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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.
Objects of Desire Launch Party
Celebrate the release of this sex-cellent anthology comprising photos of adult toys and interviews with industry sexperts—including contributions from the folks at Babeland—by author Rita Catinella Orrell. Nosh on light refreshments, enter your name to win some cheeky products, and pick up a “bedside” table book—and maybe a toy or two—for yourself. Babeland, 43 Mercer St (212-966-2120, eventbrite.com). Thu 31 at 7pm.
Shakespeare vs. Mozart: A Library Debate
Before Captain America vs. Iron Man and Batman vs. Superman, there was an endless debate over which Victorian artist did the most for the human race: musical savant Mozart, or everyone’s favorite bard, Shakespeare. Witness sparks fly among experts from The New Yorker, the Shakespeare Society, the Mostly Mozart Festival and the Mozart Society of America at this historically comprehensive debate night. New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, 40 Lincoln Center Plaza (212-870-1630, nypl.org). Fri 1 at 7pm; Free.
Drink and Draw Like a Lady
Women with a passion for or a career in comics gather to grab a drink and join minds at this charming meet-up before MoCCA Arts Fest hits town on Saturday, 2. The Productive, 40 W 38th St, floor 5 (drinkanddrawlikealady.tumblr.com). Fri 1 7–11:30pm; free.
The Dogist at Kikkerland
This beloved shop celebrates the release of Elias Weiss Friedman’s book of stunning dog photography, The Dogist: Photographic Encounters with 1,000 Dogs, with a book signing and doggy photo shoot! So make sure you bring your furry friend into the store (doggy treats will be provided) for his or her close up. Kikkerland will accept donations for the Liberty Humane Society of Jersey City and Best Friends. Kikkerland, 493 Sixth Ave (212-262-5000, kikkerland.com). Sat 2 at 1pm; free.
Troupe429
Head to the Mayfair’s underground every first Saturday of the month for a relaxed night of crowd-pleasing jams from your favorite divas and queens of the past and present. While Britney, Christina, Left Eye and Aaliyah play all night, revisit classic N64 games (GoldenEye 007, anyone?), snag cheap drink specials and whiskey tastings, and even play some sloppy beer pong. Mayfair New York Times Square, 242 W 49th St (troupe429.com). Sat 2 10pm–3am; free.