What’s Free?: 10 Things to Do in NYC This Weekend That Don't Cost a Dime
This weekend, celebrating NYC bodegas, grown-up show-and-tell, giant monster sculptures, an F1 watch party, Studio Ghibli therapy, and more, are all free.
An image from Tyler Mitchell's Ghost Images collection, on display at Gagosian through April 5.
Getty Images stock photo.
Just because the calendar tells us that this is the most expensive time of the year doesn’t mean we have to believe it. Save your coins for rent this week and support one of the many free happenings in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and (yes) Staten Island. From a baby and maternity clothing swap to a free silk screening workshop to a community run that supports an award-winning documentary film—there’s a little something for everyone and every budget.
Manhattan
Fridays on the Patio: Celebrating New York’s Bodegas
Friday, Nov. 21, 3 - 5 p.m.
This cultural series from NYU offers hands-on programming open to the community. This week, it’s a celebration of the spaces that help keep the city going—our bodegas. See screenings, play with therapy cats and dogs, and enjoy some light refreshments.
GR Gallery Presents: Shoko Nakazawa’s KEIKAI
Friday, Nov. 21, 6 - 8 p.m. (opening), 116 Chambers Street, 2F
Japanese artist Shoko Nakazawa debuts her first solo exhibit with GR Gallery, including oil paintings, polystone sculpture, and her signature Kaiju—giant monsters from Japanese pop culture. The exhibit will run through December 28th, so there’s still time if you miss it this weekend.
The Parent Loop’s Maternity Clothing Swap
Saturday, Nov. 22, 10 - 11:30 a.m., 225 West 99th Street
Swap out your baby’s unworn-but-over-priced threads for something they will ultimately spill grape juice on. This swap is for maternity and post-partum clothes as well as newborn and baby clothes. Show up to swap, browse, or donate.
Kids Storytime at Strand
Saturday, Nov. 22, 11 a.m., 828 Broadway
Come to a holiday storytime for kids of all ages at the Union Square Strand bookstore featuring authors Claire Tattersfield and Rob Sayegh Jr. as they read their book Cupig Saves Christmas.
Brooklyn
Barchives 31: BYOArchives
Sunday, Nov. 23, 2 - 4 p.m., 618 Saint John’s Place
Remember show-and-tell; when you would force a room of people to listen to your story about some raggedy teddy bear you love? Imagine that, but with drinks and good (and better stories). Bring your own archive item, but please make it good.
Remaining Native & The Life We Have Community Run
Saturday, Nov. 22, 8:30 - 11 a.m., 266 Adelphi Street
Support an incredible indigenous film and get your heart rate up. This weekend, a community run presented by DeFine Running supports the NYC theatrical release of Remaining Native, a documentary film about a native teen who uses running to process his family’s tragic past.
Queens
Movie Night: Studio Ghibli’s Boy and the Heron
Sunday, Nov. 23, 8 - 9 p.m., 1019 Seneca Ave
A new study has shown that watching Studio Ghibli films can improve your mental health. So consider this free movie night therapy. Bring your own friends, snacks, and blankets, and enjoy some cartoony wellness.
F1 Watch Party: Las Vegas Grand Prix
Saturday, Nov. 22, 11 p.m. to Nov. 23, 1 a.m., 582 Seneca Ave
F1 fans unite at the Seneca this weekend for an annual race-day watch party. DJ sets begin at 9 pm, but the race kicks off at 11. Come dressed in your best team gear.
Staten Island
The People’s Press: Free Silk Screening Workshop
Saturday, Nov. 22, 1 - 4 p.m., 450 Front Street
Bring your own shirt (or tote) and learn how to create a silk screen, presented by The People’s Press as they take a stand against censorship.
Panel Discussion: Starting and Maintaining Your DJ Career
Sunday, Nov. 23, 2 - 4 p.m., 450 Front Street, Unit A
If you’re a novice or aspiring DJ, this is a great opportunity to hear insights from a panel of 10 DJs who have paved a career out of their craft. Open to anyone 15 and over.
