What’s Free to do in New York, the Week of December 19-21
Poetry, jazz, art talks, competitive Super Smash Bros. and more in this week’s line-up of free weekend activities in New York City.
Photo from Eventbrite.
If this week has felt like one long month, this edition of What’s Free is for you. Packed with stuff to do, whether you’re looking to find holiday cheer or just enjoy some art and socializing, this week, there’s a little something for everyone. Find free jazz, live poetry, a game night with cash prizes, and something called a “Stitch and Bitch,” this weekend—all free and all right outside your doorstep (give or take).
Manhattan
NYSoM Holiday Mania 2025
Saturday, Dec. 20, 2-5 p.m., 2017 1st Ave.
Get all your holiday cheer in one place. This extravaganza, put on by New York State of Mind (NYSoM), includes Kwanzaa Village, Hanukkah Town, karaoke, gift giveaways, and more.
Jordan Casteel & Elizabeth Alexander in Conversation
Saturday, Dec. 20, 1 p.m., Casey Kaplan Gallery
Renowned artist Jordan Casteel presents her latest exhibition, Covering the holes in our walls with sunflowers, which is on view through January 10th. Join a conversation between Casteel and New York Times best-selling author Elizabeth Alexander.
Make Music NY: Voices From the Village
Sunday, Dec. 21, 3-5 p.m., Ginjan Cafe
Catch a vibe and a free show at this celebration presented by Make Music New York. Enjoy jazz, poetry, drumming, and more at a cozy cafe in Harlem. All ages welcome.
Sunday Jazz at Sour Mouse
Sunday, Dec. 21, 3-7 p.m., 110 Delancey Street
Free jazz at an underground social club. Spend some time on the Lower East Side to close out the weekend.
Brooklyn
Winter Wonderland Food Pop Up
Saturday, Dec. 20, 1-5 p.m., Japan Village
Celebrating the opening of Yokocho Alley, enjoy ramen, oden, s’mores, tree lighting, and DIY ornament making. Bring the friends, bring the kids, and come hungry.
Game Night: CTRL + Fun
Saturday, Dec. 20, 6-11 p.m., The Tiny Cupboard Comedy Club & Board Game Bar
A little friendly competition never hurt. Bring your A-game and enjoy a night of Bingo, Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros., and more. Win cash prizes and free drinks.
Lez Craft: Stitch and Bitch
Friday, Dec. 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 484 14th Street
If you’re crafty or just tired of using your hands to doom scroll, slide through to this open community craft night. BYOC and supplies, some patterns, hooks, and yarn are available.
Free Coffee Tasting
Saturday, Dec. 20, 10-11 a.m., Devoción
Local, farm-to-cup coffee on tap at this Colombia-founded cafe in Williamsburg. Meet other coffee enthusiasts and enjoy a warm boost to start your day.
Queens
Verse4Verse: Drag + Poetry
Sunday, Dec. 21, 6-8 p.m., 60-47 Myrtle Ave
Part drag show, part open mic, come see New York's only drag-poetry show hosted by Poison Oak at Dada bistro-bar.
Bronx
Cat and Kitten Adoption Event
Sunday, Dec. 21, 2-5 p,m., Mothers On The Move
If you’re still waiting for the cat distribution network to find you, it might be time to take a proactive approach. Bring a fur baby home soon at this kitty meet-and-greet. Also accepting pet food donations.
