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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: Guide to free things to do in NYC
Humans Against Music Karaoke
Prove that you really know your Carly Rae Jepsen lyrics at this old-fashioned karaoke jam, where you won’t have a teleprompter to guide you, just a piece of paper and some musical accompaniment courtesy of wisecracking sound engineers H-Bomb and Tokyo Rosenberg. With more than 1,000 tracks to choose from, you’re sure to find that one ballad you love to belt. Impressive crooners can compete to win a jar of Krakus Canned Ham—and eternal glory. Freddy’s Bar, 627 Fifth Ave (718-768-0131, freddysbar.com). Wed 17 9–11:30pm.
Movies with a View: A League of Their Own
Get cozy on the grass and watch Geena Davis, Madonna and Rosie O’Donnell form an all-woman team and tear down the boys’ club of baseball in this WWII-set classic. Before the Rockford Peaches go to bat, you can chill out to beats by No Wahala DJs and check out a short film presented by BAMcinématek. Show up early to reserve a good spot, and make sure to keep your tissues hidden: You know what they say about crying and baseball. Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 1, Old Fulton St at Water St (brooklynbridgepark.org). Thu 18 6–9pm.
Game of Thrones Trivia
Contrary to Cersei Lannister’s opinion, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to trivia of HBO’s addictive TV series. The obsessive folks from Trivia AD are throwing the gauntlet with five brutal rounds of Westerosi trivia, so ready a team of up to four fans, and make sure you’ve read up on dragon etymology, Valyrian steel swords and Wildling tribes if you want to walk out with your dignity (and all your limbs). Strategize like a Lannister, but try not to drink like one. Gotham Bistro, 326 W 40th St (917-351-4912, triviaad.com). Thu 18 at 8pm; register online.
Summer Streets
Why stay home with your window unit when you can make Manhattan your own personal playground? It’s your last chance of the summer to run wild on closed-down and souped-up avenues, compliments of the city, so pack the sunscreen and snacks and get ready for cycling, running, soccer and water-sliding in the middle of the street. If you don’t want to exert yourself too much, you can check out pop-up theater and interactive art along the way. Between Lafayette St and Park Ave from the Brooklyn Bridge to E 72nd St (nyc.gov). Sat 20 7am–1pm.
Party Like It’s 1999: Bonus Summer Edition
If you missed this bumpin’ bash on the first Saturday of August, the Bell House is giving you another chance to rage to Aqua, Garbage, TLC and beyond. Brooklyn’s DJ Steve spins your favorite rock, pop, R&B, hip-hop and dance tunes from the decade, so lace up your Dr. Martens, put on a backward cap, and tie your dad’s oversize flannel around your waist to look the part while you shake your rump like it’s, well, 1999. The Bell House, 149 7th St, Brooklyn (thebellhouseny.com,718-643-6510). Sat 20 at 10pm.