Theater
How to get free Shakespeare in the Park tickets
This year, securing free tickets to the beloved production looks slightly different than usual. Let us give you some details.
Every summer, the Public Theater produces a beloved NYC democratic tradition and one of the best free things to do in NYC: Shakespeare in the Park, presented at the open-air Delacorte Theater in Central Park. There’s nothing quite like hearing the Bard’s immortal words performed outside in New York, with a backdrop of natural splendor and the Belvedere Castle looming in the background like the world’s most impressive set decoration. The Delacorte was closed for much-needed renovations in 2024, but returned last year. The popularity of the series means that tickets aren’t always easy to come by—but if you persevere, you can get seats.
What is Shakespeare in the Park?
Created by the late Joseph Papp in 1962, the Public Theater's series offers free, large-scale productions of works by William Shakespeare (as well as the occasional musical or non-Shakespearean drama). The productions often feature some of the most talented actors of our day. Past casts have included including Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Al Pacino, Philip Seymour Hoffman, George C. Scott and Denzel Washington.
What is being performed this season?
Shakespeare in the Park seasons usually include two productions. The first this year is the teen-romance tragedy Romeo and Juliet, staged by Public Theater resident director Saheem Ali with a cast that includes aniel Bravo Hernández, Ra’Mya Latiah Aikens, Deirdre O'Connell, Francis Jue and LaChanze. The second is The Winter's Tale, a sweeping story of jealousy, love, repentance, angry bears and magic statuary, directed by Shakesperare in the Park veteran Daniel Sullivan.
When is Shakespeare in the Park?
The 2026 Shakespeare in the Park production of Romeo and Juliet begins perfomances on May 22 and runs through June 28. The Winter's Tale follows from July 25 through August 23. Performances are at 8pm daily from Tuesday through Sunday.
When should I go?
If possible, shoot for the first week of performances—seats are always in greater supply early in the run of a show, before reviews and word of mouth have pushed up demand for tickets. Another good way to increase your odds, paradoxically, is to attend on days when bad weather is predicted. (The standby line may be your best bet for tickets that day.) The Public hates canceling Shakespeare in the Park, so the show will go on even if it is drizzling; often, performances will take breaks if it gets too rainy, then resume when the downpour subsides. Open umbrellas are not allowed during performances, so be sure to bring a poncho. Tickets for rained-out shows are not exchangeable.
How can I get tickets?
The transitional way to score tickets to Shakespeare in the Park is by lining up in person at the Delacorte on the day of the show. But thanks to advances in ticketing technology, there are actually now six different ways to get tickets, including a digital lottery. Consult our complete instructions on how to get free tickets to Shakespeare in the Park or a guide to these options.
How do I get there?
The easiest way to get to the Delacorte Theater in Central Park is to enter at 81st Street and Central Park West. Take the B or C train to 81st St–Museum of Natural History.
What mask safety measures are in place at Shakespeare in the Park?
Masks are welcome but not required.
Are there other free productions of Shakespeare in New York this summer?
Indeed there are, all over the city, including one overseen by another wing of the Public Theater: the Mobile Unit's As You Like It. For details, check out our guide to free outdoor theater in the summer.
