Under The Radar Fest For Free Brings World-Class Theater to NYC

If you’re searching for free NYC events that feel exciting, creative, and truly New York, Under The Radar Fest For Free deserves a spot on your calendar. This city-wide theater festival is one of the most respected performance events in the world, and every January it opens the door for audiences to experience bold, experimental shows without paying a ticket price.

Whether you live in the city or you’re visiting this winter, this is one of the best things to do in NYC in January if you love art, culture, and discovering something new.

What Is Under The Radar Fest For Free?

Under The Radar Fest For Free is the accessibility initiative of the annual Under the Radar Festival, a major New York City performance event that showcases contemporary theater from artists across the globe. The festival features dozens of productions and hundreds of performances, with a special focus on innovation, storytelling, and creative risk-taking.

The “For Free” component allows audiences to attend select performances at no cost through a simple sign-up process, making world-class theater accessible to everyone.

All the info here:  https://365thingsnewyork.com/UnderTheRadarFestForAll2026

Dates and Schedule

  • Dates: January 7 through January 25, 2026

  • Times: Performance times vary by show and venue, with daytime and evening options available throughout the festival

Because events run across multiple weeks, it’s easy to fit a performance into your plans whether you’re visiting NYC for a weekend or staying longer.

Locations Across New York City

Performances take place at multiple partner theaters and performance spaces throughout New York City, including venues in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Each show has its own location, creating a true city-wide arts experience and a great excuse to explore different neighborhoods.

Venue details are provided when you reserve tickets for individual performances.

Is Under The Radar Fest Really Free?

Yes. Under The Radar Fest For Free is completely free, but tickets are required.

Here’s how it works:

  • Free tickets are released through a sign-up system

  • Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis

  • Availability varies by performance and date

  • A unique access code is required to reserve tickets

While not every performance in the festival is free, many are included in the For Free program, and availability changes as tickets are released.

What Kind of Performances Can You Expect?

This festival is known for pushing boundaries. You can expect:

  • Experimental and contemporary theater

  • International and local artists

  • Innovative storytelling and performance styles

  • Dance, music, spoken word, and multidisciplinary works

Every show is different, which makes Under The Radar one of the most exciting free cultural events in NYC each year.

Why You Should Add This to Your NYC Plans

Under The Radar Fest For Free is perfect if you’re looking for:

  • Free things to do in NYC

  • Unique winter events in New York City

  • Cultural experiences beyond Broadway

  • Memorable activities for January travel

It’s an opportunity to experience NYC’s creative energy without spending a dime, and it consistently ranks among the most interesting arts events of the winter season.

If you love theater, storytelling, or simply discovering something unexpected, this festival is absolutely worth your time.

All the info here:  https://365thingsnewyork.com/UnderTheRadarFestForAll2026