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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
Golden Girls Trivia
Roll up your polyester sleeves, slice into some cheesecake, and study your Sicily stories for this night of Golden Girls fan adoration that’s more fun than a game of Gugenspritzer. With rounds of clips, images and Miami minutiae, you’ll have to prove your knowledge of Blanche’s many men and Rose’s history of St. Olaf, Minnesota, or else you might be left out on the lanai. Stone Creek Bar and Lounge, 140 E 27th St (212-532-1037, triviaad.com). Thu 25 8–9:30pm.
Movies Under the Stars: West Side Story
Even the most hardened Jets and Sharks among us won’t be able to keep a dry eye at this screening of the legendary 1961 love story (still the record holder of most Oscar wins for a musical). Watch Natalie Wood’s Maria and Richard Beymer’s Tony flirt and fall in love among a tribal battle in a ’50s-era, very different Lincoln Square. Faber Pool, Richmond Terr between Faber St and Sharpe Ave, Staten Island (718-667-3545, nycgovparks.org). Thu 25 8–10:30pm.
Fleet Week Times Square Flash Mob
It’s Fleet Week in NYC, so celebrate the big Naval arrival with panache at this one-hour dance party. Join the always-wild Svetlana & the Delancey Five as they play big, brassy swing jams for your jiving, jitterbugging and Lindy Hopping pleasure, right in the middle of Times Square. Costumes are encouraged, so get working on your best Jean-Paul Gaultier sailor look. Broadway between 42nd and 47th Sts (svetlanajazz.com). Fri 26 7–8pm.
Summer on the Hudson: Freshen Up Fridays
End your week with this chill early evening kickback at the West Harlem Piers, which spotlights a different performer on the last Friday of every month through August. While you enjoy happy-hour drink specials and watch the sun set on the Hudson River, you can get down to Afro-Latino beats like cumbia, bolero and bossa nova with a hip-hop and R&B twist from Colombian artist Felisa. Henry Hudson Pkwy between St. Clair Pl and W 135 St (nycgovparks.org). Fri 26 7–8pm.
Passport to Taiwan
Now in its 16th year, this celebration of Taiwanese American Heritage Week rages in Union Square for a full day of food and performances. Stock up on dope delicacies like lobabeng rice, turnip and radish cakes and gua bao beef buns. Between bites, marvel at performances by yo-yo pros Spintop Snipers and more; and check out activities like bike tours, cooking demonstrations and exhibitions. 14th St to 17th St between Union Sq West and Park Ave South (p2tw.org). Sun 28 noon–5pm.