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, January 14, 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
January 14, 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, January 14, 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, January 14, 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 (January 14, 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).
34 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Central Park Running Session (All Levels Welcome)
If you prefer not to run alone or are looking to improve your running performance, you can run with a club! Open to runners of all levels. Weekly changed routes through the park. Coaches, training, running company and inspiration!
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | New York City: History, Architecture, Social Movements, Cultural Diversity
This museum holds over 1,5 million artifacts, including photographs, paintings, decorative arts, costumes, and documents that tell the story of New York's development and its inhabitants. Explore the galleries and discover the rich history and vibrant culture of New York City!
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Tour | Explore an Exhibition on Black Musical Theater History
Enjoy a guided tour of the new exhibition on Black musical theater history, Syncopated Stages: Black Disruptions to the Great White Way! This staff-led tour highlights the contributions of Black artists, shows, and theaters in the musical theater field, from pioneering artists of the 19th century to the great culture shapers and innovators of today.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 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. 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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11:00 am
Free
Free
Galleries | Film Works Exploring Indigenous Life, Land, and Representation
A three-part survey of moving-image works by Duane Linklater traces the artist’s ongoing exploration of Indigenous presence, land, and self-representation through film. Presented in conjunction with his newest exhibition, the series highlights the artist’s formal experimentation and collaborations across three rotating programs: Program 3: Modest Livelihood (Jan 14–Feb 21, 2026) A feature-length collaboration with Brian Jungen follows the artists on a hunting trip across Treaty 8 territory, reimagining the documentary form as an act of care and connection to land.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Italian Art Under Fascism: Creativity and Constraint (Online!)
Join scholar Nicola Lucchi online to explore how Italian artists navigated the cultural landscape of the Fascist regime. The lecture examines how modernist experimentation and conservative classicism were embraced, resisted, or negotiated under political pressure.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | New York City Hall Guided Tour
One of the oldest continuously used city halls in the nation that still houses its original governmental functions, New York's City Hall is considered one of the finest architectural achievements of its period. Constructed from 1803 to 1812, the building was an early expression of the City's cosmopolitanism. City Hall is a designated New York City landmark, and its rotunda is also a designated interior landmark. Note: When registering, choose the "Individual Tour" option.
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
Workshop | Adult Chorus Session Open to All
Directed by Church Street School of Music, the Downtown Beats adult chorus is open to all who love to sing! Learn contemporary and classic songs and perform at community events throughout the year.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Chamber Works by Bartok in a Famous Venue
Juilliard chamber musicians perform two divergent works. Program: David Baker (1931-2016) Roots II Bela Bartok (1881-1945) String Quartet No. 1 in A Minor
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Afternoon in a Magnificent Small Museum
Internationally recognized as a premier museum and research center, this museum is known for its distinguished Old Master paintings and outstanding examples of European sculpture and decorative arts.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Pay-What-You-Wish, reservation required
Pay-What-You-Wish, reservation required
Workshop | Free-Form Creative Writing Session
This event is an afternoon of live, free-form creative writing. No formal writing experience is required - just enthusiasm and curiosity to see where writing takes you. Participants are provided with suggested prompts at the start of the session, approximately 30 minutes to free write, and the remainder of the hour to share and listen to others' pieces. This is a relaxed forum to experiment with and strengthen your writing. There is the option, but not the requirement, to share your work in each session. Come write freely and meet other people who love writing for the sake of writing!
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | The Appaloosa (1966): Western Film Starring Marlon Brando
A buffalo hunter feuds with a Mexican bandit who stole his horse in the 1870's Southwest. The rivalry becomes even more intense when the hunter and the bandit's girlfriend fall in love, triggering a bloody showdown. Director: Sidney J. Furie Cast: Marlon Brando, Anjanette Comer, John Saxon, Emilio Fernández Marlon Brando was considered one of the greatest actors of the 20th century. He received numerous accolades throughout his career, which spanned six decades, including two Academy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, one Cannes Film Festival Award, and three British Academy Film Awards. Brando is credited with being one of the first actors to bring the Stanislavski system of acting, and method acting, to mainstream audiences.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Photographer Shares Tips on Creating Imaginative, Narrative-Rich Images
Attend an inspiring session with internationally published photographer Anya Anti. Discover how she blends imagination and technique to craft fine art, conceptual portraits that feel both surreal and emotive. This event promises to spark creativity and elevate your artistic vision.
Building narrative-rich portraits through creative lighting and composition
Crafting dreamlike scenes with props, locations, and vision
Turning emotion and metaphor into compelling photographic art
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Gallery Talk | Learn How a Historic Mansion Turned into a Museum
Join a museum educator for a brief gallery talk tracing how a Gilded Age mansion was transformed into a world-class art museum.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | How Math Shapes the Body's Natural Rhythms
Discover the mathematical patterns that guide sleep, mood, heart rate, metabolism, and other essential body systems. Learn how math helps explain our internal clocks and how we adapt to jet lag, seasonal changes, daylight savings, and modern schedules. Attendees are invited to bring their wearables and phones to explore the real-time math behind their own daily rhythms.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Discuss the Ideas of Langston Hughes' "Let America Be America Again"
In "Let America Be America Again," Langston Hughes names our nation's history of exclusion and struggle while refusing despair. At this program, the group will read and reflect on the poem together, as co-citizens committed to strengthening our capacities for civic dialogue.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Chamber Works by Debussy & Brahms
Performed by Juilliard musician: Claude Debussy (1862-1918) Selections from String Quartet in G Minor, Op. 10 Johann Brahms (1833-1897) Piano Trio No. 2 in C Major, Op. 87
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Architectural and Cultural Highlights of Lower Manhattan (Online!)
This virtual program offers a guided exploration of the Greenwich Village Historic District using a newly redesigned interactive map. The tour highlights key architectural and cultural sites across the district, touching on themes including LGBTQ+ history, Black and Jewish heritage, women’s history, and the neighborhood’s artistic and literary legacy. The program provides an overview of how digital tools are being used to document and interpret one of New York City’s most significant historic districts.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Board Games Meet-Up
Play a variety of board games, including Scrabble, Chess, Boggle, Bananagrams, Scattergories, and more! Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels are welcome. Studies have shown that playing board games can have positive effects on your mental, emotional, and physical health, including: o Improving memory and focus o Enhancing critical thinking skills o Making connections o Reducing stress (and screen time!)
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Cardio Circuit Blast: Full-Body Workout
Boost your endurance and get your heart pumping in this high-energy, full-body workout. Participants move through fun and challenging bodyweight circuits designed for all fitness levels. Bring water and a towel.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Chef Shares Her New Cookbook, Mind, Body, Spirit, Food (+ Signing)
Enjoy a conversation with Chef Nicki Sizemore to celebrate her new book, Mind, Body, Spirit, Food, a refreshing collection of wholesome recipes and a look at how cooking can bring us closer to our families, our home, and ourselves. She will be in conversation with Jenny Rosenstrach, followed by a signing.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Opening Reception | Paired Works and Shared Rhythms
This group exhibition brings together twelve contemporary artists from different generations. Carefully paired, the exhibition examines how meaning arises through proximity, sequence, and rhythm. The structure remains flexible, encouraging viewers to notice the changing relationships between works positioned side by side.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Quiet Reading Meet Up
Bring a book or check one out of the library to read to yourself for one hour. After that, spend an hour socializing with those around you!
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Opening Reception | Solo-Exhibition Exploring Narratives of Race, Identity, & Nationality in Germany
Attend the opening of 3 Lieder für Marie Nejar (3 Songs for Marie Nejar), a solo-exhibition of artist James Gregory Atkinson. This exhibition showcases new and older works primarily as installation, video, sound, and photography developed by the artist over the last five years. In his research-based exhibition projects, artist James Gregory Atkinson combines social and political history with autobiographical perspectives to examine the absence of Afro-German experiences within established narratives of race, identity, and nationality in Germany. By integrating documents, objects, oral histories, bodies, places, and performative practices into a living, shared archive, he reimagines memory, experience, and knowledge as relational and dynamic, with each element functioning as a historical carrier.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Clayton: A Graphic Chronicle of the Lower East Side
Join a conversation about the new biographical graphic novel Clayton: Godfather of Lower East Side Documentary, which chronicles the life and work of legendary photographer and videographer Clayton Patterson. Known for documenting the vibrant, often overlooked cultures of New York’s Lower East Side, Patterson’s career spans four decades of underground art, music, and activism.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | Historian Discusses Evolution of the American Constitution (In Person AND Online!)
Constitutional scholar Akhil Reed Amar discusses how 19th and early 20th century debates about the ambitious vision that "all Americans are created equal" transformed the nation, as chronicled in the second part of his trilogy on American constitutional history, Born Equal: Remaking America’s Constitution, 1840–1920. In Born Equal, the prizewinning constitutional historian Akhil Reed Amar recounts the dramatic constitutional debates that unfolded across these eight decades, when four glorious amendments abolished slavery, secured Black and female citizenship, and extended suffrage regardless of race or gender.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Poetry Reading | Multilingual Poetry Night: Quantum Age
Discover the concepts of Quantum Age Poetry and Quantum Poetics with this multilingual poetry event exploringinnovative poetic frameworks.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Lecture | How Math Shapes the Body’s Natural Rhythms
Discover the mathematical patterns that guide sleep, mood, heart rate, metabolism, and other essential body systems. Learn how math helps explain our internal clocks and how we adapt to jet lag, seasonal changes, daylight savings, and modern schedules. Attendees are invited to bring their wearables and phones to explore the real-time math behind their own daily rhythms.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
7:00 pm
Free
Free
Dancing | Learn New Moves with Local Dance Instructors
Learn new moves from New York City’s finest dance instructors, then show off your style on the dance floor with a full hour of social dancing! Participants are welcome to bring their own partner, continue to dance solo, or dance with someone new!
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Talk | Architect Elizabeth Roberts Discusses Her Career
Enjoy an evening with architect Elizabeth Roberts, founder of one of New York’s most sought-after design firms, who has earned both critical acclaim and a devoted following for shaping spaces that deftly honor history while celebrating contemporary life. From her modern take on iconic furnishings to her understanding of how shared spaces come alive in restaurants and hotels to her penchant for imparting a sense of history into ground-up homes, Roberts has built a practice of specificity by dissolving the boundaries between architecture, objects, and interior design. Roberts will discuss her book, Elizabeth Roberts Architects: Collected Stories (Monacelli Press), an intentionally unconventional monograph that weaves project documentation with fiction, historical ephemera with hand-drawn sketches. She'll share how she approaches her projects at stories, how listening shapes her solutions, and why perfection is never the goal. Signed copies of Collected Stories will be available for purchase.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Baroque & Classical Double Bass Works by Couperin and More
Josue Daniel Reyes, Baroque double bass, performs a series of pieces by composers from the Baroque and Classical periods. Program: Antonio Stradella (1643-1682) Sonata a violino solo e basso François Couperin (1668-1733) Treiziéme Concert a 2 instruments à l’unisson Johannes Matthias Sperger (1750-1812) Quartetto Giambattista Cimador (1761-1805) Concerto per Contrabasso a Tre Corde
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
8:00 pm
Regular: $45
Member: $0
Regular: $45
Member: $0
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9:30 pm
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Join the Club!
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Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Concert | Met Opera Singers Perform Spirituals, Opera Selections and More
Regular Price: $25CFT Member Price: $0.00
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