Free Shakespeare in the Park

Every summer the Public Theater stages free Shakespeare at the Delacorte Theater, an open-air amphitheater beside Turtle Pond and Belvedere Castle in Central Park, a tradition begun by Joseph Papp. Performances start as the light fades, and by the second act the stage is lit against the dark trees and the castle, with the occasional raccoon or helicopter adding its own commentary. The 2026 season, in the renovated Delacorte, staged Romeo and Juliet and The Winter's Tale.

Tickets are free and handed out on performance days through an in-person line at the Delacorte, a digital lottery and distributions in the other boroughs; you need a free Public Theater Patron ID, so register in advance. Lines form early on popular days, so bring a book and a picnic. Seating is assigned at random and groups may not sit together. Check the Public's site in spring for the 2027 season announcement.