free things to do in New York City
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, May 31, 2025!
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Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
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In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
May 31, 2025. Free shows, free concerts, free movies, free tours, free readings, worshops, lectures, etc. are New York's best kept secret! Learn all about it and do not miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides: NYC never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So start using these unique New York City opportunities today, May 31, 2025!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, May 31, 2025!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in New York City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (May 31, 2025) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
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!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
Editor's Picks
35 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Saturday, May 31, 2025
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Get in Shape: Cardio & Strength
Classes to help New Yorkers get and stay fit.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:30 am
Free
Free
Fair | Carroll Gardens Street Fair
Celebrate community, creativity, and culture at this vibrant street fair! Discover a colorful mix of artisan goods, live entertainment, and educational activities. This lively outdoor event highlights the diversity and spirit of the neighborhood while supporting local nonprofits, merchant associations, and community organizations.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Park Walk | Discover the History & Design of One of New York's Most Unique Park
Hear the story behind New York City's park in the sky: an insider's perspective on the park's history, design, and landscape.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Drawing in the Park
Paint in watercolor or use pastels and other drawing materials to capture the magical vistas of the Hudson River and the unique landscape of South Cove. An artist/educator will help participants of all levels with instruction and critique. Materials provided, and artists are encouraged to bring their own favorite media.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking with View of Lower Manhattan
Want to go kayaking with an amazing view of lower Manhattan and the NYC harbor? Then you've come to the right place. Glide along the water this summer and fall in a protected embayment by kayaking! All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers -- life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. 20 minute timed slots.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Fair | Street Fair
Celebrate community, creativity, and culture at this vibrant street fair! Discover a colorful mix of artisan goods, live entertainment, and educational activities. This lively outdoor event highlights the diversity and spirit of the neighborhood while supporting local nonprofits, merchant associations, and community organizations.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park led by Certified Instructor
Start your weekend with balance and clarity at this free Tai Chi Warm-Up Essentials class led by certified Universal Tao instructor Richard Anton Diaz. Open to all levels, this gentle yet effective practice helps improve posture, ease joint stiffness, sharpen mental focus, and reduce stress. Held weekly in the peaceful surroundings of nature, this outdoor class offers a restorative start to your Saturday--and simple tools to enhance your daily well-being.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Fair | Upper East Side Street Fair
Celebrate community, creativity, and culture at this vibrant street fair! Discover a colorful mix of artisan goods, live entertainment, and educational activities. This lively outdoor event highlights the diversity and spirit of the neighborhood while supporting local nonprofits, merchant associations, and community organizations.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Celebrate & Explore Native Hawaiian Culture
In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, museum educators will lead hands-on activities related to Hawaiian culture. Stop by to learn about the process used by Native Hawaiians to create kapa, cloth made from paper mulberry tree bark, or wauke. Chat with educators, learn about the tools used to create kapa, and as a keepsake, stamp a bag with kapa designs to take home.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Dance Fitness Class for All Ages
Colorful outfits encouraged at this creative workout that fuses dance and aerobics! Space 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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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Family Fun at a Historical Site: Sailor Adventures
Enjoy interactive activities and engagement stations for visitors of all ages. Incorporate 19th-century maritime craft traditions into your handmade Valentine's Day cards and unique trinkets for the holiday. You can also browse galleries and learn about ships, life at sea and more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
$1, registration required
$1, registration required
Museums | Family Fun with Maritime History
Every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Museum hosts free hands-on activities and engagement stations for visitors of all ages. Explore maritime history, New York’s origins as a port city, and the Museum’s unique collections while enjoying fun, family-friendly programming across locations. Activities change monthly—ask staff for the day’s offerings when you check in!
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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11:00 am
Free
Free
Author Reading | Photobook Meet-Up with NYT-Featured Photograher Tommy Kha
Explore the museum's photobook library during Photobook Club, a community meet-up for book enthusiasts, photographers, and lovers of printed images. Bring your favorite photobook, zine, or other image focused publication to share while exploring monthly selections from the the museum's stacks during this community-building event. From 11AM - 12PM, explore selections from photographer Tommy Kha in celebration of Asian Heritage Month. Later, Kha himself will share about his practice and the photobooks that have inspired him. The reading library contains over 20,000 books and periodicals. Tommy Kha (b. Memphis, Tennessee) lives in Brooklyn, NY. He is a recipient of the Hayes Prize, previously, he received the Next Step Award, Foam Talent, and NYSCA/NYFA Photography Fellow. His work has been published in The New York Times, the New Yorker, and Foam. He has had solo shows at Higher Pictures Generation, Baxter St. at the Camera Club of New York, and Blue Sky Gallery.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
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
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11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Master Class | Learn Acting & Public Speaking Skills with Theater Pro
Designed for anyone who wants to “take the stage” – in acting or public speaking! The art of acting is not just about being the next famous actor, but it explores life skills that everyone can utilize in any profession. Explore the elements of acting while freeing your creativity, increasing your confidence, and learning how to work effectively in a group. The tools and techniques of the actor’s craft are introduced through a wide variety of exercises, games, improvisations, short-scripted material, monologues, and scenes. Use these tools and techniques to forward your career and improve your listening and communication skills. No experience necessary.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
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. First-come, first-served; this guided tour 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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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Festival | Museum Celebration: Music, Interactive Art, Talks, & More
Be among the first to experience a new wing of this museum, featuring the museum's collections of the arts of Africa, the ancient Americas, and Oceania. Enjoy an afternoon of live music, interactive art making, gallery chats, and more--all inspired by the remarkable art and cultures showcased in the newly reimagined galleries. Kick off the celebration at noon outside on the plaza with a vibrant performance by Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Real de Mexico, the dynamic Senegalese drumming ensemble MAX Percussion, and a captivating Maori chant and haka. Contribute to a communal mural inspired by the intricate designs of a Ceremonial House Ceiling from Papua New Guinea, marvel at weaving demonstrations by master artists from Polynesia and Peru, and enjoy engaging conversations with curators, scholars, and artists. Note: Space is limited; first come, first served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | The History and Whimsy of a Legendary Seaside Playground
Step into a colorful past at the only museum devoted entirely to preserving the story of one of America’s most iconic entertainment destinations. Explore an extraordinary collection of vintage signs, historic photographs, rare ephemera, and artifacts from over a century of amusements and oddities. From sideshow banners to roller coaster memorabilia, this museum captures the vibrant spirit and layered history of a beloved cultural landmark.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
$5 entry for...
$5 entry for...
Workshop | High-Energy Workout Series
Get ready to sweat it out with a boxing-inspired high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout designed to boost endurance, strengthen your core, and get your heart pumping. Backed by NewYork-Presbyterian’s health experts, this studio-style session makes vigorous aerobic exercise fun and effective. Spots are limited and released weekly, so early registration is recommended. Please arrive 15 minutes before class to complete a required onsite waiver.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:15 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Explore Hidden Worlds Through Nature and Discovery
Drop in for free open hours and investigate monthly educational themes. Observe local marine life in a 250-gallon aquarium, explore a large-scale park model, dive into crafts and reading, and more. Guided by expert educators, visitors of all ages are invited to uncover the hidden stories of the environment through hands-on activities and self-led exploration.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn Letterpress Printing with a Professional
Spend a Saturday afternoon learning a variety of artistic practices from a rotating group of incredibly talented local creators! At this workshop, local artist Dikko Faust will lead a printing class, touching on different types of printmaking such as nature rubbings, paste papers, stencils and more. At the residency’s conclusion, Dikko will introduce participants to his Kelsey clamshell letterpress. Dikko Faust is an artist and letterpress printmaker. Dikko Faust began Purgatory Pie Press at University of Wisconsin–Madison in 1977, moved to New York’s Center for Book Arts, and is now one of the longest running artist presses in the world. Faust teaches letterpress printmaking at the School for Visual Arts.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Play Contemporary Games & Make New Friends
Play your favorite contemporary board games! Featured games include but are not limited to Chameleon, Wavelength, Avalon, Parade, Splendor, Century Spice Road, Mountain Goats, No Thanks, Codenames, Werewords, Spyfall, Azul, Letter Jam, Dixit, In Kahootz, and Captain Sonar. A new game will be selected each week.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | The Women (1939): Comedy Drama with Joan Crawford
A cabal of catty and chatty high-society women chime in on the affairs of a cuckolded wife and mother dealing with an adulterous husband. An adaptation of the Clare Boothe Luce Broadway hit. Director: George Cukor Cast: Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, Rosalind Russell Joan Crawford was an American actress, who, during the 1920s into the 30s, was one of Hollywood's most prominent movie stars and one of the highest paid women in the U.S.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Celebrate & Explore Native Hawaiian Culture
In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, museum educators will lead hands-on activities related to Hawaiian culture. Stop by to learn about the process used by Native Hawaiians to create kapa, cloth made from paper mulberry tree bark, or wauke. Chat with educators, learn about the tools used to create kapa, and as a keepsake, stamp a bag with kapa designs to take home.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music on the Water: Works by Mozart, Beethoven & More for Violin and Piano
Mark Peskanov, violin, and Koren Volk, piano, perform works by significant composers of the Baroque and Romantic eras Program Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) selections from the sonatas for violin and piano Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) selections from the sonatas for violin and piano George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) selections from the sonatas for violin and piano Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Rondo Brillant in B minor, D. 895
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Tour - Arts and Cultural Heritage of Spain and Portugal: Goya, El Greco and Others
Explore the best items this museum has on display with this guided tour. Paintings, sculptures, ceramics, antiquities, and more by world-famous artists.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Creative Writing Workshop for All Skill Levels
This workshop is designed to help writers unlock their creative potential. The group will engage in fun idea generating exercises and work together to get results and find joy in the writing process. All writers of any experience level are welcome. If you're curious, come check it out! This workshop will explore foundational writing techniques and best practices. Prior attendance is not required. The group will also investigate alternative, non-traditional narrative forms, as well as read and discuss short stories and poetry.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Short Films & Discussion about Africa’s Distinct Landmarks
Enjoy a selection of short films from a newly produced series developed in collaboration with World Monuments Fund that foreground twelve of sub-Saharan Africa’s distinct landmarks. Then, listen as a range of experts who contributed to the films share behind-the-scenes stories of the filmmaking process. Gain deeper insights into the significance of these unique cultural sites and expand your understanding of Africa’s immense cultural diversity. Please note: Space is limited; first come, first served.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
registration recommended, free...
registration recommended, free...
Museums | Art from All Over The World: Modern and Contemporary
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
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4:00 pm
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
Classical Music | Music on the Water: Works by Mozart, Beethoven & More for Violin and Piano
Mark Peskanov, violin, and Koren Volk, piano, perform works by significant composers of the Baroque and Romantic eras Program Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) selections from the sonatas for violin and piano Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) selections from the sonatas for violin and piano George Frideric Handel (1685-1759) selections from the sonatas for violin and piano Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Rondo Brillant in B minor, D. 895
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
4:00 pm
Free
Free
Movie in a Park | Identity, Migration, and Memory: Three Short Documentaries Exploring American Chinatowns
Luka Yuanyuan Yang is a visual artist and filmmaker whose practice, characterized by interwoven documentary and archival materials, addresses themes of identity, migration, and memory, challenging conventional historical narratives and amplifying overlooked voices. During a year-long research trip across the US in 2018, Yang was captivated by the rich history of migration and adaptation in America's Chinatowns. From 1882 until the 1950s, due to the Chinese Exclusion Act and racial discrimination, Chinese Americans were largely confined to Chinatowns. During this same period, Yang began researching the stories of Chinese women in 20th-century American performing arts, seeking to uncover the experiences of Chinese women performers whose stories have been forgotten or misunderstood by history. Yang's exploration of these neighborhoods, the Chinese diaspora, and performing artists has become the central focus of her short films and feature film Chinatown Cha-Cha, and her recently published artist book Dance in Herland. In a time of rising threats to America's Chinatowns, the artist brings generations together through film, dance, and dialogue. For this screening, Yang presents Tales of Chinatown, an exhibition of three of her short films: Cantonese Tunes on Mott Street (2022), The Lady From Shanghai (2019), and Tales of Chinatown (2019). By following her protagonists on the streets, through their communities, and into their homes, Yang amplifies the voices of those often denied the chance to share their own stories--individuals who have been forgotten, silenced, or misinterpreted.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare Comedy in the Park: Much Ado about Nothing
Enjoy a performance of the beloved romantic comedy Much Ado about Nothing. Director Rebecca Martinez presents a bilingual, 100-minute, family-friendly take on the classic tale of love, deception, and misunderstandings blends Latine influences, original music, and Shakespeare's timeless wit. All performances take place outdoors. Chair seating is available at all locations, but seating is limited, and general admission is on a first-come, first-served basis, and is not guaranteed.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare's Julius Caesar on the Patio
The tragedy of Julius Casar is a history play and tragedy. It's about Brutus joining the conspiracy led by Cassius to assassinate Julius Caesar, to prevent him from becoming a tyrant. Caesar's right-hand man Antony stirs up hostility against the conspirators and Rome becomes embroiled in a dramatic civil war. 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
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Comedy Club | Standup Show
Catch some of the best comedians at this free weekly stand-up show, featuring a lineup of rising stars and seasoned favorites. Past performers include Sheng Wang, Mark Normand, Dan Soder, Annie Lederman, and more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:00 pm
Free
Free
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | Large Chorus and Orchestra at a Landmark Venue
Regular Price: $55CFT Member Price: $0.00
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