Field Trip for Grownups, Ugly Sweater Parties, and How to Turn Your Family’s Legacy Into Poetry
This weekend, there’s lots to do, especially for the arts-and-crafty. We got you covered on activities in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx that don’t have to cost a dime.
Stock Image,
RyanJLane
For those planning to gift-give this holiday season, the streets are filled with artisan markets and pop-up shopping events, but you won’t find any of that on this week’s What’s Free. While it’s nearly impossible to avoid spending a single dime in New York, especially in December, there’s plenty to do that won’t break the bank. This weekend, choose from an adult field trip to the Brooklyn Museum, an intimate live show, a bring-what-you-have craft party, a workshop that helps you tell your family’s story, and more.
Manhattan
Ugly Sweater Holiday Party
Sunday, DEC. 14, 3-10 pm, The Hudson
Live merengue, ugly holiday fits, and a toy drive for the kids. Come dance to live music and kick off the holiday season without worrying about looking cool.
Moonworld World Trade Center Art Fair
Sunday, DEC. 14, 12-8 pm, The Canvas 3.0
Browse fine art spanning handmade work to interactive installations. If you’re feeling froggy, every $25 spent scores you free drinks and raffle tickets.
Sage Solaris Presents: Solar Ascension
Friday, DEC. 12, 8-9:30 pm, NYU Paulson Center, Studio G
NYU alum and singer, Sage Solaris, performs an intimate set this weekend. Grab a friend (or a date) and fill your celestial cup while supporting a local artist.
Brooklyn
Wasted Feelings
Saturday, DEC. 13, 6-9 pm, The Brooklyn Wellness Club
Artist Medina Candase exhibits a collection that speaks to loss and grief after heartbreak while considering how we decide what we value and what we waste. Enjoy a show and a curated conversation.
Opening Reception: A Reprieve
Sunday, DEC. 14, 4-6 pm, Kunstraum LLC
This group exhibit, which runs at Kunstraum for about a month, is very on-brand. Seven artists explore how we recover from overstimulation and pressure. Attend the opening for wine and discussion.
Nolo Presents: Saturday Night Open Mic
Sunday, DEC. 14, 3-6 pm, Captain Kirk’s Comedy Lounge
Wrap up the weekend with some laughs at this Sunday evening line-up of comics. Must be 21 or over, doors open at 2:45 pm.
Queens
Pokémon Market Pop-up
Saturday, DEC. 13, 12-7 pm, 41-11 39th Street
Open to all ages, this pop-up market features Pokémon collectibles, art, trading, and more. Bring the kids or your own nerdy ambitions and enjoy games and refreshments.
Spare Arts Holiday Craft Party
Saturday, DEC. 13, 3-5 pm, Pancake Records
Avoiding holiday commerce this year? Make your own memorable gifts instead at this holiday craft party. Bring your own supplies or choose from Spare Art’s selections.
Bronx
Ancestral Maps: A Poetic Visual Journey with Kay Poema
Sunday, DEC. 14, 12-2 pm, BxArts Factory
A workshop that celebrates your own family legacy and turns your lineage into poetry. Led by poet and writer Kay Poema.
