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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 May 15, 2026?
38 free events take place on Friday, May 15 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 May 15 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 May . 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.
Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on May 15, 2026?
38 free events take place on Friday, May 15 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 May 15 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 May . 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!
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!
38 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Friday, May 15, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Outdoor Tai Chi
Improve balance, strength, and focus through gentle exercises. The sights and sounds of the harbor provide a serene background for the ancient flowing postures.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:30 am
Free
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
Free
Workshop | Zumba Workout for All
Enthusiastic instruction and easy-to-follow Latin dance choreography working on balance, coordination, and range of motion.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Asian Art and Culture Museum
The museum features a diverse collection of artworks, including traditional and contemporary pieces from various Asian cultures. They typically have guided tours at 2 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Mat Pilates Session (Beginners Welcome!)
Sweet Water Dance & Yoga leads a session of mat pilates, a strengthening and lengthening exercise that focuses on conditioning your core muscles while also training your arms and legs. This class incorporates key Pilates principles such as postural alignment, breathing, strength, controlled movement, and flexibility. This class is perfect for beginners but intermediate and advanced movers will also benefit. Bring your own mat.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome
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.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
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
Concert | Piano in the Park: Ragtime & Tin Pan Alley Tunes
Come on down and swing along to the best ragtime and Tin Pan Alley music the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Todd Robbins. “Todd Robbins plays like a house on fire!" - New York Post Todd Robbins is a New York City-based performer who plays ragtime and classic Tin Pan Alley, and is renowned for his work in Coney Island, off-Broadway, and as an author of several books. Whether a sideshow, magic, circus, jazz, or burlesque act, Todd is a master of popular entertainment and can be seen on YouTube, heard playing piano with Woody Allen's jazz band (he has recorded two albums with that group).
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | American Pastoral (2016): Crime-Drama with Ewan McGregor
In 1960s New Jersey, a Jewish-American businessman finds his seemingly perfect life unraveling after his teenage daughter commits a heinous act of political terrorism in protest of the Vietnam War. Director: Ewan McGregor Cast: Ewan McGregor, Jennifer Connelly, Dakota Fanning, Peter Riegert, Rupert Evans, Uzo Aduba, Molly Parker, David Strathairn Ewan McGregor is a Scottish actor and filmmaker. His accolades include a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. In 2013, he was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his service to drama and charity.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Network (1976): Satricial Black Comedy Drama with Faye Dunaway
A television network cynically exploits a deranged former anchor's ravings and revelations about mass media for its own profit, but finds that his message may be difficult to control. Director: Sidney Lumet Cast: Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Peter Finch, Robert Duvall Faye Dunaway is an American actress who has received many accolades, including an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, three Golden Globe Awards, and a BAFTA Award. Short film discussion to follow.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
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
Free
Film | It Was Just an Accident (2025): Iranian/French Political Thriller
In Iran, a man bumps into the man he believes to be his former torturer. However, faced with this person who fiercely denies having been his tormentor, doubt sets in. Director: Jafar Panahi Cast: Vahid Mobasseri, Mariam Afshari, Ebrahim Azizi, Hadis Pakbaten, Majid Panahi This film will be shown in its original language with English subtitles.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
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
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2:00 pm
Free
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
Free
Discussion | Rewriting Pop Icons: Art, Subculture, and the Legacy of Martin Wong
A dynamic conversation featuring artists and curators examining the enduring influence of Martin Wong’s Popeye series. Bridging comic imagery, tattoo culture, and art-historical references, the discussion unpacks how Wong blurred the lines between “low” and “high” culture.
Set against the creative energy of downtown New York in the late 20th century, the panel reflects on how Wong’s work continues to resonate across contemporary artistic and curatorial practices.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
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
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5:00 pm
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Birdwatching | Evening Birding Tour
Discover the surprising diversity of birds that call the park home during migratory season, with guided tours led by environmental educator and urban naturalist Gabriel Willow. The park is a hotspot for avian visitors and birders alike. Past sightings include warblers, tanagers, vireos, thrushes, and even a Chuck-will's-widow!
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
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
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
Free
Party | Play New Games like Blood on the Clocktower (BOTC)
Curious about a board game or looking to try something new? The Games Hosts will be teaching how to play a wide range of fun board games. Many come to play the social deduction game, Blood on the Clocktower (BOTC).
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Reading | Readings & Conversation on Design, Culture, & Society (+ Magazine Launch)
A major New York City art school's MA Design Research, Writing, and Criticism (D-Crit) hosts rapid-fire thesis presentations, sharp dispatches, and the launch of 2NDFL Issue Two--celebrating the D-Crit class of 2026. The program will feature short readings and conversation exploring the shifting contours of design, culture, and society, followed by a reception and publication launch in the lobby. Featured thesis presentations include:
Mo Alabi
Tash Nikol Smith
Vlad Ilkevich
Deborah Doering
July Winters
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
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
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn about, Talk about, and Create Your Own Postcards
Postcard enthusiasts, also known as deltiologists, are welcome to this program! Writing and communicating with postcards is a longstanding tradition, still embraced by many today. Attend to write postcards inspired by suggested prompts, to swap postcards, and to discuss all topics postcard-related. There will be some limited supplies available but you may also bring your own to embellish a 4x6 card to write on. Postage stamps will not be provided at this program.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Boundary-Pushing Broadway Musician Takes the Stage
Hear the music of Daniel Rudin, a boundary-pushing producer, composer, arranger, and music director, whose work connects people to a sense of wonder. He is the founder and executive producer of the genre-bending, community-bridging band Third Reprise, whose wildly creative covers of show tunes have reached millions online, and led to collaborations with talent such as Darren Criss, Andrew Barth Feldman, Sarah Hyland, Dirty Loops, and many others. As an arranger, producer, and orchestrator, Daniel has collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Pasek & Paul, Donald Lawrence, Mark Sonnenblick, Ilana Glazer, Jordan E. Cooper, and Andrew Lippa, and has worked as a pianist everywhere from Broadway as principal keyboardist/conductor at MJ: The Musical and The Great Gatsby, to The Tonight Show with the KPop megastar Jin from BTS, to Billy Joel’s latest music video.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Dancing | Limon Dance Company Teaches Rhythm, Balance, & Recovery (+ Live Music)
The world-renowned Limon Company Dancers teach the energetic and ease-filled Limon Technique, accompanied by live music. Limon Technique is used in contemporary dance, focusing on the rhythms of falling and recovering balance and the importance of good breathing to maintaining flow in a dance.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Piano Works by Bach, Beethoven, and Ravel
Lisa Joy Sitjar performs a program of piano works by Bach, Beethoven, and Ravel, highlighting a range of styles from Baroque clarity to Romantic depth and Impressionist color.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | The Grim Game (1919): Silent Drama Film with Harry Houdini (+ Discussion)
In recognition of Harry Housini's amazing life and the library's current exhibition, Mystery & Wonder: a Legacy of Golden Age Magicians in New York, this event is a screening of his 1919 silent film, The Grim Game, with live piano accompaniment by Makia Matsumura. Houdini plays an intrepid young journalist framed for murder after falling in love with a winsome ingenue played by Ann Forrest. Chases, dramatic escapes, and a real mid-air plane crash are only part of the fun. Director: Irvin Willat Cast: Harry Houdini, Ann Forrest, Augustus Phillips, Tully Marshall, Arthur Hoyt Following the screening, Dorothy Dietrich, magician and co-founder of the Houdini Museum, and magician and historian Richard Cohn will discuss the making of the film, its re-discovery and restoration, and Houdini's legacy today.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
6:30 pm
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Concert | DJ Cory Giles Takes the Stage
Brooklyn native Cory Giles is behind the decks, bringing with him ten years of deep experience in the music industry. From Def Jam Recordings to Hot 97, Giles has been involved in music programming and development across all music platforms. Giles has worked with brands such as Louis Vuitton, The Mohegan Sun, The W, Tidal, NCAA, and the WNBA. He has played sets for celebrities such as John Legend, Luke Combs, and Jack Harlow, to name a few. In October ‘22, Cory became a member of The World Famous Shadyville DJs crew.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Fashion Historians & Curators Discuss Their New Book, Chanel in Vogue
Susanna Brown and Rebecca C. Tuite, authors of Chanel in Vogue, lead an in-depth look at the era of Gabrielle Chanel, her successors, Karl Lagerfeld and Virginie Viard, and the world-famous fashion illustrators and photographers, from Edward Steichen, and Helmut Newton, to Ellen von Unwerth, and many more. Susanna Brown is a writer and curator specializing in photography, fashion and portraiture. She has held curatorial positions at London's V&A and National Portrait Gallery, and is the author and editor of numerous acclaimed books. Rebecca C. Tuite is a fashion historian and writer. She is the author of 1950s in Vogue: The Jessica Daves Years 1952-1962. Books will be available for purchase. Chanel Style is highly encouraged!
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Reimagining Latin Jazz With Two Influential Musical Groups
Experience a groundbreaking concert that reimagines the Latin jazz tradition with unprecedented orchestrations of Chico O'Farrill and new works by Arturo O'Farrill. Merging the rhythm section with string textures, the performance signals the beginning of a multi-year collaboration centered on cultural innovation.
Presented in partnership with Carnegie Hall, this event underscores a shared dedication to community-focused programming and artistic expression across the Americas.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Sunset Singing Circle
Singer/songwriter Terre Roche leads this singing program with the beautiful backdrop of the setting sun over the Hudson. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned crooner, the singing circle is perfect for mellow melodies and healthy harmonizing.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
7:30 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Concert | Hypnotic Trio Plays Art-Pop Compositions with Improvisations
Brooklyn-based group Tilt offers intricate, viscerally affecting art-pop compositions that blend carefully interwoven motifs with improvisation. Composed of vocalist Isabel Crespo Pardo, vocalist/bassist Carmen Quill, and trombonist/vocalist Kalia Vandever, their melodies are chiseled at extremes, vacillating between the angular and the achingly lyrical. All three members are accomplished artists and composers, each from strong backgrounds in the jazz world. Their stunning debut LP, something we once knew, is in its own class, stylistically distinct from each player's solo work. Don't miss this symbiotic and hypnotic trio! 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.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
7:30 pm
Regular: $40
Member: $0
Regular: $40
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Galleries | Upon a Machine: Indonesian Art Collective's Immersive Exhibition on Hyperreality & AI Performance
Discover a newly commissioned project by Tromarama, an Indonesian art collective known for their investigations into hyperreality and the porous boundaries between virtual and physical worlds, through a robust live performance that activates the installation. Tromarama creates immersive, multimedia environments that merge video, installation, and algorithmic processes. Marking the collective’s first institutional exhibition in the United States, this project extends Tromarama's ongoing inquiry into the blurred lines between labor and leisure through the use of artificial intelligence. Departing from earlier works that mined social media data, Tromarama will develop a new work using context conditioning to an AI model, using their personal literary and music archives. This more intimate dataset becomes a lens through which the artists examine how personal and social histories are reinterpreted and remixed by generative technologies.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
8:00 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
Regular: $22
Member: $0
Regular: $22
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Join the Club!
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