free things to do in New York City
Free events for Sunday, 09/20/26
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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 September 20, 2026?

31 free events take place on Sunday, September 20 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 September 20 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 September . 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!

31 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Sunday, September 20, 2026

All events are free unless otherwise noted.
        

Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park


Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health ... more >> 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
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8:00 am
free, no reservation required
Workshops, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Tai Chi in the Park

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 ... more >> 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
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
Tours, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial

Workshop | Kayaking on the Hudson


A welcoming public kayaking experience and see New York City from the water. Guests will receive basic ... more >> paddling and safety instruction, be fitted with safety gear, and paddle in a protected area with trained volunteers nearby. No experience is needed, and children are welcome with a parent or guardian. Guests must know how to swim. First-come, first-served, sign-up line often closes early due to high demand.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
free, no reservation required
Workshops, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Kayaking on the Hudson

Museums | Sunday at Pop Culture/Art Museum


Through temporary exhibitions, a growing permanent collection, and educational events, this museum explores ... more >> the enormous impact of posters on society and culture, and how they have been adapted to contemporary use. As the first poster museum in the United States, it provides a space for inquiry for all those interested in design, advertising, and public interventions, with the aim of improving 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, no reservation required
Museumss, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Sunday at Pop Culture/Art Museum

Workshop | Tai Chi in the Garden


Start your Sunday with a peaceful Tai Chi session, led by Tai Chi Solution. This gentle movement practice ... more >> promotes balance, focus, and relaxation in a calm garden setting. All levels welcome.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
pay-what-you-wish, $15 suggested...
Workshops, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Tai Chi in the Garden

Tour | Explore One of NYC's Most Unique Public Spaces: A Look at History, Design, & Environment


A historical walking tour of the area's highlights. Look into the past of this unique area of NYC and ... more >> learn about its excit-ing trans-for-ma-tion and future. In this walk-ing tours led by official guides, you'll exam-ine how his-toric preser-va-tion, inno-v-a-tive design, and envi-ron-men-tal stew-ard-ship make the area what it is today.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:45 am
free, RSVP required
Tours, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Explore One of NYC's Most Unique Public Spaces: A Look at History, Design, & Environment

Tour | Explore One of NYC's Most Unique Public Spaces: A Look at History, Design, & Environment


A historical walking tour of the area's highlights. Look into the past of this unique area of NYC and ... more >> learn about its excit-ing trans-for-ma-tion and future. In this walk-ing tours led by official guides, you'll exam-ine how his-toric preser-va-tion, inno-v-a-tive design, and envi-ron-men-tal stew-ard-ship make the area what it is today.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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10:45 am
free, RSVP required
Tours, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Explore One of NYC's Most Unique Public Spaces: A Look at History, Design, & Environment

Festival | Day of Performing & Visual Arts Kicking Off Climate Week NYC


This festival brings artists of all mediums together to creatively reflect on climate change and the ... more >> environment while envisioning future paths forward. A day full of eco-inspired performances, visual art, and participatory activities.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
free, tickets required
Festivals, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Day of Performing & Visual Arts Kicking Off Climate Week NYC

Museums | Explore the Human Body as a Musical Instrument at a Landmark Museum


Multidisciplinary artists, musicians, and experts who contributed to the exhibition celebrate Musical ... more >> Bodies. From clapping hands and tapping feet to beatboxing and whistling, the human body is a musical instrument. Musical Bodies examines how musical instruments, in turn, often draw their form and decoration from human bodies, emerging as powerful vehicles that represent voices, actions, and identity. Take a deep dive into the exhibition's themes with dynamic presentations, conversations, and performances that explore the relationship between musical instruments and the body.
   New York City, NY; NYC
11:00 am
free with museum...
Museumss, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Explore the Human Body as a Musical Instrument at a Landmark Museum

Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities


Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. ... more >> Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together. 
   New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
free, reservation required...
Museumss, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities

Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions


The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection ... more >> 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
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11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Museumss, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions

Workshop | An Afternoon of Rowing in New York Harbor


At this rowing session, after a brief orientation, participants will be assigned to a crew with an experienced ... more >> 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 you arrive.
   New York City, NY; NYC
12:00 pm
free, registration required
Workshops, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, An Afternoon of Rowing in New York Harbor

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 ... more >> 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! You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Park Walks, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Women's Walk in the Park

Tour | Explore One of NYC's Most Unique Public Spaces: A Look at History, Design, & Environment


A historical walking tour of the area's highlights. Look into the past of this unique area of NYC and ... more >> learn about its excit-ing trans-for-ma-tion and future. In this walk-ing tours led by official guides, you'll exam-ine how his-toric preser-va-tion, inno-v-a-tive design, and envi-ron-men-tal stew-ard-ship make the area what it is today.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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12:45 pm
free, RSVP required
Tours, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Explore One of NYC's Most Unique Public Spaces: A Look at History, Design, & Environment

Workshop | Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove


This event provides the equipment, instruction, and oversight you need to experience a safe and fun afternoon ... more >> of kayaking on the Hudson River. The program is beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or guardian) and know how to swim. Come dressed to get wet! Lockers and locks will be provided to keep valuables dry, and on-site changing rooms will be available for use. To save time, you can also sign a waiver before arriving to save time, available at the link provided. Be sure to allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit. You may not get a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before the boathouse closes.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Workshops, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove

Party | Reading on the Lawn: Bring a Book & Make New Friends (+ Live Music)


A summery Sunday afternoon for reading and socializing. Live music. Waterfront views. A couple hundred ... more >> people reading together for the afternoon. What to expect: A low-key, unplugged Sunday afternoon on the waterfront 1 hour of reading to live music 1-on-1 breakout conversations and group discussion with fellow readers What to bring: BYO blanket (or towel, or yoga mat, no chairs on the lawn, please!) BYO book (any book, any genre, whatever you want to read) BYO sunscreen, water, sunglasses, and hat A friend if you want, or come solo!
   New York City, NY; NYC
1:00 pm
free, registration required
Partys, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Reading on the Lawn: Bring a Book & Make New Friends (+ Live Music)

Workshop | Solar Gazing on the Pier with Special Equipment


The Amateur Astronomers Association and solar gazing bring solar telescopes specifically designed to ... more >> safely look at the sun and see sunspots and prominences under a summer sky. 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
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1:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Workshops, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Solar Gazing on the Pier with Special Equipment

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, 1 drink...
Concerts, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)

Author Reading | Award-Winning Author Reads from His Latest Story Collection with Translator (English & Spanish)


This event brings together author Roberto Azcorra Cámara and translator Pennell Somsen for a bilingual ... more >> reading from Medusa reina. Azcorra Cámara's stories delve into the intimacy of relationships, revealing how, even amidst misfortune and missteps, a path remains — sometimes luminous, sometimes dark, always unexpected. They explore romantic love, maternal devotion, forbidden desire, and grief through the lens of memory and urban space, with five stories sharing a recurring protagonist whose arc forms a puzzle for the attentive reader. The stories don't end definitively, leaving the outcome to the protagonists — and to the reader. Azcorra Cámara and Somsen will read selected passages in both Spanish and English, discuss the process of writing and translating, and invite questions from the audience.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Author Readings, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Award-Winning Author Reads from His Latest Story Collection with Translator (English & Spanish)

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 ... more >> 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
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Tours, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century

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. ... more >> 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
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Concerts, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists

Classical Music | Music on the Water: Works for Strings & Piano


Piano Trios by Shostakovich, Haydn, and Brahms. Performed by Mark Peskanov, violin, Julian Schwarz, cello, ... more >> and Marika Bournaki, piano.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Concerts, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Music on the Water: Works for Strings & Piano

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 ... more >> 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
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2:45 pm
free, no reservation required
Partys, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Roller Dance Social In a Park with Live DJ

Play | Moliere's Don Juan: Provocative Tragicomedy with Live Music (in the Park)


Don Juan has abandoned Elvira, whom he seduced into breaking her vows and marrying him. Over the course ... more >> of a single adventure-filled day, he and his loyal sidekick, Sganarelle, encounter many of the people Don Juan has betrayed. As he seduces women, defies social conventions, mocks religion, and revels in provocation, his appetite for transgression seems impossible to satisfy. Yet the signs are unmistakable: the walls are closing in. Will he truly repent? Or will he just pretend to, like so many around him, and continue down the same path to the bitter end? Playwright: Moliere Translator/Adaptor: Stephen Wadsworth Director: Lucie Tiberghien Cast: Keshav Moodliar, Kaliswa Brewster, Naomi Lorrain, Daniel Pearce, Michelle Veintimilla This presentation will feature live original cello music by Drama Desk-nominated composer Johnathan Moore.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
free, tickets required
Plays, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Moliere's Don Juan: Provocative Tragicomedy with Live Music (in the Park)

Concert | Autumn Arts & Music Jam


Hosted by Demetrius Daniel, stop by the Fall Equinox Jam to celebrate the beginning of fall with words, ... more >> music, and dance.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
free, RSVP required
Concerts, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Autumn Arts & Music Jam

Museums | Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum


Explore the premier collections of modern and contemporary art in one of the world's most iconic architectural ... more >> landmarks. 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
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4:00 pm
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
Museumss, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum

Jazz | Grammy-Winning Vocalist Brings Blues, Cabaret, Baroque, & More Tunes to a Historic Church (In Person AND Online!)


Cécile McLorin Salvant brings her musical imagination to this performance. She weaves jazz, blues, cabaret, ... more >> and baroque with her own compositions, through which she explores narrative power dynamics and folklore. Salvant will be collaborating with Glenn Zaleski, a pianist known for his stylistic versatility and refined touch.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
free, registration required
Concerts, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Grammy-Winning Vocalist Brings Blues, Cabaret, Baroque, & More Tunes to a Historic Church (In Person AND Online!)

Poetry Reading | An Evening of Poetry in the Garden


Enjoy an outdoor poetry reading hosted in partnership with McNally Jackson. Submit your work at the link ... more >> provided to read at the event!
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
free, no reservation required
Poetry Readings, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, An Evening of Poetry in the Garden

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. ... more >> Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design. Please note that the museum is currently undergoing an exhibition changeover, and the third-floor galleries are closed.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Museumss, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution

Classical Music | Organ Works by Wagner & More in a Beautiful Church


Organist Nigel Potts. Program: Richard Wagner (1813-1883) Prelude to Act 1 from Lohengrin Herbert Howells ... more >> (1892-1983) Prelude Set 2 No. 3 Guy Ropartz (1864-1955) Prelude funebre Max Reger (1873-1916) Siegesfeier
   New York City, NY; NYC
5:15 pm
free, no reservation required
Concerts, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Organ Works by Wagner & More in a Beautiful Church

Play | Moliere's Don Juan: Provocative Tragicomedy with Live Music (in the Park)


Don Juan has abandoned Elvira, whom he seduced into breaking her vows and marrying him. Over the course ... more >> of a single adventure-filled day, he and his loyal sidekick, Sganarelle, encounter many of the people Don Juan has betrayed. As he seduces women, defies social conventions, mocks religion, and revels in provocation, his appetite for transgression seems impossible to satisfy. Yet the signs are unmistakable: the walls are closing in. Will he truly repent? Or will he just pretend to, like so many around him, and continue down the same path to the bitter end? Playwright: Moliere Translator/Adaptor: Stephen Wadsworth Director: Lucie Tiberghien Cast: Keshav Moodliar, Kaliswa Brewster, Naomi Lorrain, Daniel Pearce, Michelle Veintimilla This presentation will feature live original cello music by Drama Desk-nominated composer Johnathan Moore.
   New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
free, tickets required
Plays, September 20, 2026, 09/20/2026, Moliere's Don Juan: Provocative Tragicomedy with Live Music (in the Park)
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Complimentary Tickets

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

Jazz | "Trad-Jazz Revivalist" at World Famous Venue

Regular Price: $35
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Jazz | Jazz Ensemble at World Famous Venue

Regular Price: $45
CFT Member Price: $0.00

Performance | Erotic Burlesque Show

Regular Price: $135
CFT Member Price: $0.00