UPDATE: September has arrived, bringing a wave of *free* activities that residents can enjoy before fall transitions into winter. With *Labor Day* falling on *September 1*, now is the time to seize these incredible opportunities.
As the warm days dwindle, cities across the country are buzzing with excitement over an array of *free shows, exhibitions, and outdoor activities*. Highlights include unique performances, engaging workshops, and lively festivals—perfect for making unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.
At the *Cathedral of St. John the Divine*, catch the *final performances* of the gospel-infused musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Pericles.” The last shows take place on *Monday, September 1*, and *Tuesday, September 2*, starting at *8 p.m.* This is your last chance to experience this extraordinary production!
On *Thursday, September 4*, the *South Street Seaport* will feature a thrilling tightrope act by acrobat *Tatiana-Mosio Bongonga*, followed by the *French acrobat troupe Compagnie Basinga*. Enjoy these spectacular performances beginning at *6 p.m.* Advance registration is recommended. Then, on *Sunday, September 7*, join the lively sea shanty singalong from *2 to 4 p.m.*—a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Dance enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the *Works & Process dance series* at *Manhattan West*, running every *Wednesday in September*. Each week features a different dance style, starting with *Latin Hustle* on *September 3* at *5 p.m.* Be sure to check out the subsequent themes which include swing, salsa, and line dancing.
In *Williamsburg*, enjoy a staged reading of *Molière’s “The Imaginary Invalid”* presented by *Molière in the Park* on *Friday, September 26*, and *Saturday, September 27*, both at *7 p.m.* This is an exciting chance to witness free theater in a new location.
Additionally, the *Creative Stage Collective* promises laughter with their *2025 Summer Shebang*, a free musical sketch comedy revue taking place at various city locations throughout September. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this hilarious experience!
Food lovers will delight in the *Feast of San Gennaro*, which kicks off on *September 11* and runs through *September 21* in *Little Italy*. Experience the rich aromas of traditional Italian food and vibrant performances as the neighborhood transforms into a pedestrian haven. Even if you just stroll through, it’s an event that captures the essence of September.
Literary fans, rejoice! The *20th Brooklyn Book Festival*, the city’s largest free literary festival, runs from *September 14 to 22*. This is a fantastic opportunity to attend workshops and readings across all five boroughs without spending a dime.
Music lovers can experience a special concert at the *Central Library in Jamaica, Queens*, on *Saturday, September 6*, from *2 to 3:30 p.m.* featuring *Yaacov Mayman’s Super-Hot Afro-Latin Jazz Band*. The group will explore the influence of jazz legend *Dizzy Gillespie* in a performance that is sure to be memorable.
For those seeking adventure, the *Urban Park Rangers* will host urban campouts in *Blue Heron Park* on *Staten Island* and *Pelham Bay Park* in the Bronx on *Friday, September 19*. Registration opens on *September 10*, so act fast to secure your spot.
Nature enthusiasts can join the *Fantastic Fungi Hike* in *Staten Island’s Greenbelt* on *Sunday, September 27*, at *10:30 a.m.*, where participants will learn about mushrooms in a hands-on exploration of the area’s natural beauty.
Lastly, don’t miss the *Yes Block Party* in *Bushwick*, taking place on *Sunday, September 21*, from *noon to 6 p.m.* This vibrant event will feature music, art, and dancing, culminating in a free afterparty at *House of Yes* for the over 21 crowd.
These *free* events offer an ideal way to close out summer and embrace the arrival of fall. Don’t wait—share this list with your friends and make the most of September’s offerings!
