Fun & Free in 2023
Free Things To Do Near Me
Here at OTL Seat Fillers, our members have fun things to do through free tickets to "paid" events. But everyone loves a good freebie, so we're launching a fun information page called Free Things To Do Near Me. We're scouring the news and sharing all kinds of complimentary opportunities and will continue to update this list throughout the year. So, this is one you'll want to bookmark!
Keep checking back for updates, or add your name to OTL's private email list.
And, if you're offering a freebie, send us the information so we can share it.
Ongoing - 2023
These opportunities are weekly, daily, or held regularly for over a month.
Costa Mesa, CA - Orange County Museum of Art
Weekly - Tuesday through Sunday (for the next 10 years!)
Discover the breathtaking collections at Orange County Museum of Art, now free for everyone over the next 10 years! With no reservations or special arrangements required, take a trip to discover all this museum has in store.
Open from Tuesday - Sunday with hours between 10 AM - 6 PM (Thursday to Saturday closing late at 8 PM), make sure you plan your visit accordingly and don't miss out on any masterpieces! Visit them today; they're located at 3333 Avenue of Arts in Costa Mesa, California.
May 2023
Yes, there are Memorial Day events in the US, but here's the inside scoop on upcoming free things to do in May - including 10,000 free tickets to the massive King Charles Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle (one of the OTL family's favorite places!).
Windsor, UK - King Charles Coronation Concert
7 May
More info to come. The 10,000-ticket giveaway runs until 28 February - jump down to February's listings for more information.
Madison, WI - Annual Girls Golf Day
May 7th
Mark your calendars, ladies: Girls Golf Day is coming to Madison on Sunday, May 7th! The Glen Golf Park will host this free event for young women ages 5-18.
Through the First Tee of South Central Wisconsin , over one hundred participants can look forward to attending five activity stations dedicated exclusively to health and safety in golfing. Get ready for a day of empowering fun with friends and learn more about becoming part of our awesome community because it's time to take charge of the course!
April 2023
Spring is in swing with free shows and events!
Washington DC - NEA Jazz Masters Tribute Concert at Kennedy Center
Join Mark Ruffin of Real Jazz on Saturday, April 1st, for an unforgettable evening celebrating the nation's highest honor in jazz - The 2023 NEA Jazz Masters Tribute Concert!
Tune into the live webcast and radio broadcast or be one of the lucky individuals to witness this free commemorative event at Washington DC’s Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater. Reserve your tickets beginning February 23rd starting at 10 am ET by either visiting kennedy-center.org, calling 202-467-4600/800-444-1324, or in person at the Box Office.
If you can't get hold of advance sale tickets, don't give up. Unclaimed seats are released 15 minutes before showtime!
March 2023
St. Patrick's Day offers all kinds of free things to do with parades and celebrations. But plenty more opportunities aren't scheduled for March 17th.
Boston, MA - Institute of Contemporary Art
Every Thursday evening
Every Thursday, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston opens its doors to offer a night full of exploration and culture. The last entry is at 8:30 PM - and be sure to head over after 5 PM for your general admission ticket!
You won't want to miss out on this fun and free thing to do, which includes access to all galleries on the fourth floor and current exhibitions. Tickets must be reserved online before 10 AM the day of --- don't wait until it's too late! Logging into or creating an account prior will make saving spots easier than ever, not to mention securing some prime opportunities that come along with reserving tickets early (hint… advance reservations are strongly recommended). See ya there!!
Meridian, MS - The Max
Every Thursday
Introducing Mini Maestros: a fun-filled opportunity for kids under five years old to explore their creativity and socialize with other young ones.
Taking place at The Max (Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience) in Meridian, Mississippi, every first and third Thursday of the month, this free event includes story time, snacks, games – plus lots of arts & crafts! Parents alike love how it allows children to learn and make friends along the way. Get your little one signed up today!
Hong Kong is Giving Away 500,000 Free Airline Tickets to Europeans
Throughout March
Hong Kong is determined to welcome European tourists back with open arms!
Starting in March and running for six months, the destination will give away an incredible 500,000 airline tickets. All up, these freebies are worth more than €250 million - amazing! 65% of them will come from local airlines Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and Hong Kong Airlines – either directly or through their agents. The remaining 35% have been reserved for partners within tourism-related sectors as another way to support travel into this dynamic city. Now let’s get planning that trip…
State of New York (for out-of-staters) - Free Snowmobiling Weekend
March 3-5
Winter is coming, and snowmobilers can get revved up to explore New York's 10,500 miles of trails this March! Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in March will be a promotional weekend for out-of-state and Canadian riders - with no registration requirement.
Stop by the NYS Snowmobile Association website or view maps from NY State Parks' page here. Don't miss your chance to hit those winter roads on two wheels (or four tracks) in scenic New York!
Sacramento, CA - Free Museum Weekend
March 4-5
This weekend is one of the best for anyone who loves museums but doesn't love the admission price.
Mark your calendar for Sacramento's Free Museum Weekend held on March 4th and 5th. Over 20 participating museums are allowing visitors free admission with advance tickets — but hurry because space is limited.
Reserve up to six spots in one group at sacmuseums.org starting February 21st.
LaGrange, GA - Free Family Movie Night
March 5th
Tyrone Poole, a two-time Super Bowl champion, is holding an exciting family movie night this March!
On Sunday the 5th at 4:00 pm, LaGrange's AMC theater will be rented out by Tyrone and his foundation so families can gather to watch Ant-Man and the Wasp together - free of cost! So don't miss your chance for a fun afternoon with loved ones; mark your calendars now and arrive at 3:45 pm on March 5th to get in on all the action.
To register for the event, visit https://my.forms.app/form/63e2934d6c5c2579e21fa06a/
Jacksonville, FL - The PLAYERS Championship Military & Veterans Appreciation
March 7-12
It has been a longstanding tradition for the PLAYERS to honor military members, veterans, and their families, and 2023 is no different. Complimentary admission, concession vouchers, and a Military Appreciation Concert featuring Riley Green are all part of the festivities.
If you're in the Jacksonville area, be sure to visit the Military Appreciation page on the PLAYERS website, so you take advantage of the entire package!
Houston, TX - Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Community Day (free admission) - March 8th
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is making having a day of fun with the family easier. They announced plans for Community Day on March 8th, sponsored by TC Energy, with free grounds admission until noon, including access to carnivals, rides, games, and discounted food and beverages!
Get out among animals at the livestock show or take part in all attractions inside NRG Center & Arena; there's something for everyone during Community Day. So, don't miss your chance to get savings while experiencing everything this popular yearly event has to offer.
Aiken, SC - Movie in the Park
March 11th
Get your lawn chairs and blankets ready! The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department is hosting a fun-filled "Movie in the Park" event at Beverly D. Clyburn Generations Park on Saturday, March 11th, to show Disney's popular movie 'Encanto'.
Don't miss out -- start time for this family-friendly outdoor screening is 10 minutes after sunset, around 6:30 pm. Don’t forget to bring a little cash to buy some snacks from Celebrations or Whipped Creamery food trucks that will be available on-site too!
Atlanta, GA - Free Movie Tickets to Shazam! Fury of the Gods
March 15th
Get ready to SHAZAM into action! Zachary Levi and team sweep you away with an amazing adventure against the vengeful Daughters of Atlas in Shazam! Fury of the Gods is coming to theaters near you in March 2023.
However, if you're located near Atlanta, Georgia—you get first dibs on this ultimate superhero experience as FanBolt is giving away tickets for a private screening on March 15th. Don't miss out on your chance to join in all the super fun before anyone else does.
Find more details about the ticket giveaway at Fanbolt.
Best Arts & Entertainment Awards Guide - 2023
Top 10 Ways To Get Free Tickets to Shows, Events, and More
How To Get Free Seat Filler Tickets
San Antonio, TX - Sweet 'n Green Free Tree Giveaway
March 18
San Antonio Parks and Recreation is bringing their A-game with a fun event to benefit the community! Fruit Trees are given out for free at Sweet-n-Green, an exciting gathering on March 18th beginning at 8 am. You won't want to miss this chance - each household can grab one of 850 trees for FREE without leaving your car!
Let's get jammin' (or should we say 'fruitin') in Nelson Wolff Stadium.
Fort Wayne, IN - Sensory-Friendly Art Show
March 20
It's time to celebrate the artistic talents of our children! Join Bierman Autism Centers – Fort Wayne for a free Art Show and Gallery Event on Monday, March 20th from 5-7 pm.
Come explore an array of artworks made by kids at the center plus get involved in interactive activities with your family. Refreshing snacks will also be available during this special evening dedicated to observing the beauty crafted through creativity! We hope you can join us — 12938 Coldwater Road, Fort Wayne IN 46845 is where it all kicks off - RSVP on the Facebook page.
New York, NY - Kids Night On Broadway
March 21 (and other dates across the country)
Take your little ones (and not-so-little ones) to the theater with Kids’ Night on Broadway! This fun event lets kids and teens 18 and under attend a select Broadway show for FREE when accompanied by an adult with a full-price ticket.
Not only that, you can even get discounts at participating restaurants too. Plus, there will be special in-theater activities just for kiddos, like talkbacks, activity books & more! Get ready - tickets are now available for NYC's Kids' Night taking place Tuesday, March 21st, 2023 (with events held throughout the year in other cities!).
This is an official program of the Broadway League. And, yes, Hamilton is one of the participating shows!
Pasadena, CA - America's Got Talent Live Taping
March 23-30
Don't miss your chance to witness some of America's most captivating talent at NBC’s hit show live and in person!
Host Terry and the star-studded judging panel, including Simon, Sofia, Heidi & Howie will be there in person for an incredible experience. From singers and dancers to comedians and contortionists, a vibrant array of performers have one common goal: winning viewers' hearts with skillful performances. Oh, and to walk away $ 1 million richer! Grab some free tickets now, so you get the fun of being there live and in person!
America's Got Talent Taping Schedule
- Thu 23 – 12:00 pm
- Thu 23 – 4:00 pm
- Sat 25 – 12:00 pm
- Sat 25 – 4:00 pm
- Sun 26 – 12:00 PM
- Sun 26 – 4:00 pm
- Tue 28 – 12:00 pm
- Tue 28 – 4:00 pm
- Wed 29 – 12:00 pm
- Wed 29 – 4:00 pm
- Thu 30 – 12:00 pm
- Thu 30 – 4:00 pm
Brookhaven, GA - Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival
March 25-26
Music lovers on a budget rejoice - the Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival is coming to Blackburn Park for two days of festival fun and free tunes from some familiar faces.
It's a Music and Arts Extravaganza!
Pop favorites Hanson (remember "MMMBop"?), Don McLean ("American Pie"), and Deep Blue Something ("Breakfast at Tiffany's"), plus indie rockers Band Of Horses and The Fray, are headlining, thanks to a $250,000 city investment! Get ready for unforgettable performances of all your favorite hits - you won't want to miss out on this amazing (and FREE!) event on March 25th & 26th.
February 2023 - Free Things To Do Near Me
We're starting our Fun and Free in 2023 list at the end of February. So, there aren't as many opportunities, but we still found some freebies in the last week of the month.
Wrexham, Wales - Wrexham AFC Racecourse Live Free Ticketing Scheme
2022/2023 Season
Wrexham AFC is committed to making football more accessible for supporters, especially those impacted by the current cost of living crisis. So, they are providing free tickets to home games in the 2022/23 season at Racecourse Live!
All you have to do is head on over to Wrexham's official website and fill out an individual or group application form- no questions asked! Grab your friends or family members who can't usually make it: now's a chance like never before for everyone around Wrexham (and beyond). Join in all the excitement at The Racecourse Ground.
Windsor, UK - King Charles Coronation Concert 10,000-Ticket Giveaway
Event is on 7 May - Ticket Giveaway in February
Don't miss out on your chance to experience a truly spectacular event: the coronation concert for King Charles III!
The live televised celebration will feature global music stars and an orchestra, with 10,000 free tickets up for grabs. All you have to do is fill in the form at Ticketmaster before February 28 - so what are you waiting for? Mark this grand occasion in style (and in person) on the 7th of May outside of Windsor Castle!
Mount Vernon, VA - Free Admission to Mount Vernon
February 20th and 22nd
Want to explore history without spending a dime? On Presidents Day and George Washington's birthday, you can experience the life of our first president for free! Admission tickets are available onsite at his home estate in Mount Vernon.
Explore everything from original structures like the mansion or tomb of George & Martha Washington to interactive spaces such as workshops where you'll gain insight into GW’s innovative business empire. Don't miss this opportunity – celebrate with us among American heritage sites steeped in culture & tradition!
Visit the official Mount Vernon website for more information.
Norwich, NY - Free Family Movie Tickets
February 20th
Calling all Norwich youth! You're invited to an unforgettable adventure at the Colonia Theater on Monday, February 20th.
The City of Norwich Youth Bureau is making it possible for you to view a free showing of “Paws of Fury: The Legend Of Hank" - and trust us when we say this one's worth seeing. Follow brave pup Hank as he rises up from humble beginnings as a hound dog into becoming a skilled samurai …all to protect an adorable town full of cats under threat by evil forces intent on wiping them off the map!
Tickets are complimentary, so don't miss your chance. Head over to 1 City Plaza in Norwich and scoop up yours before they’re gone!
Reading, PA - Talk to a Therapist Event
February 21st
On Tuesday, February 21st, from 3 pm to 5 pm, head to Reading Public Library's main branch for a chance to get informed on free early childhood intervention services!
Right Start Children’s Services will be there with qualified therapists ready and willing to answer any questions you may have about speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or behavioral support available for children up until age three. Empower yourself and your family by taking advantage of this free event - no registration is required.
London - Mandalorian Pop-Up in Piccadilly Circus
February 22-23
Step into a galaxy far, far away, and experience The Forge!
A unique pop-up venue right beneath the iconic Piccadilly Lights will transport Star Wars fans to the world of The Mandalorian. Visit on either Wednesday, 22nd, or Thursday, 23rd February, for an immersive journey complete with sights, sounds, and smells that capture this classic spin-off series.
Fans can even wield their very own Darksaber — legendary weapons forged by Mandolorians from generations past — while having photos taken by droid photographers. It's all in celebration of season three's release! Don't miss out – join us at The Forge as we celebrate one of sci-fi's most beloved franchises together.
It's a free event, but reservations are recommended.
Bozeman, MT - Museum of the Rockies
February 25th
Montana State University's Museum of the Rockies is throwing a Montana Day on Saturday, February 25th - and all Montanans are invited! Admission for everyone will be free from 9 am to 5 pm.
Peruse two unique exhibits created just for this event- or explore cultural and natural history exhibitions with friends & family if that’s more your speed. Not into roaming through collections? Check out kid-friendly activities in the planetarium or pick something special up at their gift shop – thanks to U.S Bank, it won't cost you anything extra!
Atascadero, CA - Chamber Music on the Coast - SLO Wind Orchestra
February 26th
Experience the magical sounds of symphonic wind band music with the fantastic members of the SLO Wind Orchestra!
On Sunday, February 26th, at 3 pm, they will be performing their renowned "Chamber Music on The Coast" concert, delighting audiences throughout San Luis Obispo County and celebrating its 23rd year in existence.
This free event will feature a variety of pieces from celebrated composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, plus Vaughn-Williams, something for everyone to enjoy! Don't miss your chance to witness this historic performance taking place at Atascadero United Methodist Church (11605 El Camino Real).