Fall brings a host of free events to the five boroughs. You’ll find holiday parades, art exhibits, street festivals and tours of buildings usually off limits to the public—all of which you can enjoy without breaking the bank. We’ve gathered some of our favorites below; click on each to find out more.
Broadway
Wicked
Broadway megahit Wicked shows us how two unlikely friends grew to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch—long before Dorothy dropped into the land of Oz.
Broadway
The Phantom of the Opera
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most famous creation, based on a popular French novel, is the longest-running musical on Broadway. A deformed musical genius, the Phantom, gives voice lessons to a struggling singer, falls in love and attempts to force her to return his feelings.
Off-Broadway
Jersey Boys
Jersey Boys tells the story of '60s musical sensation The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi.
Broadway
Chicago
This quintessential Broadway experience features show-stopping tunes, slinky dancing and a story of murder, betrayal, revenge, friendship, fame and all that jazz. The Tony Award–winning show spawned the hit movie.
Broadway
The Lion King
Based on Disney's 1994 animated classic, this Broadway adaptation adds new songs by Elton John to the familiar story, along with sweeping vistas of the African savanna where the story is set along with jaw-dropping costumes.
Tours
Sex and the City Tavern Tour
Missing Carrie & Co? Now that the long-awaited film has debuted, put on those Manolo Blahniks and come with a thirst for Cosmopolitans and nostalgia for the show. Trace their footsteps on a tour of sites associated with the program, with stops at several of their frequented bars. $15 For times, dates and reservations: 212-465-3331
Music
BAMcafé Live
BAMcafé Live features a diverse mix of free live music and performance in BAM's Lepercq Space, a lounge and bar space in the Peter Jay Sharp Building. Recent series include the on-going residency with Black Rock Coalition (BRC). This year you can find some of the best artists from Brooklyn and beyond performing on the BAMcafé Live stage every Friday and Saturday night from October through June. The bar is open for drinks and light menu items beginning at 8pm. There is no cover charge and no drink minimum.
Arts & Culture
Story Museum
Join this special story and activity time at Historic Richmond Town, Staten Island's living history museum. Toddlers and kids up to age 5 are invited to the hour-long Story Museum, which takes place every Thursday morning. Please call 718-351-1611 ext. 280 to reserve a spot. For more information, visit http://historicrichmondtown.org/visit/events/event-info