Free Things to Do On The UWS in February 2024

As we do every month, here we look to present a sampling of some of the best free things to do on the UWS. Hopefully, this will allow you to enjoy the neighborhood’s charm without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a nature lover, the UWS has something for everyone. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready to discover the hidden gems of our neighborhood.

Central Park NYC Ever Walk Group – Every Saturday during February

Join them for a 3-mile walk for about 90 minutes. The group aims to explore different parts of the park so that you have a mini-adventure to talk about with your friends. The group meets up at 9:55 a.m. and promptly leaves at 10:00 a.m. every Saturday. The meet-up/finish spot is always the same – enter the park through 90th Street and Fifth Avenue, and cross the road with runners and cyclists. Stay on the dirt path (bridle path) on the other side of the road. Meet in front of the John Purroy Mitchel statue.

JASA – Club 76 Older Adult Center

For seniors, the JASA – Club 76 Older Adult Center offers free programming Monday through Friday.  Enjoy lunch, socialize, and participate in various activities at this welcoming center. Located at 120 W. 76th Street (between Columbus & Amsterdam Avenues). 212.712.0170

Manhattan School of Music

Symphony Orchestra – Friday, February 2, 2024 -7:30 p.m.

Conducted by George Manahan featuring Sonya Shin, violin

Jazz Orchestra – Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – 7:30 p.m.

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Wayne Shorter

Pre-college Performances – Friday, February 16, 2024 – 7:30 p.m.

Celebrating Black History Month – Presented by the MSM Black Student Union

All shows are at Neidorff-Karpati Hall – 130 Claremont Ave. (off 122nd St. between Broadway & Riverside). To see a complete list of performances go to the School of Music website.

Birding: Winter Waterfowl – Sunday, February 4, 2024

New York City’s Urban Park Rangers will guide you to the best viewing spots in New York City to see winter waterfowl. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. Meet in Central Park at the entrance at W. 85th Street and Central Park West. 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.

Grand Bazaar NYC – February 4, 11, 18, 25

New York City’s largest curated weekly market is open all year round, with hundreds of regular and seasonal vendors. From vintage goods to artisanal foods, there is something for everyone. The indoor and outdoor markets are located at 100 W. 77th Street (at Columbus Ave.) from 10:00 – 5:00 pm. Profits support local NYC public schools.

St. Agnes Library – Chess at 3 – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Chess at Three is an international network of chess tutors who introduce chess to children.  Open to children ages 8-12.  Space is limited to the first 10 children. Children’s Room 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Located at 444 Amsterdam Ave. (between W. 81st & 82nd Streets).

Lincoln Center – Halie Loren – Saturday, February 10, 2024

An American jazz singer and songwriter from Sitka, Alaska. Her albums have reached number one on the Billboard Japan Top 20 Jazz Albums chart. Hear the voice that’s charmed the globe at her Lincoln Center debut. Stop by at 61 West 62nd Street (David Rubenstein Atrium) on February 10th at 7:30 p.m.

Lincoln Center – Joel Insuperable – Friday, February 16, 2024

Join Jose Alberto Sanchez–better known as Joel Insuperable for a night of ballads, merengues, and bachatas. Join this social dance party at the David Rubenstein Atrium (61 W. 67th Street) on Feb. 16th at 7:30 p.m.

Lincoln Center – Runnner – Saturday, February 17, 2024

Runnner is the stage name of American indie rock musician Noah Weinman. Stop by the David Rubenstein Atrium (61 W. 67th Street) on February 17th at 7:30 p.m. to hear this singer-songwriter with his blend of melancholy bedroom folk.

Riverside Park Birding Club – Saturday, February 24, 2024

Opportunity to learn about all the birding hot spots in Riverside Park, led by Riverside Park Conservancy Field Staff. Open to birders of all ages and experience. Meet at W. 103rd Street & Riverside Park at 8:00-9:30 a.m.