There's always something exciting to do or see around the five boroughs that doesn't cost a dime. See our weekly picks below, and visit our calendar and special offers section for more free events.

November 4–10

Wednesday, November 4
Stargazing at Inwood Hill Park
New York's bright lights can make stargazing a difficult task, but at Inwood Hill Park in Upper Manhattan, by virtue of its elevation and lack of street lamps, you can see more than passing planes in the night sky. Every Wednesday and Saturday night, the Inwood Astronomy Project holds free outings (and provides the telescopes). Weather permitting (call 917-529-2359 to confirm), groups meet at around 8:30pm at the baseball diamonds near Seaman and Isham Streets (on Wednesdays) or at the park entrance by Payson and Beak Streets (on Saturdays).

Thursday, November 5
Lubalin Now Opening Reception
An exhibition in honor of the late graphic designer Herb Lubalin kicks off on Thursday at Cooper Union's appropriately named Herb Lubalin Study Center of Design and Typography. Lubalin's work—which includes groundbreaking contributions to Avant Garde, Eros and Fact magazines and the creation of the ITC Avant Garde font—will be displayed alongside works by contemporary designers. The reception is from 6 to 8pm; the exhibition runs through December 8.

Friday, November 6
Free Fridays at Third Street Music School Settlement
Founded in 1894 to offer musical training to Lower East Side immigrants, the Third Street Music School Settlement has developed into a serious incubator of talent. Still going strong after 115 years, despite the seismic shifts in the neighborhood, it now serves more than 3,500 public school students. This Friday, the school's faculty performs American Music Concert, featuring songs from Aaron Copland, Samuel Barber and more.

Saturday, November 7
Performa 09
For the third time, New York City plays host to Performa, a biennial showcase of performances by visual artists, featuring works from more than 150 boundary-breaking contemporary artists. This Saturday, head downtown to the University Settlement (184 Eldridge Street) to see Lucie Fontaine's Performat, an interpretation of a work by Marcella Vanzo inspired by '70s feminism, with music from Jennifer Walshe.

Sunday, November 8
Nature Photography Series: Autumn Leaves
Before winter comes, capture the beautiful oranges, reds and yellows of autumn in the City on film. Bring your camera to Van Cortlandt Park for this hands-on workshop led by an knowledgeable park ranger who'll help you tap into your inner Ansel Adams. Instruction starts at 1pm.

Monday, November 9
My Sweet Karaoke
Lower East Side bar and live-music venue Pianos is opening up its stage…to you. Showcase your musical talents (or lack thereof) every Monday night at 10pm at My Sweet Karaoke. You and your friends can belt it out with the help of an impressive song list or kick back with a cocktail while listening to braver souls as they attempt to hit the high notes.

Tuesday, November 10
Punch Up Your Life!
Punch Up Your Life! is a weekly series of laugh-out-loud comedy hosted by Jessi Klein (Best Week Ever) and Pete Holmes (Premium Blend). A number of comedic heavyweights have graced Housing Works' stage, including John Mulaney, Nick Kroll and Janeane Garofalo. Visit the Punch Up Your Life! website for details on tonight's show.