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When you live in NYC, 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
Purple Rain
The hair. The music. The puffy shirts. Revisit Prince’s violent, crazy and romantic 1984 film debut about a scrappy singer called the Kid who tries to make it as a star in Minneapolis with his band, the Revolution. Hit the Bazaar’s restaurant for all-American dishes like the BBQ cheeseburger and the chili Frito pie, but be ready to sing along to some of the movie’s classic numbers, including “I Would Die 4 U” and “When Doves Cry.” Brooklyn Bazaar, 150 Greenpoint Ave (bkbazaar.com). Wed 10 at 8pm.
Artists & Fleas Soho
After dominating Chelsea Market, Williamsburg and even Los Angeles, this stellar local emporium begins a daily residency in Soho. Every other week, more than 40 new artists and creators set up shop and display their wares. Peruse vintage jewelry from Brooklyn Bleu, rare LPs from Eat Records, oils and balms from Real Bearded Men and even selections from Strand Book Store. 568 Broadway (917-488-4203, artistsandfleas.com). Wed–Mon 10am–8pm. Opens Fri 12.
Dirty Thursday: ’90s Night
Travel back in time, get into the groove, and lose your voice belting out legendary jams like Salt-n-Pepa's "None of Your Business" at this outrageous Bushwick dance party. Wear neon-splattered denims, oversized flanels or patent leather bodysuits to win free drinks and eternal dance-floor glory (or, if you win over the bartenders, that tends to work, too). Spandex is sweat-proof, right? House of Yes, 2 Wyckoff Ave (houseofyes.org). Thu 11 at 10pm.
Japan Day
This celebration of Japanese food and culture returns to Central Park. The festivities kick off at 8am with the Japan Day Run, a four-mile dash through the park. Afterward, the party continues with performances from Harlem Japanese Gospel Choir, Soh Daiko and more. During the shows, you can try your skills at calligraphy and indulge in gyoza and okonomiyaki. Naumburg Bandshell, Central Park; midpark from 66th St to 72nd St (212-501-7809, japandaynyc.org). Sun 14: run 8–9:30am, event 9:30am–4pm.
Grand Bazaar NYC
Spend a Sunday afternoon browsing the wares of local artists, designers and vintage dealers at this weekly market. It's a great place to pick up limited-edition art, handmade jewelry, unique home furnishings and tasty artisanal treats. Plus, 100% of the bazaar's net revenue is donated to four neighborhood public schools, so no risk of buyer's remorse here. Grand Bazaar NYC, 100 W 77th St (grandbazaarnyc.org). Sun 14 10am–5:30pm.