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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
ORI Moonlight Market
Enter a Brooklyn warehouse turned circus arena for this inventive market. Shop for one-of-a-kind leather and fabric costumes, along with jewelry and art from some of Brooklyn’s most inventive creators. Get down to live music, receive henna hand tattoos, try acroyoga, and enjoy drinks served by an aerial bartender. Lot 45, 411 Troutman St, Brooklyn (347-505-9155, facebook.com/events/orimoonlightmarket). Wed 3 7–11pm.
Star Wars Day Trivia
In celebration of Star Wars Day on Thursday 4 (as in…May the Fourth be with you), Trivia AD salutes the most beloved cinematic epic of all time. Study the droids, spaceships, Wookies and star systems from Rogue One, the original trilogy and The Force Awakens to survive this fan battle that’s worthy of only the greatest Jedi masters. Don’t accept any drinks from Greedo, and be sure to avoid any questions about the prequel trilogy…it’s a trap! Stone Creek Bar and Lounge, 140 E 27th St (212-532-1037, triviaad.com). Thu 4 8–9:30pm.
Free Comic Book Day
Just about every comic-book shop in NYC—from Mama Says Comics Rock in Brooklyn to Magnum Comics in the Bronx—opens its doors and invites you to pick up free editions of classic series and indie gems. Check out freecomicbookday.com to find a store near you and catch special events like the cosplay contest at Anyone Comics Brooklyn. It’s a perfect way to get caught up before the likes of Wonder Woman and Spider-Man hit the big screen this summer. Various Locations (freecomicbookday.com). Sat 6 at various times.
Bronx Book Fair
The theme for the fifth edition of this massive community festival is “Building the Bronx’s Literary Future,” and the event packs a full day of speakers, activities and opportunities to hear about learning and literacy in the borough. Check out talks from The New Yorker’s incoming poetry editor Kevin Young, bookstore Lit Bar’s owner Noëlle Santos and more; pick up books from more than 30 vendors; and head to workshops like “Zine Publishing and Beyond.” Bronx Library Center, 310 E Kingsbridge Rd (718-579-4244, nypl.org). Sat 6 11am–7pm.
Pen Parentis Salon Spring Grand Finale
Literary nonprofit Pen Parentis, which provides space where writers can create after they’ve started a family, hosts this live reading event featuring four celebrated local authors. Enjoy complimentary wine and network with other book fiends while New York writers Alice Kaltman, Kristopher Jansma, John Freeman Gill and Stewart Lewis read from and sign their books, discuss their creative processes and mingle with fans. Andaz Wall Street, 75 Wall St (212-590-1234, penparentis.org). Tue 9 7–9:30pm.