20+ Best Things to Do in NYC This October (Free & Paid)
As the weather cools down, New York City’s event calendar heats up. October is a great month for getting out, with street fairs, food festivals, and Halloween events happening all over the five boroughs. To help you make the most of the season, here is a guide to some of the best free and paid things to do in NYC this October.
A quick tip: Event details can sometimes change. We always recommend checking the official websites for the latest updates and to confirm any admission costs before you head out.
Your Ultimate NYC October Bucket List is Here: 20+ Unmissable Events
Free Fun Events
Dragon Fest
NYC’s biggest Chinese food and culture festival is back. And with endless dumplings, noodles, and cultural performances, it’s the kind of event you’ll leave both full and happy.
- When: October 4 – 4th Ave (12th–13th St), October 5 – 6th Ave (31st–32nd St), October 12 – Broadway (81st–82nd St)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.dragonfests.com
- Best for: Foodies.
Atlantic Antic
Brooklyn’s biggest street fair shuts down ten blocks for music, food, and artisan goods. So, wander, snack, and soak up the local energy.
- When: October 5, 2025
- Where: Atlantic Avenue (Fourth Avenue to Hicks Street) Brooklyn
- Tickets: Free admission
- Instagram: @atlanticanticbrooklyn
- Best for: Families, food lovers, and street fair wanderers.
Seaport Pumpkin Arch
Pumpkins, skyline views, and the Brooklyn Bridge in the background? That’s a fall photo shoot waiting to happen. By day, it’s a cute autumn stroll. By night, it glows like NYC’s unofficial Halloween landmark.
- When: October 22-November 17, 2025
- Where: Heineken Riverdeck, North Side of Pier 17 (89 South Street, New York)
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://theseaport.nyc
- Best for: Photo hunters.
40th Annual Bronx Halloween Parade
The Bronx knows how to party, and this Halloween parade proves it. Expect floats, costumes, music, and a whole lot of community spirit.
- When: October 25, 2025
- Where: Westchester Ave & Southern Blvd, The Bronx
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.bxcb2.events
- Best for: Families, parade lovers.
Village Halloween Parade
Greenwich Village transforms with costumed revelers, giant puppets, and live bands. Spooky, spectacular, and pure NYC fun.
- When: October 31, 2025
- Where: 6th Avenue from KING St to West 15th
- Tickets: Free and ticketed
- Website: https://halloween-nyc.com
- Best for: Families, costume lovers, and parade fans.
Smorgasburg
With over 70 vendors, you can spend your weekend taste-testing everything from Ethiopian stews to potato puff poutine. Well, your weekends might become cheat days.
- Fridays: WTC
- Saturdays: Marsha P. Johnson State Park (90 Kent Ave, Brooklyn)
- Sundays: Breeze Hill, Brooklyn
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.smorgasburg.com
- Best for: Food lovers.
JAPAN Fes
Save the plane ticket; Tokyo just pulled up to Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. With 1,000 vendors, JAPAN Fes is like a love letter to ramen, takoyaki, and all things delicious.
- October 4: New Rochelle
- October 5: Chelsea
- October 18: East Village
- October 19: Upper West side
- October 26: Upper West side
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.japanfes.com
- Best for: Foodies.
SEOUL Pop-Up 2025 at VIBE TWLV
This K-Beauty pop-up has 10 brands, free AI skin analysis, and a garden-inspired setup perfect for browsing (and selfies). Yep, you can skip the flight to Korea.
- When: Until October 5, 2025
- Where: 50 Berry Street, Brooklyn
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://vibetwlv.com
- Best for: K-Beauty fans.
Illy Cube Pop-Up
Illy’s pop-up takes you on a multi-sensory journey, complete with a cube wall and specialty lattes like Almond Rose and Vanilla Clove.
- When: Until October 5, 2025
- Where: 20 Hudson Yards, New York
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com
- Best for: Coffee lovers.
BUBS Candy “Sweeteasy” Pop-Up
Here, you can build your own candy bag with exclusive flavors like banana toffee and lemon raspberry, then snap a few sugar-high selfies among the bright décor.
- When: Until October 22, 2025
- Where: 69 Mercer St, SoHo
- Tickets: Free admission
- TikTok: @bubs_us
- Best for: Candy lovers.
OktoberFest NYC at Watermark
Pier 15 is where steins meet skyline. You’ll enjoy giant pretzels, German beer, and an atmosphere that says, “Yes, I can finish this mini-keg.”
- When: Until October 26, 2025
- Where: 78 South Street, New York
- Tickets: Free admission (RSVP required) / VIP Fast Pass & Royalty Open Bar Tickets also available
- Website: https://oktober-fest.nyc
- Best for: Beer lovers.
Oktoberfest at Loreley Beer Garden
Pumpkin beer… served out of an actual pumpkin. Loreley is leaning all the way into fall with keg tappings, pig roasts, and pumpkin-spice cocktails.
- When: Until October 31, 2025
- Where: 7 Rivington St, New York
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://www.loreleynyc.com
- Best for: Festival goers and beer lovers.
La Beauté Louis Vuitton Pop-Up
Louis Vuitton decided bags weren’t enough, so now they’re serving lipsticks, eyeshadows, and balms. Designed by Pat McGrath, this futuristic pop-up feels like stepping into a fashion editorial.
- When: Until December 31, 2025
- Where: 104 Prince Street, New York
- Tickets: Free admission
- Website: https://eu.louisvuitton.com
- Best for: Beauty fans.
Paid & Ticketed Things To Do
Black Lagoon Pop-Up at Someday Bar
Nothing says spooky season like sipping a cocktail that looks like it came out of a cauldron. Someday Bar goes full gothic makeover, with eerie lighting, creepy décor, and drinks that bubble and smoke.
- When: October 1-November 2, 2025
- Where: 364 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn
- Price: Varies
- Website: https://blacklagoonpopup.com
- Best for: Cocktail fans, spooky-season lovers.
CultureCon
Part conference, part block party, CultureCon brings creatives of color together in Brooklyn. And you’ll encounter workshops, speakers, and thousands of attendees.
- When: October 4-5, 2025
- Where: Duggal Greenhouse (63 Flushing Ave, Building 268 Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://theccnyc.com
- Best for: Creatives.
We Belong Here EDM Festival
EDM lovers can dance the night away in New York’s coolest locales. With Greenpoint joining the fun this year, the beats and energy are next-level.
- October 3-5: Greenpoint Waterfront (Brooklyn)
- October 10-12: Wollman Rink (Manhattan)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.webelonghere.world
- Best for: EDM fans and dance-floor lovers.
Blood Manor
This isn’t your grandma’s haunted house — unless she enjoys 10,000 sq. ft. of blood, guts, and nightmare fuel. Actors jump out at you, corridors twist endlessly, and you’ll spend half the time screaming and the other half laughing at yourself.
- When: October 3-November 8, 2025
- Where: 359 Broadway, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.bloodmanor.com
- Best for: Thrill seekers.
Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival
Manhattan’s Seaport transforms into a foodie paradise with multi-course dining, tastings, masterclasses, and boozy brunches. And yep, your taste buds will be busy all day.
- When: October 15-19, 2025
- Where: Seaport in Lower Manhattan
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://nycwff.org
- Best for: Foodies and culinary adventurers.
Manhattan Vintage – Fall 2025 Show
Fall is the season for layers, and nothing beats vintage for that. This massive market has over 100 dealers, which means everything from disco glam to grunge chic is up for grabs.
- When: October 17-19, 2025
- Where: Metropolitan Pavilion (125 West 18th Street, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://manhattanvintage.com
- Best for: Vintage lovers.
NAILCON 2025
Nail art is the highlight at this two-day event in the Meatpacking District. Panels, live demos, music, and interactive experiences make it a must for creative hands.
- When: October 18-19, 2025
- Where: 440 W 15th St, New York
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://nailconmedia.com
- Best for: Beauty enthusiasts and creative explorers.
New York Comic Con
Four days of all things pop culture—comics, celebs, panels, voice actors, and geeky adventures await. It’s a place where heroes, villains, and nerds of every kind are not just welcome—they belong.
- When: October 9-12, 2025
- Where: Javits Center (429 11th Ave, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.newyorkcomiccon.com
- Best for: Cosplayers, comic fans, and families.
Cathedral of St. John the Divine’s Annual Halloween Extravaganza
Mettawee performers bring spooky fun to the cathedral with live shows, a Phantom of the Opera screening, and the return of the Great Organ. A perfect mix of fright and delight.
- When: October 24-25, 2025
- Where: 1047 Amsterdam Ave, New York
- Tickets: $50 General Admission
- Website: https://www.stjohndivine.org
- Best for: Halloween fans and theater lovers.
Zum Schneider’s Oktoberfest
If an oompah band led by the festival founder himself doesn’t scream “authentic,” I don’t know what does. Zum Schneider is keeping Bavarian traditions alive with beer, food, and a lively crowd.
- When: Until October 5, 2025
- Where: 12 Franklin Street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://nyc.zumschneider.com
- Best for: Oktoberfest fans and beer lovers.
New York Film Festival
This is your chance to casually say, “Oh, I saw that before it was in theaters.” With 60+ films from directors like Bradley Cooper, Luca Guadagnino, and Claire Denis, cinephiles will be eating well this month.
- When: Until October 13, 2025
- Where: Film at Lincoln Center (70 Lincoln Center Plaza 4th fl., Manhattan)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.filmlinc.org
- Best for: Film buffs.
Oktoberfest at Black Forest Brooklyn
Six weekends of lederhosen, oompah bands, and beer specials. Add costume contests into the mix, and suddenly Williamsburg feels like Munich.
- When: Until October 25 (Saturday afternoon and evenings, plus some Friday evenings, and Sunday afternoons)
- Where: Fort Greene (733 Fulton Street, Brooklyn) / Smith Street (181 Smith Street, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Starts at $15
- Website: https://www.blackforestbrooklyn.com
- Best for: Oktoberfest fans.
Bronx Zoo Harvest Glow
Glow-in-the-dark pumpkins, nighttime animal trails, and even a dino safari. It’s spooky season but family-friendly, which means no jump scares.
- When: Until October 31, 2025
- Where: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://bronxzoo.com
- Best for: Families with kids.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Thousands of intricately carved pumpkins are arranged into massive glowing displays. Forget carving your own lopsided one; just stroll through this pumpkin wonderland and call it seasonal participation.
- When: Until November 16, 2025
- Where: Van Cortlandt Manor (525 S Riverside, Croton-on-Hudson)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://pumpkinblaze.org
- Best for: Families.
The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at NY Botanical Garden
Jack Skellington takes over the Botanical Garden with glowing trails, themed BOOths, and all your favorite songs. It’s like a crossover episode between Halloween and Christmas, and yes, it works.
- When: Until November 30, 2025
- Where: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://thenightmarebeforechristmaslighttrail.com
- Best for: Families and movie fans.
Concerts
Renee Rapp – Bite Me Tour
Kicking off the month with some pop drama, Renee Rapp is bringing her Bite Me Tour to NYC. With viral hits, a newly released album, and high energy, this show’s bound to feel like a main character moment.
- When: October 1, 2025
- Where: Barclays Center (620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://shop.reneerapp.com
- Best for: Pop fans
Lorde – The Ultrasound World Tour
Also on day one? Lorde. NYC gets spoiled. She’s back with her most personal album yet, Virgin, and you already know the setlist will give you goosebumps.
- When: October 1, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.lorde.co.nz
- Best for: Pop music lovers.
Jordan Davis – Ain’t Enough Road Tour 2025
Photo via @jordandavisofficial / Instagram
If country pop is more your speed, Jordan Davis is rolling through with his Louisiana charm and a ton of chart-topping hits. Also, prepare for the catchy choruses and heartfelt lyrics.
- When: October 2, 2025
- Where: Radio City Music Hall (1260 6th Ave, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.jordandavisofficial.com
- Best for: Country fans.
Twenty One Pilots – The Clancy Tour: Breach 2025
Just when you’re catching your breath, Twenty One Pilots hit the stage. These guys are masters of chaos — expect synths, raps, drums, and a crowd that knows every lyric louder than the speakers.
- When: October 4, 2025
- Where: Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater (895 Bay Pkwy, Wantagh)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.twentyonepilots.com
- Best for: Alternative rock and electropop fans.
Dimash Qudaibergen
Six octaves. Madison Square Garden. Enough said. Dimash can out-sing your entire playlist, blending classical and contemporary music.
- When: October 5, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://en.dimashnews.com
- Best for: Fans of genre-blending music.
Nicole Scherzinger
Yes, Nicole is serving solo hits and Broadway-level vocals at Carnegie Hall. Her stage presence is pure fire, and if she busts out “Buttons,” don’t be surprised if the whole room dances.
- When: October 8, 2025
- Where: Carnegie Hall (57th Street and, 7th Ave, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.nicolescherzinger.com
- Best for: Fans of powerhouse singers.
Lainey Wilson – Whirlwind World
October gets twangy. Lainey Wilson brings her Grammy-nominated hits and southern sass to town. Prepare for bell-bottoms, belting, and some serious boot-stomping.
- When: October 10, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.laineywilson.com
- Best for: Country lovers
Laufey – A Matter of Time Tour (October 15–16)
Jazz-pop darling Laufey has been winning hearts with her blend of jazz-pop and “bedroom pop” ever since her breakout hit Street by Street. And NYC is about to feel a little more romantic when Laufey takes the stage at Madison Square Garden for two nights.
- When: October 15-16, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.laufeymusic.com
- Best for: Jazz pop fans.
David Archuleta – Earthy Delights Tour
From American Idol to now, David Archuleta’s voice still melts hearts. Prepare for throwbacks, fresh songs, and plenty of charm from the guy who never stopped swooning crowds.
- When: October 16, 2025
- Where: Gramercy Theatre (127 E 23rd St, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://davidarchuleta.com
- Best for: Pop lovers.
Tate McRae – The Miss Possessive Tour
From her viral Create With Tate YouTube series to her smash hit Greedy, Tate has become one of today’s biggest pop stars. With her new album So Close To What World, this tour is your chance to hear the fresh tracks live before they take over your playlist.
- When: October 18, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.tatemcrae.com
- Best for: Pop fans.
Lea Salonga
Disney princess royalty, Broadway legend, and one of the most iconic voices of our time. Lea Salonga’s concert is a vocal masterclass wrapped in pure nostalgia.
- When: October 20, 2025
- Where: The Town Hall (123 W 43rd St, New York)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.leasalonga.com
- Best for: Broadway and Disney fans
Billie Eilish – Hit Me Hard And Soft
Billie Eilish brings her haunting vocals and epic instrumentals to the stage for a show that’s emotional, electrifying, and unforgettable. Fans of bold, genre-defying pop will want to see this one live.
- When: October 25-26, 2025
- Where: UBS Arena (2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont)
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://store.billieeilish.com
- Best for: Pop fans.
Sabrina Carpenter – Short N Sweet Tour
Sabrina Carpenter turns the stage into a live playlist with hits like Espresso and Please, Please, Please. And you can expect sing-alongs, fun energy, and maybe even a few dance moves.
- When: October 26,28, 29, & 31 and November 1, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://store.sabrinacarpenter.com
- Best for: Pop fans and music lovers.
Bryan Adams – Roll With The Punches Tour
Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams will perform classic hits and new tracks with special guests. A night of guitar riffs, nostalgia, and crowd-pleasing anthems awaits.
- When: October 30, 2025
- Where: Madison Square Garden
- Tickets: Click here.
- Website: https://www.bryanadams.com
- Best for: Rock fans and longtime music lovers.
Other Events/Activities to Check Out
- The Suicide Boys Hit The Road On Tour – October 3 at Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater | Ticketed
- Movies at Rooftop Cinema Club – Select Days at 60 W 37th St 3rd Floor, New York | Ticketed
- Jesse McCartney – The Weightless Tour – October 4 at The Rooftop at Pier 17 (89 South Street, New York) | Ticketed
- FAD Market Fall Pop-Up at Empire Stores in Dumbo – October 4-5 at 55 Water Street, Brooklyn | Free admission
- Radegast Hall Oktoberfest – October 4 at 113 North 3rd Street Williamsburg, Brooklyn
- Andrea Bocelli Live! – October 5 at The Metropolitan Opera House (30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York) | Ticketed
- Beetlejuice The Musical – Starts on October 8 at The Palace Theater (160 W 47th St, New York) | Ticketed
- BAM Next Wave Festival – October 8, 2025-January 17, 2026 at multiple venues | Ticketed
- Kings County Fiber Festival – October 11 at The Old Stone House (Brooklyn) | Free admission
- Disability Pride Parade NYC – October 19 at Madison Square Park, 23rd to 26th Sts. (bet. Fifth and Madison Aves.) Manhattan
- The New Yorker Festival – October 24-26 at Webster Hall and the SVA Theatre | Ticketed
- Bronx Night Market – October 25 at Fordham Plaza (Bronx) | Free admission
- Diana Ross – Beautiful Love Tour – October 24 at St. George Theatre ( 35 Hyatt St, Staten Island) | Ticketed
- Van Gogh Floral Afternoon Tea – Until October 26 at Gotham Lounge | $135 per guest (not including tax or 18% gratuity)
Love live music? Find the full lineup of every must-catch show with our blog, A Guide to the Biggest Concerts in NYC This October (2025).
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