--positioning the form not only as dance, but as a vital language of jazz. Mentored by tap legends including Gregory Hines, Buster Brown, Leroy Myers, and Mable Lee, Lerman brings to the stage an artistic vision grounded in tradition and propelled by innovation. Across the residency, she will perform in dialogue with her guests, with each event highlighting a distinct theme while reflecting Lerman's lifelong commitment to rhythm, collaboration, and the ever-evolving spirit of tap.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Play | Shakespeare's Julius Caesar Live in the Park


The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare, directed by Stephen Burdman, is presented outdoors in a free, open-air production. The play examines the fragile balance between loyalty and ambition as a group of senators conspires to prevent a feared tyranny, only to unleash unrest and instability. As alliances fracture and public tensions rise, Shakespeare's exploration of power, persuasion, and responsibility unfolds with striking contemporary relevance. Note: The audience moves and follows the actors 5-6 times during the performance.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
6:00 pm
Free

Jazz | Trumpet Tunes Honoring the Legacy of Louis Armstrong


Led by trombonist Sam Chess, this evening celebrates the life and work of the iconic Louis Armstrong, whose music laid the foundation for jazz, modern music, and American culture. For Wynton Marsalis, Louis Armstrong is the foundational "transcendent genius" of jazz, representing the pinnacle of musical artistry, soulfulness, and humanity. 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 for all.
   New York City, NY; NYC
6:00 pm
Free

Play | Shakespeare's Hamlet: Landmark Tragedy in the Park


Though Hamlet claims that he is “mad in craft,” there’s inevitably going to be a little overlap. Three actors tackle Hamlet’s desperate struggle to ‘hold it all together’ in this imaginative, visceral, and immediate production of Shakespeare’s classic. Written by William Shakespeare. Directed by Nicholas Martin-Smith. Cushions will be provided to sit on the stairs of the monument. There is very limited room if you bring your own chair. Please arrive no later than 6:20pm. There will be no late seating.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
6:30 pm
Free

Jazz | Vibrant Music on the Hudson: Elvis Costello & Taylor Swift Collaborator Performs Energetic & Improvisational Jazz


Live music accompanied by spectacular sunsets over the Hudson River. Wayne Tucker and the Bad Mothas perform energetic, improvisational jazz. Wayne Tucker is a trumpeter, composer, arranger, violinist, vocalist, actor, and model who has released 5 albums under his name and performs regularly with his band, The Bad Mothas. Wayne has toured and recorded with a diverse array of notables such as jazz musicians Kurt Elling, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Cyrille Aimee; pop acts Taylor Swift, David Crosby, Elvis Costello; R&B singers Ne-Yo and Gabriel Garzon-Montano; hip hop artists Jidenna and Ryan Leslie; and more. This diversity is represented in The Bad Mothas' energetic sound, where the American Songbook gets a welcome update, including selections by Michael Jackson or Earth Wind & Fire. Tenor saxophonist Miles Tucker holds a lean, mean counterpoint to Wayne's gentle affability on trumpet. Drummer Diego Joaquin Ramirez and bassist Tamir Shmerling provide solid underpinning, which accommodates a varied cast of pianists, most notably the gospel-influenced Willerm Delisfort. The group was featured in the New York Times for its steady schedule of street performances during the 2020 shutdown, representing New York City's infamous grit.
   New York City, NY; NYC
7:00 pm
Free

Concert | Live Acoustic Evening


Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Adam Cordero.
   New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
Go!
8:00 pm
Free

Play | Skakespeare's Othello: Tragedy of Betrayal


Shakespeare's searing tragedy of love, jealousy, power, and betrayal. Set in Venice and Cyprus, Othello follows the Moorish military commander Othello as he is manipulated by his ensign, Iago, into suspecting his wife Desdemona of infidelity. Written by William Shakespeare. Directed by Carl Cofield.
   New York City, NY; NYC
8:30 pm
Free
Join the Club!
Go!
Complimentary Tickets

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

Concert | Soul, R&B Powerhouse Vocalist at a Major Venue

Regular Price: $50
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Concert | Oscar and Grammy Nominee at One of the World's Most Famous Venues

Regular Price: $45
CFT Member Price: $0.00