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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 22, 2026!
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!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York, 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 22, 2026. Free shows, concerts, movies, tours are New York (NYC) best kept secret! New York City 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 do not wot till tomorrow, start using these unique New York City opportunities today, May 22, 2026!
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 22, 2026!
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 the City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (May 22, 2026) 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, 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 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
41 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Friday, May 22, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Concert | Bleachers LIVE, Indie-Rock Outdoors
Get a fun start to your day with this performance from indie rock band Bleachers. Fans on the General Admission line will be admitted if space permits. It's advised that you arrive early to join the line. Generally, concerts happen rain or shine. Check-in for those with fan passes is at 5:15 a.m. The start time is approximate. Photo ID required for entry. Generally, concerts happen rain or shine.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 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
Play | A New HAMLET for a New Generation
Shakespeare’s most haunting tragedy returns in a bold 75-minute adaptation featuring a dynamic six-person ensemble and a striking modern verse translation by Lisa Peterson. Blending emotional intensity, sharp storytelling, and powerful poetry, this reimagined HAMLET offers an engaging experience for students, lifelong learners, and devoted theater lovers alike. Each performance includes a post-show Q&A with the artists.
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
Museums | Jewish History: Centuries of Art
As one of the largest collections of art in Jewish culture globally, the venue features an extensive array of historical Jewish artifacts as well as modern and contemporary art.
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 | NYC Skyline Painting Lesson in the Park (All Ages & Skill Levels)
Paint the NYC skyline from observation with an alla prima ("wet-on-wet") painting lesson! All skill levels are welcome. Beginners can learn the fundamentals of alla prima painting with oils and optionally follow the teacher step-by-step. Get inspired by the urban life, flowers, and monuments in the park, then express it with the provided drawing and craft supplies. Adults and kids alike are invited to get creative!
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Clay Sculpture Lesson (Part 2)
Participants will have the opportunity to roll up their sleeves and start hand-building their own unique sculptures using all sorts of fun tools and techniques. Whether you follow our playful prompts or go totally freestyle, you’ll leave with something truly one-of-a-kind. In part two of this sculpture workshop, the group will decorate our sculptures with paint. Come roll up your sleeves and let your imagination run wild as attendees glaze (paint) their creations from our first session to bring them to life!
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
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
Jazz | Piano in the Park: Carnegie Hall-Featured Musician Plays Brazilian & American Jazz
Come on down and swing along to the best Brazilian and American jazz the Big Apple has to offer, with musician Luiz Simas. “Luiz epitomizes the fantasies we non-Brazilians have about that wonderful country, and with him, we all get to be Brazilian, at least for a couple hours!” - Judy Carmichael, pianist Brazilian/American pianist Luiz Simas is a versatile performer who feels totally at ease with both the music of his native Brazil and the American genres of jazz and ragtime. Keyboard magazine has described his playing as "sassy, clear and vibrant", and his music as "fresh, smart and witty". His latest CDs are Transparências (Transparencies), a solo piano CD released by Lydjul Records, and Deuce, a CD of the Simas & Amorim Duo with guitarist Wesley Amorim.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Liar Liar (1997): Fantasy Comedy Starring Jim Carrey
A pathological liar-lawyer finds his career turned upside down when he inexplicably cannot physically lie for 24 whole hours. Director: Tom Shadyac Cast: Jim Carrey, Maura Tierney, Jennifer Tilly, Swoosie Kurtz, Amanda Donohoe, Anne Haney, Justin Cooper Jim Carrey is a Canadian and American actor and comedian. Known primarily for his energetic slapstick performances, he's regarded as one of the most prominent comedic actors of his generation. He has received two Golden Globe Awards, in addition to nominations for BAFTA Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards. 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 | Drop (2025): Mystery Thriller Film
A widowed mother's first date in years takes a terrifying turn when she's bombarded with anonymous threatening messages, leaving her questioning if her date is behind the harrassment. Director: Christopher Landon Cast: Meghann Fahy, Brandon Sklenar, Violett Beane, Jeffery Self
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Fagara (2019): Hong Kong Family Drama
Acacia is a Hong Kong travel agent who, after the sudden death of her father, discovers she has two grown-up sisters. Branch is an androgynous pool player who lives in Taiwan, and Cherry is a fashionista from China. The three sisters team up to settle their father's debts and save his hot pot restaurant. While doing so, they mourn their father, get to know each other, and connect as a family. Director: Heiward Mak Cast: Sammi Cheng, Megan Lai, Li Xiaofeng Cantonese, Mandarin 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 | Learn About Hawaiian Kapa Printing and Cultural Arts
Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with hands-on activities that explore the Hawaiian art of kapa making. Kapa is a traditional Hawaiian cloth made by beating and layering the inner bark of the wauke, or paper mulberry tree, and often decorated with geometric patterns and natural dyes. Visitors can learn about kapa-making tools and techniques and create a stamped bookmark inspired by traditional designs to take home.
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
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
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
Festival | Arts Showcase: Film. Poetry, Dance, Art, & More on Theme "Courage Through the Arts"
Experience the 30th annual Lower East Side Festival of the Arts, featuring hundreds of performing arts organizations, independent artists, poets, puppeteers, and film makers. The festival is mounted with the theme "Courage Through the Arts: A Vote Against Tyranny." The subject will be addressed in some of the playlets and acts written for the festival. Different programs for each space in the theater! This day's program features: Artichoke Dance Company, Rod Rodgers Dance Company, Drilling Company, Street Theater Company, TNC Street Theater, Textile Theater Collective, Penny Arcade, Lower East Side Performing Arts, and many more.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Opera | Handel's Tolomeo Reimagined as a One-Hour Baroque Opera Distillation
Watch a condensed version of works by George Frideric Handel for voices and ensemble in this site-specific adaptation of Baroque opera. This one-hour reimagining of Handel's Tolomeo (1728) compresses the original opera into a sequence of arias centered on love, jealousy, betrayal, and exile. The production emphasizes emotional intensity and narrative clarity while retaining the ornamental vocal language of Baroque style. Performed across multiple outdoor and indoor sites in New York City, the work reframes early 18th-century opera as a mobile, accessible performance form in contemporary public space.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Movie on the Hudson at Sunset: Top Gun
This summer movie series kicks off with a screening of the classic film Top Gun. Enjoy views of the Hudson River and city skyline while screening the classic film on a flight deck. Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs, picnic baskets and blankets to view the film outdoors on a huge inflatable screen on the flight deck. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and space is limited. Light concessions will be sold onsite, and visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Alcohol is NOT permitted. All exits are final; there is no re-entry allowed. Doors open at 6:00 pm. The movie will begin at sunset.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Rhythm, Storytelling, & Crowd Connection with DJ Yup That's J.
DJ Yup That's J. curates the evening's vibe. A native New Yorker and lifelong performing artist, DJ Yup That's J. brings a deep understanding of rhythm, storytelling, and crowd connection to every set. Blending technical skill with stage presence, their performances are rooted not only in experience and energy, but also in a true passion for the craft of music and live performance.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Spiritual Documentary Film: Life and Teachings of Adi Da Samraj
A screening of the award-winning documentary Conscious Light, exploring the life and teachings of Adi Da Samraj. The film offers insight into his spiritual philosophy and global influence.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | A Day of Interactive Math Exploration
Enjoy an evening of hands-on discovery in a space where math comes alive through play and imagination. Explore interactive exhibits and creative activities for all ages. This month, explore birthday-inspired math magic! Note: Admission is first-come, first-served, and early arrival is recommended, as capacity is limited.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Historian Discusses Her New Book, Fire and Rain: Nixon, Kissinger, and the Wars in Southeast Asia (In Person AND Online!)
Carolyn Eisenberg, professor of History at Hofstra University, dicusses her new book, Fire and Rain: Nixon, Kissinger, and the Wars in Southeast Asia. Professor Eisenberg has lectured widely, publishing numerous articles on issues of war and peace. She was the consultant to the New York Historical Society for their exhibition on Vietnam, as well as to visiting historians from Vietnam, interested in using American archives. She has worked with several Congressional offices on foreign policy issues and is presently the legislative coordinator for Historians for Peace and Democracy.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Baseball
Today's Schedule:
7:05pm - 10:00pm MLB- NYY vs Tampa Bay
7:10pm - 10:00pm MLB- Mets vs Miami
*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
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Sunset Tunes in the Park
The Jazz Foundation of America presents a spirited sunset concert featuring renowned bandleaders playing a variety of jazz and Latin styles. 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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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Works by Beethoven & Richard Strauss for Violin and Piano
Violinist Rolf Schulte and pianist Judith Olson present a concert of two major works of the chamber music repertoire. Program: Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Violin Sonata in C minor Richard Strauss (1864-1949) Violin Sonata
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Musical | Most Wanted: Staged Concert Exploring Fame & Celebrity
Award-winning composer Mark Bennett and celebrated writer Jessica Hagedorn join forces with director Emilio Ramos for a staged concert of Most Wanted, a piece that interrogates our dangerous obsession with fame and celebrity. Set in the aftermath of a notorious assassination and manhunt in 1997, Most Wanted is loosely inspired by the life and crimes of Andrew Cunanan--a kaleidoscopic journey through high fashion, glossy magazines, low dives, and the end of the line for a lost young man. Please note: This performance contains adult themes and strong language. Audience discretion is advised; this show is intended for ages 13+. 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: $20
Member: $0
Regular: $20
Member: $0
Join the Club!
7:30 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
Regular: $35
Member: $0
Regular: $35
Member: $0
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Play | Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet: Broadway & Film Actors in a Timeless Tale of Starcrossed Lovers
Never was there a story of more woe, or more romance, than the Bard’s timeless tale of two young lovers from warring families. As the Montagues and Capulets are torn apart by ideology and simmering violence spills into the streets of the border town of Verona, Romeo and Juliet dare to defy a world determined to keep them apart. In this bold new staging, the play unfolds in English, but Romeo and Juliet speak to one another in Spanish, a language reserved only for their shared world. Don’t miss this thrilling new production, essential viewing for lovers of Shakespeare, theater, and the enduring power of love itself. Written by William Shakespeare Directed by Saheem Ali Cast: Ra'Mya Latiah Aikens, Sergio Mauritz Ang (TV: Crutch, Law & Order: SVU), Daniel Bravo Hernández (Broadway: Romeo + Juliet), Reece dos Santos, Caleb Joshua Eberhardt (Broadway: An Enemy of the People, Choir Boy), Glenn Fleshler (Broadway: Good Night, and Good Luck, Death of a Salesman, Arcadia, Guys and Dolls, Spring Awakening; Film: Joker, A Most Violent Year; TV: Billions, Barry, True Detective, Boardwalk Empire), Francis Jue (Tony, Outer Critics Circle, Lucille Lortel, and Obie Awards for Yellow Face)
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Movie in a Park | Wicked (2024): Broadway Fantasy Musical Adaptation with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande (under the Nightsky)
Grab a blanket and come enjoy a movie in a neighborhood park! Synopsis: Elphaba, a young woman ridiculed for her green skin, and Galinda, a popular girl, become friends at Shiz University in the Land of Oz. After an encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads. Director: Jon M. Chu Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Peter Dinklage, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum Movie begins at dusk. Glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited. In the event of heavy rain or extreme weather, the screening may be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:10 pm
Free
Free
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Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Classical Music | Faure's Masterpiece and More at a Landmark Venue
Regular Price: $65CFT Member Price: $0.00
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