Image via Complex Original
New York City gets a bad rap for being overpriced. Its portrayed in movies as a city for bougey people with money to blow, an uneasy reality for those of living paycheck to paycheck. Which is most of us.
But even New York City has its moments where it can smash those stereotypes to the ground and surprise you with something free. Though rare in nature, we've gathered a list of free events to be enjoyed by both the high-class and working citizens of New York City. Here is Free 99: 10 Things to Do in NYC This Weekend That Won't Cost You a Dime.
Howl! Festival
Date: May 31 - June 2
Time: Varies
Location: Tompkins Square Park, 500 E. 9th St.
Website: howlfestival.com
Named after long time East Village resident Allen Ginsberg's poem, the Howl Festival celebrates local cultural icons and works to preserve the art and history unique to the East Village and Lower East Side. The festival will feature a weekend-long event of performances and workshops. The exterior of Tompkins Square Park will be covered with a 900-foot long blank canvas that will showacse art from over 140 artists.
Bushwick Open Studios
Date: May 31 - June 2
Time: Varies
Location: Varies
Website: artsinbushwick.org
The Bushwick Open Studio is a festival that celebrates the Brooklyn community's eccentric art scene. Hosted by the volunteer organization Arts in Brooklyn, this year's festival will feature over 600 exhibits and performances all over the Bushwick area. Musical guests include Juniper Rising and Mighty Fine. Free food and wine will also be served at many of the art venues such as Jesus NYC.
Art by the Ferry
Date: May 31 - June 2
Time: Varies
Location: St. George, Staten Island
Website: statenislandcreativecommunity.org
This annual art festival takes place on the scenic harbor of St. George and features live musical performances, art shows, and local author readings. The musical performance will be staged close to the St. George terminal and features artists such as Paradox 9 and Jamie Glass.
The 14th Annual Carnaval Del Boulevard
Date: Saturday, June 1
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: St. Nicholas Ave. (btwn. 181st and 188th Sts,)
Carnaval Del Boulevard is an annual celebration of the Latin American culture, specifically the culture of Dominican Republic. This year's festival will consist of live musical performances from Latin artists as well as dance performances. Like any successful festival, Caranaval will have countless food vendors, many specializing in Latin cuisine.
Harborlore Festival
Date: June 1 - June 2
Time: Varies
Location: Varies
Website: brooklynartscouncil.org
The Harborlore festival is a series of 12 free musical performances consisting of dance and storytelling. The events explore the importance of water in the artistic realm, as well as how it has affected Brooklyn post Hurricane Sandy. This weekend will feature performances by Keith Johnston and traditional dance workshops like Dancing the Waters.
Celebrate Israel Parade
Date: Sunday, June 2
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Fifth Avenue (btwn. 57th and 74th Sts.)
Website: salutetoisrael.com
The Israel Parade gathers over 30,000 marchers to celebrate the diversity and exciting culture of the country of Israel. This year's theme is Picture Israel; The Art and the Craft and focuses on paintings, collages, and illustrations that depict the diversity of the people of Israel.
DayLife
Date: Sunday, June 2
Time: Noon
Location: Orchard Street
Website: lowereastsideny.com
The DayLife festival takes up three blocks in the Orchard Street neighborhood of the Lower East Side. Streets will be filled with some of the neighborhood's best food and fashion vendors. Entertainment will include yoga classes, courtesy of Yoga High, DJ lessons from Scratch DJ Academy, and AstroTurf for a quick game of badminton.
Astoria Dance Festival
Date: Sunday, June 2
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Location: Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, 29-19 24th Ave.
Website: undertoedance.com
The Undertoe Dance Project presents the Astoria Dance Festival, an event dedicated to celebrating the dance culture in Astoria, Queens. Dance performances from all genres will be performed including: afro jazz, ballet, and tap dance. The festival will also be offering free dance lessons.
Third Avenue Merchants Spring Fair
Date: Sunday, June 2
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Third Avenue (btwn. 14th and 23rd Sts.)
Taking place since the early 1990s, the Third Avenue Merchants Spring Fair is the ideal place for merchants and crafters to gather to sell their homemade goods. The fair will consist of over 300 international food vendors and merchandise exhibitors. Live entertainment will also be featured.
Bushwick Collective Block Party
Date: Sunday, June 2
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: St. Nicholas Ave. and Troutman St.
Website: facebook.com
Spend some time outdoors while enjoying this year's Bushwich Collective Block Party. The event will feature 20 spray painters, including artists Franck Duval and Creepy, and showcase their work in the outdoor space. Musical guests like Ninjasonik will also be in attendance.