Affordable, Engaging, and Exciting Live Events in NYC
NYC is a vibrant hub of art, culture, music, and entertainment. It's a place where dreams come alive, and the city's pulsating energy is amplified through its numerous live events. From Broadway shows to outdoor concerts and street festivals, there's something for everyone, no matter the interest. Something to be weary of is price - you can find yourself slipping into an event that ends up costing you your whole weekend budget and only lasts a few hours.
Here are 7 ideas for you to get that live entertainment without breaking the bank.
Broadway on a Budget:
Ever since South Park made it known to the public that musicals are subconsciously convincing our significant others to perform oral on us - people have been busting over to Broadway . Next Wednesday, the cheapest ticket to see the Lion King is $133 before fees - that’s CRAZY.
Here’s how you get cheaper tickets:
Matinee shows: yeah they’re during the day, but you’ve probably got time. If you were at work, you’d just go with the rest of the upper class at a normal time
Tickets at the window: often times, there will be extra house seats available - they’d rather make some money than no money, so go flex your bargaining skills on someone in the same tax bracket as you.
2. Free Outdoor Concerts:
NYC comes alive with the sound of music during the summer - there are a multitude of outdoor concerts and music festivals take center stage. Many of these events are entirely free, showcasing a diverse range of musical genres. From Central Park's SummerStage series to the Bryant Park Picnic Performances, you can enjoy live music in iconic settings without spending a dime. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and immerse yourself in the tunes of both established and emerging artists.
3. Comedy Shows
Stand Up Comedy is an insanely stimulating live event and New York is the number one hub for comedic talent. Comics move here from all over the world to try and get passed at the major clubs. Make reservations at places like the Comedy Cellar to see the greatest comics of today.
That being said, we’re here to save money - sure a ticket there is $20, but theres a 2 drink minimum, and you know how expensive drinks are in New York City. If you want to get a really unique comedy experience for less, check out Damn That’s Funny, aka DTF Comedy. These guys put on really cool popup comedy shows around the tristate area. They also incorporate free drinks into the ticket price. A $40 ticket could get you complete open bar for 2.5 hours. And they usually put on either famous comedians or the rising stars of tomorrow. They can take a barbershop and flip it into a completely luxurious stand up comedy club.
4. Art Galleries and Open Studios:
I personally hate art as a medium, but that’s just because I have taste. If you are a boring person and you’re actually reading this, you probably already know about the dozens of famous museums in New York. Furthermore, if you are a “museum” person you probably find my writing style tasteless and irreverent and I have nothing to say to you. As a matter of fact I don’t believe you’d have even read this far. If you’re actually reading this I’ll give you a promo code for 100% off your next 30 tickets with DTF Comedy - or just bring you and 29 friends for free. Just email damnthatsfunnycomedy@gmail.com and tell me you’re here.
5. Great bars with live music
Red Lion, Stumble Inn, the Cutting Room. Always a guaranteed good time. The first 2 maybe not if you’re over the age of 26. If you are and you like those places, I’m sorry. But, look, Stumble Inn has $3 bud light seltzers and a band so…do with that info what you will.
6. Public Parks and Outdoor Activities:
Exploring the city's public parks can be both engaging and cost-effective. From Central Park to the High Line and Prospect Park, these urban oases offer various activities like walking, biking, picnicking, and more. Additionally, these parks often host free events such as yoga classes, outdoor movie screenings, and live performances, providing a fantastic way to engage with the community.
7. Street Performances:
A few suggestions here:
Grab a friend and a 6 pack and sit on the subway for a few hours. It really doesn’t matter what train you choose. You’re bound to have a rip-sh*t good time.
You can also go to Washington Square park - although they’re cracking down on live performances there. Damn communists. If the cops are being a bunch of little bitches - you can catch some of the city's most incredible musicians playing by the fountain.
