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When you live in the most expensive city in America, it can be hard to stick to a budget. Luckily, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking for a concert, art exhibit, comedy show or even a date idea, there are plenty of places to have a good time without paying a dime. Here are the best free parties, cultural events and things to do between now and next Wednesday.
RECOMMENDED: See the full guide to free things to do in NYC
Med Rooftops
Escape NYC and head to the Mediterranean without renewing your passport. You’ll practically feel those sea breezes as you dance the night away atop a West Village roof while slugging down cocktails and munching on seasonal bites—free of charge. A special menu curated by chef Michael White, whose restaurants have earned numerous Michelin stars, includes tastes of Italy, Greece and Spain. The host Gin Mare concocts the beverages. Ramscale Studio, 463 West St (212-206-6580, medrooftops.com). Fri 10 4–6pm, 7–9pm.
Hawaiian Airlines Liberty Challenge
Dust off your Hawaiian shirt, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Pacific Islands from the edge of Manhattan. Hawaiian Airlines is bringing the Liberty Challenge to the Hudson River for an outrigger regatta, during which you can watch teams from around the world compete as you enjoy Polynesian music and dance, food trucks, a beer garden and a traditional Hawaiian luau. Hudson River Park, Pier 26, West St at N Moore St (libertyoutrigger.org). Sat 11 10am–5pm, luau 6–9pm.
Fitbit Local
FYI: It’s not too late to work on your summer body, and this free event hosted by Fitbit Local is a good place to start. This sweat sesh is just the first in a series of free events around the city featuring an all-levels workout that combines boot camp, kickboxing and yoga all in one class. Additionally, a DJ spins the latest hits to keep energy levels high, but the icing on the cake (which will be well-deserved afterward) is the free swag you get for participating. Union Square, 14th St to 17th St between Union Sq West and Park Ave South (fitbit.com). Sun 12 at 9:30am.
Parks and Recreation Trivia
Start getting reacquainted with Pawnee, Indiana now, because your team (up to four people) is going to need some Leslie Knope gusto to dominate Videology Bar and Cinema’s next trivia night exclusively about the hit TV show. The competition includes brainteasers from five categories: clips, pictures, two general knowledge tests and a surprise round. So here’s to hoping your team isn’t full of Jerry types. Videology Bar and Cinema, 308 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn (718-782-3468, videologybarandcinema.com). Sun 12 at 8pm.
Museum Mile Festival
This festival is back for its 38th year, which turns Fifth Avenue into the city’s largest block party. Live music and entertainment flood the streets while museums open their doors to the public at no charge. This year’s participants include Museum of the City of New York, the Jewish Museum, Cooper Hewitt, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Neue Galerie New York and more. Museum Mile, Fifth Ave between 82nd and 105th Sts (212-606-2296, museummilefestival.com). Tue 14 6–9pm.