[title]
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 good time without paying a dime. Here are the best free parties, cultural events and things to do between now and next Wednesday.
RECOMMENDED: Free things to do in NYC guide
The Gaits Soundscape 2016
The High Line transforms into a vibrant musical fantasy thoroughfare worthy of the Yellow Brick Road during this innovative experience. Upon downloading the app Gaits, your phone’s accelerator projects your movements and footsteps in sounds of splashes, honks, crackles and claps. Once you join the walk, the sounds—composed by Lainie Fefferman, Jascha Narveson and Cameron Britt—create a magical effect. Gansevoort Plaza, 38 Gansevoort St (212-500-6035, thehighline.org). Wed 21 5–6:30pm.
Discotechnique: Holiday Disco
Serving glittery holiday realness, House of Yes hosts the holiday disco party of your dreams. It takes place right after the House of Yes Xmas Spectacular, so arrive early—before 11pm—for free admission. Come for the Fabtastic Photobooth and stay for the Mistletoe Makeout booth. House of Yes, 2 Wyckoff Ave (houseofyes.org). Fri 23 10pm–4am; before 11pm free.
K2 Friday Nights
The Rubin Museum of Art goes all out for its Friday-night celebrations. At 6pm, Café Serai becomes the K2 Lounge where you can enjoy Pan-Asian tapas and a drink while jamming to sets from DJ $mall ¢hange and Anaïs Mitchell (Friday 23) and Brooklyn Raga Massive with Román Díaz (Friday 30). After the party, head to the cabaret cinema for screenings and talks on revered gems like Show Boat (Friday 23) and the upsetting Animal Farm (Friday 30). 150 W 17th St (212-620-5000, rubinmuseum.org). Fri 23, 30; 6pm–midnight.
Sex and the City Trivia
Manolo Blahniks. Post-it breakups. Pee-playing politicians. If the adventures, romances and fashion choices of Carrie, Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte still feel like scripture to you, gather your own NYC foursome for five rounds of intense trivia at Poco Restaurant & Bar. Time to rewatch the whole series (and a movie). Poco Bar, 33 Ave B (212-228-4461, triviaad.com). Tue 27 8–9:30pm; free.
The Dump! Open Mic Storytelling Show
The Creek and the Cave gives you eight minutes to rid yourself of some of your ghastliest memories at this cathartic storytelling event. With no prompts or judges, share your secret tales of summer-camp heartbreak and music festival STDs among tipsy friends and storytellers. The Creek and the Cave, 10-93 Jackson Ave (718-706-8783, creeklic.com). Tue 27 at 8pm; free.