- ABOUT
- CONTACT
- FAQ
- REVIEWS
- GIVE A GIFT OF CFT!
-
Join the Club!
free things to do in New York City
| < | August 2026 |
> | ||||
| Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ||||||
| 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 |
| 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 |
| 30 | 31 | |||||
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, August 9, 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 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
August 9, 2026. 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, August 9, 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, August 9, 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 New York City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (August 9, 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 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).
36 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Sunday, August 9, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park
Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
8:00 am
Free
Free
Tour | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial
This complimentary shuttle loops through more than 30 locations across Lower Manhattan, covering major sites from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Financial District and the World Trade Center area. Busses arrive about every 15 minutes throughout the day. Riders can board or exit at any marked stop, with unlimited trips at no cost. Dayly service.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking on the Hudson
A welcoming public kayaking experience and see New York City from the water. Guests will receive basic paddling and safety instruction, be fitted with safety gear, and paddle in a protected area with trained volunteers nearby. No experience is needed, and children are welcome with a parent or guardian. Guests must know how to swim. First-come, first-served, sign-up line often closes early due to high demand.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:00 am
Free
Free
Screening | Most Watched International Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Golf & More
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 12:00pm ESPN Ocho: The Ocho Show
12:00pm - 1:00pm Little League Softball World Series
1:00pm - 3:00pm PGA Wyndham Championship
3:00pm - 4:00pm ESPN Ocho: Ultimate Frisbee
4:00pm - 9:00pm ESPN Ocho: The Ocho Show
*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
Join the Club!
10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday Fun at an Iconic Art Museum
Enjoy a full day of art and inspiration on the second Sunday of every month! Explore exhibitions, join family-friendly artmaking activities inspired by works on view, listen to storytimes presented by The New York Public Library, take part in guided tours, and soak in stunning city views.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Tai Chi in the Garden
Start your Sunday with a peaceful Tai Chi session, led by Tai Chi Solution. This gentle movement practice promotes balance, focus, and relaxation in a calm garden setting. All levels welcome.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:30 am
pay-what-you-wish, $15 suggested...
pay-what-you-wish, $15 suggested...
Park Walk | Walk along the East River: Learn about History, Architecture, & Ecology
Experienced park docents lead a walking tour to explore the history of the Brooklyn waterfront, the area's sustainable design and ecology, and how the park came to life!
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
10:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities
Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park
A welcome multi-level yoga class in the park open to everyone. Bring your own mat.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
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
Join the Club!
11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Workshop | Play the Creative Word Game Scrabble in the Park
Sit for a spell and play a game of Scrabble!
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
11:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday at a Unique Art Museum
Candid, genuine, and unexpected, this is New York City's only museum dedicated to folk & self-taught artists. The Museum celebrates the creativity of individuals whose singular talents have been refined largely through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. The museum's collection includes more than seven thousand works of art from four centuries and nearly every continent--from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works by living artists in a variety of mediums. From critically acclaimed exhibitions and publications to inspiring educational programs and robust community outreach, the museum's mission is to be the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
11:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | An Afternoon of in New York Harbor
At this community session, after a brief orientation, participants will be assigned to a crew with an experienced coxswain to steer the boat and a mixture of experienced and new rowers. The boats, Whitehall gigs, are stable, traditional working boats for four rowers and a coxswain. No experience is necessary and rowers of all ability levels are welcome! The rowing sessions last several hours and are designed to be excursions: groups row against the tide to a destination, take a break onshore or in a protected cove, then return home with the tide. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please complete the waiver before
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
12:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Family Kayaking on the East River
Glide along the water this summer in an East River embayment with a kayaking session! All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers -- life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. This program is specifically geared for kids and families, allowing younger paddlers to go solo in single kayaks! Kids aged 7 and older can paddle solo (as long as a guardian is present) thanks to additional on-water safety boaters from The Kayak Foundation who are specially trained to work with kids. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Register for a 20-minute time slot. Please note this event is subject to change due to weather or other extenuating circumstances
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
12:00 pm
Free
Free
Festival | Harlem Music & Food Fest
The opening of the International Village that features vendors and exhibitors with items for sale, ranging from arts & crafts, jewelry, clothing, unique accessories, international foods, and more. Stage entertainment begins at 1 PM and is presented in segments:
Artz, Rootz & Rhythm featuring local, community and emerging performers of varying genres.
The Gospel Caravan featuring local, national and international gospel performers with a special tribute to Richard Smallwood
Concert Under Under the Stars featuring national and international performers.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
12:00 pm
Free
Free
Festival | Japanese Buddhist Festival Celebrating Cultural Traditions
This event features traditional Obon circle dancing, powerful Taiko drumming, origami activities for children, and other cultural festivities. Everyone is encouraged to join in the celebration of remembrance, joy, and togetherness.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
12:00 pm
Free
Free
Park Walk | Women's Walk in the Park
This group brings together women from all walks of life to bond, exercise, and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Hundreds of women of all different ages and backgrounds meet to simply go for a walk in Central Park. About 80% of the women show up alone, so feel free to give it a try! You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
12:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Community Book Trade: Bring a Book, Take a Book, & Discuss Your Favorite Reads
Bring a book, take a book - or books! Need something to read this Summer? Come and browse, and meet your neighbors!
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Exploring the History of American Labor Movements & U.S. Chinatowns: Documentary & Conversation with Experts
Starting from NYC's Chinatown History Episode 2--A Community Takes Root, this event examines various West or East Coast labor movements in US past and present. What movements in U.S. history won the worker protections we rely on today, and what do we stand to lose if we fail to protect them? This event is part of a cross-cultural storytelling series exploring the people and movements that have shaped America. This episode follows how early 20th-century Chinese immigrants built community, leadership, and businesses in Chinatown. The screening will be followed by a conversation with labor organizers and policy experts Maria Kercado and Matt Gonzalez, moderated by workers' rights attorney Dean Hubbard. Actor Cheryl Cochran will bring to life the story of one of the largest and least-known labor strikes in American history. Through film, storytelling, and conversation, the group will explore resilience, solidarity, and the collective action that continues to shape our communities today.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove
This event provides the equipment, instruction, and oversight you need to experience a safe and fun afternoon of kayaking on the Hudson River. The program is beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or guardian) and know how to swim. Come dressed to get wet! Lockers and locks will be provided to keep valuables dry, and on-site changing rooms will be available for use. To save time, you can also sign a waiver before arriving to save time, available at the link provided. Be sure to allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit. You may not get a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before the boathouse closes.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
1:00 pm
Free
Free
Musical | The Root of It All: A Dentist's Tale -- Surreal, Satirical Comedy Musical (Outdoors)
In a fantastical dream, the dentist enters a surreal world where dancing teeth, an activist Tooth Fairy, and a chorus of very "patient" patients battle the moral decay threatening America's ideals. With ICE agents emerging from giant cavities as symbols of fear and division, the dentist envisions a quest to "root out" hatred instead of people. A brigade of unlikely heroes invokes the nation's immigrant heritage-from its earliest settlers to generations of newcomers-celebrating America's diversity, compassion, and shared humanity. The historic wisdom of the United States promises a future in which the cavities of war are filled with hope and the promise of cooperation and peace. The community awakens from its nightmare inspired and unites to protect its neighbors and secure the child's release. The music will vary in style from Bossa Nova to Hip Hop to Musical Comedy to classical Cantata. The play is a bouncy joyride through the undulations of the body politic, with astute commentary couched in satire, song, and slapstick. Book, lyrics, and direction by Crystal Field. Music composed and arranged by Peter Dizozza.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
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
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists
Berta Indeed presents a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. Seating is limited, unreserved, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Music Festival in the Park: Salsa, R&B, & Jazz Duo
This festival brings the best local talent to the stage each summer, filling the park with music and movement. Bring your friends, family, and dance moves--all ages are welcome! This performance features Latin music husband-and-wife duo Uptown Royalty. Uptown Royalty delivers a dynamic, genre-defying fusion of salsa, R&B, and jazz, creating a sound that has been noted as both timeless and electrifying.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Music on the Water: Beethoven's Piano Sonatas
Jeffrey Swann, piano. All-Beethoven (1770-1827) Program: Sonata in A-flat Major, Op. 26 ("Funeral March") Sonata No. 1 in E-flat Major ("Quasi una Fantasia") Sonata No. 2 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 ("Moonlight") Sonata in D Major, Op. 28 ("Pastorale")
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:00 pm
Free
Free
Book Discussion | Book Talk with the Author: Was It Just a Matter of Luck?
In Was it Just a Matter of Luck? Dr. Charles Kaner weaves an unflinching, moving account of his family's survival during the Holocaust with the story of how those memories - and his mother's fierce devotion to testimony - helped shape a new era of remembrance in America. At the heart of the narrative stands his mother, Ray Kaner, whose courage, intelligence, and will to live carried her through the ghetto and the horrors of Auschwitz, Hamburen, and Bergen-Belsen. Ray and Charles will discuss her life and the book.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
2:30 pm
donations suggested, tickets...
donations suggested, tickets...
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
Join the Club!
3:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Creative Writing Session: Practice the Craft
Become a better writer! Suitable for all levels.
Writing exercises
Personal attention
Peer Workshop
Guest Lectures
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
4:00 pm
Free
Free
Poetry Reading | An Evening of Poetry in the Garden
Enjoy an outdoor poetry reading hosted in partnership with McNally Jackson. Submit your work at the link provided to read at the event!
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. 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
Join the Club!
5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
5:30 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Play | The Dancing Men: Sherlock Holmes Mystery in the Park
Hilton Cubitt seeks the help of Sherlock Holmes when he comes across a series of mysterious stick figure drawings resembling "dancing men" about his garden. These drawings are linked to his wife, Elsie Patrick, an American woman who harbors a secret past. Holmes needs to decipher these "dancing men" before tragedy strikes. Written by Susane Lee, adapted from the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Directors: Susane Lee and Nicholas Martin-Smith.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
6:30 pm
Free
Free
7:00 pm
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Concert | Live Acoustic Evening
Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Joey Ama Dio.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy
When the King of Sicilia becomes convinced his pregnant wife has been unfaithful, the royal baby is smuggled to the coast of Bohemia where an old shepherd finds her and renames her Perdita. Sixteen years later, Perdita falls in love with another young shepherd, Doricles, who turns out to be a prince in disguise. Honesty is a fool and true love the only answer in this mysterious, romantic tale of defiance and destiny. Written by William Shakespeare. Choreography by Mimi Lieber. Directed by Daniel Sullivan. Cast: Heschel Bay, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Teagle F. Bougere, Chuck Cooper, Peter Douskalis, Matthew Eby, Raúl Esparza, Isabela Ferrer, Katie Griffith, Alex Hernandez,
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
Free
Free
Join the Club!
Complimentary Tickets
to shows, concerts ... (CFT Deals!)
Concert | Oscar and Grammy Nominee at One of the World's Most Famous Venues
Regular Price: $45CFT Member Price: $0.00
Today's Events
All 1030 Events
Events This Week
Events This Weekend
Contact FAQ Reviews About Terms of Use Privacy Policy
All events are free unless otherwise stated. All programs subject to change. Please confirm before going.Contact FAQ Reviews About Terms of Use Privacy Policy
© Copyright Club Free Time. All rights reserved.