Discover 12 Free Events This September to Celebrate Fall
As September begins, a diverse array of free activities awaits residents and visitors in cities across the globe. This month offers a wealth of events, including performances, cultural festivals, and outdoor activities, all designed to welcome the arrival of fall without straining your budget.
Exciting Cultural Performances
For those interested in theater, Public Works presents a unique musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Pericles,” featuring a gospel twist. The final performances will take place on September 1 and September 2 at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, starting at 20:00 each evening.
At South Street Seaport, two events will set the tone for the month. On September 4, acrobat Tatiana-Mosio Bongonga will perform a tightrope act, following a performance by the French troupe Compagnie Basinga at 18:00. The following Sunday, September 7, a sea shanty singalong will take place from 14:00 to 16:00, offering a unique cultural experience.
Dance enthusiasts can attend a free dance series hosted by Works & Process at Manhattan West every Wednesday in September. The series will feature different themes, beginning with Latin Hustle on September 3 and continuing with swing, salsa, and queer line-dancing.
Another highlight is the staged reading of Molière’s “The Imaginary Invalid” at Domino Park on September 26 and September 27, with performances starting at 19:00. The organization, Molière in the Park, is known for bringing free theater to various locations, having established its reputation in Prospect Park over the past six years.
Festivals and Community Activities
Food lovers will appreciate the Feast of San Gennaro, a beloved event that transforms Little Italy into a vibrant pedestrian haven filled with food vendors and live performances. This festive occasion runs from September 11 to September 21, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine.
The Brooklyn Book Festival, celebrating its 20th year, is the largest free literary festival in the city. Taking place from September 14 to September 22, the festival will host numerous workshops and readings across all five boroughs, inviting both aspiring authors and avid readers to participate.
Music enthusiasts can enjoy a free concert featuring Yaacov Mayman’s Super-Hot Afro-Latin Jazz Band at Queens’ Central Library on September 6 from 14:00 to 15:30. This performance will delve into the legacy of jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie and his influence on bebop and Afro-Cuban jazz.
Families looking for outdoor adventures can participate in urban camping organized by the Urban Park Rangers at Blue Heron Park on Staten Island and Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx on September 19. Reservations for these camping spots open on September 10.
For those interested in nature, the Fantastic Fungi Hike on September 27 will guide participants through Staten Island’s Greenbelt, offering a chance to learn about various mushrooms. This event begins at the Greenbelt Nature Center at 10:30.
Lastly, the Yes Block Party in Bushwick will bring music, art, and dance to the streets on September 21 from 12:00 to 18:00, featuring performances from local artists. Attendees aged 21 and over can enjoy a free afterparty at the House of Yes, which has become a cultural staple in the area.
As September unfolds, these free events provide ample opportunities to embrace the changing season, celebrate community, and engage in enriching experiences without spending a cent.
