Things to Do in NYC This Week (January 5-11): Jazzfest & Parades

The first full week of January always feels like hitting the reset button, and suddenly the city seems a little quieter, a little colder, and a lot more tempting to explore at your own pace. That’s exactly why this guide to things to do in NYC this week (January 5-11) is perfect if you’re looking for fun without the holiday chaos. Maybe you’re easing back into your routine, or perhaps you’re still in that “new year, new outside life” mindset. Either way, this list helps you find events that bring a bit of excitement to those post-holiday days.

Before you head out, please quickly confirm the final details on the official event page. While entry is free, remember that you might need a simple RSVP and that all food, drinks, or activities are separate purchases.

Free Fun Events & Activities

Coney Island Polar Bear Club New Year’s Day Plunge

*Photo by* *Dan Turkewitzvia* *@coney_island_polarbear_club/ Instagram*

If jumping into freezing ocean water sounds like your idea of a celebration, you’ll fit right in with the Coney Island Polar Bear Club. Consider it research for things to do in NYC for young adults… but with way colder waves.

When: January 1, 2026
Where: Coney Island (Surf Avenue, Brooklyn)
Tickets: Free to join (but interested participants are encouraged to fundraise at least $30)
Best for: Thrill-seekers and friend groups.

Three Kings Day Parade

*Photo by* *Michale Palma Mirvia* *@elmuseo/ Instagram*

This vibrant celebration brings music, puppets, community leaders dressed as kings, and thousands of locals together for a cultural tradition filled with joy. It’s one of those things to do in NYC this weekend–style picks… except better weather and more camels.

When: January 6, 2026
Where: El Museo del Barrio (1230 Fifth Ave., Manhattan)
Tickets: Free to watch
Best for: Families, culture lovers, and anyone who loves a good parade.

Bryant Park Winter Village

Holiday markets are wrapping up soon, so grab a hot cider and stroll through the festive shops while you still can. The massive skating rink is free if you bring your own skates, making it one of the rare things to do in NYC this weekend for free.

When: Winter Village – Until March 1, 2026 / Holiday Market – Until January 4, 2026
Where: 41st Street and 6th Ave, New York
Tickets: Free and paid
Best for: Ice skating dates, winter wanderers, and souvenir hunters.

Paid & Ticketed Things To Do

Brooklyn Nets Home Games

Catch some fast-paced basketball and fresh talent inside the Barclays Center. It’s loud, it’s electric, and it gives big festivals in NYC this weekend energy… just with slam dunks.

When: January 1, 4, 7, 9, 16, 19, & 23, 2026
Where: Barclays Center (620 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn)
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: Sports fans, group hangs, and Brooklyn pride.

Under the Radar Festival

If you love indie theater, boundary-pushing ideas, and the occasional “wait… what did I just watch?”, this festival should be on your radar immediately. It’s like those quirky things to do in NYC this weekend with family.

When: January 7-25, 2026
Where: Multiple venues
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://utrfest.org
Best for: Theater buffs, creatives, and adventurous minds.

Winter Jazzfest

*Photo via* *@gabisaplanaand* *@nycwjf* */ Instagram*

Live jazz everywhere. From intimate lounges to major venues, dozens of shows fill the city all week. Compared to things to do in NYC today, this is a full-on music marathon.

When: January 8-13, 2026
Where: Multiple venues
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: Music lovers and date nights.

PBR Monster Energy Buck Off at MSG

It’s a rodeo… in Manhattan. Fireworks, bull riding, and adrenaline that’ll shake your seat. It’s far bolder than the usual things to do in NYC for free, but you’ll have a blast pretending you’re in the Wild West.

When: January 9-11, 2026
Where: Madison Square Garden (4 Penn Plaza, Manhattan)
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: High-octane entertainment and loud nights out.

Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park

*Photo via* *@brooklynbridgepark/ Instagram*

Skating with some of the best skyline views in the world. It’s Brooklyn at its most romantic, especially when the lights of the bridge sparkle over the ice.

When: Until February 1, 2026
Where: Emily Warren Roebling Plaza, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: Couples, photographers, and outdoor winter dates.

Holiday Express: Jerni Train Collection

Vintage toy trains, tiny towns, twinkling lights—basically pure holiday charm packed into a museum gallery. Rail fans and kids? They’ll be obsessed.

When: Until February 22, 2026
Where: The New York Historical (170 Central Park West, Manhattan)
Tickets: Click here.
Best for: Indoor family fun, slow-paced outings, and hobby lovers.

Skate at Domino Park

*Photo by* *@radhikachalasanivia* *@dominopark/ Instagram*

DJ nights, performances, themed parties… this isn’t just skating, it’s a mini-festival that keeps the waterfront buzzing well into winter.

When: Until February 22, 2026
Where: 15 River St, Brooklyn
Price: Click here.
Best for: Social skaters, nightlife hangouts, and birthday ideas.

Wollman Rink in Central Park

*Photo via* *@wollmanrinknyc/ Instagram*

The postcard winter moment. Tall skyline, twinkling lights, and gliding on ice in the heart of the park. Iconic for a reason.

When: Until March 15, 2026
Where: 830 5th Ave, New York
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://wollmanrinknyc.com
Best for: First-time visitors, sweet dates, and wholesome winter memories.

Other Events/Activities to Check Out

Christmas Carousel – Until January 6 at Greeley Square (33rd Street and Broadway) Ticketed
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards – Until January 7 in New York City | Free admission
New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show – Until January 11 at 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx | Ticketed
Gottesman Rink at the Davis Center – Until March 8, 2026 at the East side of Central Park (between 106th and 108th Streets) | Ticketed

Want to stay warm and look good doing it?

If you’re heading out to any of these events, you’ll want to know what actually works in a real New York winter. Check out What to Wear for an NYC Winter: A Local’s 5 Secrets to Staying Warm & Stylish guide for practical tips, layering tricks, and easy outfit combos that keep you cozy and camera-ready.

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