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 12, 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 12, 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 12, 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 12, 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 12, 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
21 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Monday, January 12, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Start the Day with Morning Meditation
Start your day by balancing your mind, body, and spirit during instructor guided meditation. This renowned practice lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and strengthens the immune system.
New York City, NY; NYC
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9:45 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Lunchtime Meditation (in-person and online)
The sessions are non-denominational and will focus on the basics: meditation to quiet the mind, to focus the quiet mind, using the focused mind for analysis, and using the focused mind to create and uphold a positive vision of and outlook on the world. Other more specific uses of meditation may be discussed however the class is meant for all, beginners and those with a regular practice.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:15 pm
$7
$7
Film | Joy (2015): Biographical Comedy-Drama with Jennifer Lawrence & Robert DeNiro
Joy is the story of the title character, who rose to become founder and matriarch of a powerful family business dynasty. Director: David O. Russell Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro, Édgar Ramírez, Diane Ladd, Virginia Madsen Jennifer Lawrence is an American actress. She is known for starring in both action film franchises and independent dramas, and her films have grossed over $6 billion worldwide. The world's highest-paid actress in 2015 and 2016, she appeared in Time's 100 most influential people in the world list in 2013 and the Forbes Celebrity 100 list from 2013 to 2016. Robert DeNiro is an American actor who's known for collaborating with Scorsese. He's considered to be one of the most influential actors of his generation. De Niro has accrued many achievements, including two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe, and more. In 2009, De Niro received the Kennedy Center Honor. He was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Barack Obama in 2016. Short film discussion to follow.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Historical and Modern Design Spanning Centuries
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Workshop | Zumba: Latin-Inspired Dance Fitness
Get your heart pumping with Zumba, a dynamic workout set to Latin, international, and popular music. This fun, easy-to-follow class combines fast and slow rhythms for aerobic interval training that challenges both heart and muscles. Perfect for all fitness levels.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:15 pm
Free
Free
Party | Ice Skate with Olympian Gracie Gold
Two-time U.S. National Champion and 2014 Olympic Bronze Medalist Gracie Gold visits the park before she heads off to Milan as a commentator for the Olympics Channel. Skate with Gracie on the rink, take a photo, and help celebrate Team USA.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:20 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History
Reconnect with the feeling of community and cohesion that blanketed our city and nation in the wake of 9/11. This is a monument to human dignity, courage, and sacrifice, this museum honors the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993, recognizes the courage of those who survived, and salutes those who risked their lives to help others.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:30 pm
Free
Free
Film | Back Street (1961): Classic Drama Film Starring Susan Hayward
The story of a woman who had to shut her eyes to shame... when she opened her heart to love! A secret affair maintains its passion through the years. Director: David Miller Cast: Susan Hayward, John Gavin, Vera Miles Susan Hayward was a film actress who became a popular star during the 1940s and '50s known for playing courageous women fighting to overcome adversity. She was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress five times, winning it once.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn & Practice Chess with an Expert
Learn to play chess or develop your strategies with chess expert Tamar Chanadiri from the Marshall Chess Club. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions, as each one builds on the previous. Bring a friend or join on your own--all levels and ages are welcome! Chess sets are provided but you're welcome to bring your own. From 6-7 PM Tamar will provide instruction for beginner-level players. From 7-8 PM there will be open play for all levels.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Low Impact Bodyweight Circuit Training
Build strength and endurance with this full-body circuit workout using only your bodyweight. This low-impact class combines resistance and conditioning exercises for an effective, easy-on-the-joints session. Perfect for all fitness levels.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Move, Groove, and Sweat to 2000s Classics
Get moving in this high-energy dance fitness class that combines cardio, choreography, and fun. Groove to 2000s R&B, reggaeton, and pop hits while building strength and confidence. No dance experience is required.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch Discusses Public Safety in NYC
New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch presents a timely and important conversation with former congresswoman, the Eleanor Roosevelt Distinguished Leader in Residence at Roosevelt House, Carolyn B. Maloney. Experience this special event as Commissioner Tisch discusses her work to improve public safety in New York--and the path forward to creating a better, safer city for all New Yorkers.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Master Class | Play Traditional Scottish Dance Tunes
This is a workshop/jam to introduce musicians to traditional Scottish dance tunes. You will learn some tunes traditionally played for Scottish dances as well as some airs. If you don’t know a reel from a strathspey or jig or waltz, you will, by the end of the workshop! Listeners are also welcome. For adults 18+ | Musicians advanced beginner and up
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | The Art and Craft of the Picture Book
Examination of history and evolving traditions of the picture book, exploring how images and words work together to create stories that resonate across generations. Though often associated with childhood, picture books remain powerful literary, visual, and cultural forms for readers of all ages, bridging memory, imagination, and shared experience. With Sergio Ruzzier and Sophie Blackall
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Zumba Gold Workout
Zumba Gold offers a low-impact workout set to a fusion of Latin, International and popular music dance themes, creating a dynamic, exciting, effective fitness system! The routines feature aerobic fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that challenge both the heart and muscles. With fun music and easy-to-follow steps, you can’t go wrong. Instructor: Melissa Perez
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Original Monologues with Local Writers
This evening of monologues brings several talented writers to the microphone to read/act out/emote their true tales about a pivotal moment in life. The monologue is an amalgam of the written word and performance, and the form has become an increasingly popular literary/theatrical phenomenon. Expect to hear true stories that are funny, engaging, poignant, memorable, and relatable. When spoken aloud, a writer’s first-person story becomes something else—a monologue that is enacted for an audience. The emphasis for this event is on the quality of the written piece—but told to the audience in a compelling way.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Write with a Group
This event is a writing program for writers of all levels looking to find or keep the momentum to finish their story. Each month, the instructors offer instruction on a different area of writing craft as well as prompts and time to write! Bring a pen, a laptop, or just your ideas! This session will be focused on creating characters. The group will be discussing characterization, description, and complete exercises to help writers develop compelling characters for their stories. Time will be set aside for free writing. Organizers welcome writers of all backgrounds and skill-levels to join us for this event.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Dance Performance | Dance Works-in-Progress
A high visibility low-tech forum for experimentation, emerging ideas, and works-in-progress held in the Fall and Spring seasons. Artists are selected by a rotating committee of peer artists.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Orchestral New Works by American composers
The North/South Chamber Orchestra, directed by Max Lifchitz, performs new works by American composers Munir Beken, Harry Bulow, Andrea Clearfield, and Max Lifchitz.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Retro Music Dance Fitness
Come dance to classic pop tunes: Top 40, Disco, Electronic and more! This class is 45 minutes of peppy beats to enhance your cardio conditioning. A low-impact and fun workout; it is open to any fitness level. Let's dance away blue Monday! Instructor: Patricia Collins
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Contemporary Pieces on Resurrection (In Person AND Online!)
Enjoy two new pieces by emerging composers from the Manhattan School of Music, both themed around "Resurrection." Program: Zeke Morgan KOL Jonathan Gold Vir Heroicus Sublimis
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
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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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