The unfortunate truth is that much of what we want on a regular basis is just too expensive (ex. fancy dinners, cocktails, tickets to Broadway shows, a dog, a pool).
It's no secret that living in NYC is expensive as hell, making those "extra recreational expenses" difficult to squeeze in.
So let's try and have the best time we can on a strict budget. And by strict budget, I mean lets spend absolutely nothing.
The best things in life are free, my friends! Here's a guide to a bunch of fun and FREE events going on this October.
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1. Queens County Farm Museum (October 1st)
Queens County Farm Museum (73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park) is hosting a "Kickoff to Fall" event, in celebration of the Museum's season opening. Corn mazes, fresh cider, live music, and much more! Step into the fall as it was meant to be done, amirite?
2. Columbus Day Parade (October 9th)
The NYC Columbus Day Parade is actually one of the largest events going on in NYC this October. It'll bring in a crowd of over 30,000 participants alone, and that's not even counting the audience that is sure to swallow 5th Avenue whole. Join us in the big celebration on your (hopefully) day off from work.
It all starts at 11 am, and will be led by Barnes and Noble Chairman, Grand Marshal Leonard Riggio.
3. " Nothing Important" One and One, Comedy Show (every Friday night)
The Brooklyn Venue, Friends and Lovers (641 Classon Avenue between Dean and Specific Streets) hosts a free comedy show every Friday night! Hosted by "Nothing Important Comedy," the evening showcases local talent from around the city, then finishes off the night with a massive afterparty.
Just reserve tickets, and show up!
4. NVR Sleep Dirty South (October 11th)
Gear up for the latest installment of NVRSleep, 90's R&B style. Line up at Kinfolk (90 Wythe Avenue) for an evening of down south bangers blended with contemporary hits. Starting at 9 p.m., you'll jam to feel-good sounds and also lift others up, because proceeds will go to the victims of Hurricane Harvey.
Get down and do good! Totally free, just RSVP here.
5. 4th Avenue Pub (Every Day)
So, I suppose this isn't 100% free, but listen to this. Head over to 4th Avenue Pub @ 76 Fourth Avenue in Park Slope, Brooklyn, have a drink or two, but don't worry about paying for snacks because they've got free popcorn on the daily for you to munch on while you hang. Something to keep in mind, no?
6. Blind Tiger (Every Wednesday)
This may be the best thing you've heard today. Come to the Blind Tiger at 281 Bleecker Street West Village, on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. and enjoy a taste of fine gourmet cheeses and baguettes. And it's all ACTUALLY free! Unbelievable.
7. Free Fridays at the MoMA! (Fridays 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.)
We're not sure if you know this, but every Friday from 4-8 p.m., The MoMA (11 W 53rd Street) offers free admission, courtesy of UNIQLO. Lines can get long of course, so if you're trying avoid all that, they suggest you show up after 6:00 pm.
8. Open House New York (Oct 14th & 15th)
You wont want to miss out on this annual, weekend long event. Open House New York gives us the exciting and limited chance to experience certain venues/sites that are not typically available to the general public, including historical buildings and closed off rooftops.
And this year, the The Met Opera House has been added to the list of participating venues. So take a walking tour, or just explore for yourself. Find out more details here.
9. NYC Sweet Treats Bazaar (October 15th)
This cherished uptown market, Grand Bazaar NYC offers a delicious dessert spread, with macarons, ice cream sammys, pies, and more from 25 different NYC pastry chefs! And yup, admission is free.
10. 27th Annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade (October 21st)
Suit up your pup and head to Tompkins Square Park for the largest dog costume parade in the world. From 12 p.m. to 3 p.m, witness these doggos let their alter-egos shine in some of the cutest and most creative outfits you've ever seen. The competition is fierce for these canines— dog eat dog, some might say— and the top fashionistas win thousands of dollars in prizes.
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No pup? No problem. Witness the dogs strut their stuff— no registration required!
11. Village Halloween Parade (October 31st)
Don't miss out on one of New York City's most fun and most notorious October events! Anyone in a costume is free to join in the 44th Annual Village Halloween Parade. If you want to participate in the trek and be eligible to win a prestigious best costume prize, all you have to do is show up at 6th Ave and Canal Street between 6:30 and 8 pm.
If not, feel free to watch the action from the comfort of your street clothes on 6th Avenue North of Spring Street to 16th Street from 7:00pm-10:30pm or from the comfort of your home on channel NY1 from 8 pm-9:30pm.
If you're still deciding on a costume and want to tailor your approach, this year's theme is Cabinet of Curiosities: An Imaginary Menagerie. 21+ afterparty to follow!
[Feature Image Courtesy Tompkins Square Dog Run]