NYC - Best Things to Do Tonight & This Weekend

The weather in New York City has finally started to cool down, and now we can finally participate in fall festivities without wondering why our Pumpkin Spice Frappuccinos are melting. There's always something to do in the City That Never Sleeps, so if you're having a hard time deciding on the big "What should I do tonight?" question, we've got you covered.

Here's a list of our top picks for things to do this weekend, Friday, Oct. 20, through Sunday, Oct. 22.

Related: The Best Things to Do in October Across the U.S.

Things to Do Tonight in NYC

Brooklyn Historical Society's Free Friday

Uncover Brooklyn’s forgotten history at tonight’s Free Friday event. Sip on Brooklyn Brewery beer and learn more about the borough’s fascinating past through word find puzzles, lectures, and a special beatboxing performance.

Brooklyn Historical Society, Brooklyn Heights; 5pm-9pm; Free

Gravesend Inn Haunted Hotel

Produced by the New York City College of Technology group Theatreworks, this annual high-tech haunted hotel opened Thursday for the Halloween season. This “theme-park quality Halloween attraction” is filled with hidden sensors that will trigger a series of spine-tingling scares and surprises.

Voorhees Theatre, Brooklyn; Friday, 10am-3pm and 6pm-9pm; Saturday, 1pm-5pm and 6pm-9pm; $10

Late-night Screening of "Hocus Pocus"

Tonight marks the opening night in the IFC Center’s weeklong revival of this Halloween cult classic. For only $15, you can join in on the adventures of Max, Dani, and Allison as they try to save the town of Salem, Mass. from the evil Sanderson witches.

IFC Center, West Village; 10pm and 12:10am; $15

Saturday NYC Events

Giant Pumpkin Weekend

North America’s largest pumpkin is coming all the way from Washington State to the New York Botanical Garden this weekend. More ginormous pumpkins will join this 2,363-pound giant, along with the world’s largest squash and longest gourd. Meet the growers during a Q&A session and don’t miss out on your chance to take a photo to impress your friends.

New York Botanical Garden, the Bronx; 10am-6pm; $23

27th Annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade

What could be more adorable than hundreds of dogs dressed up in Halloween costumes? Dress up your golden retriever on October 21 and participate in the “country’s largest Halloween Costume Parade for dogs.” Luckily you don’t need a dog to attend what is sure to be the cutest event of the Halloween season.

Tompkins Square Park, East Village; Noon-3pm; Free

Sunday NYC Activities

Blue Bottle Coffee Cupping

Head to Blue Bottle's new location in Bushwick for a free coffee tasting class. Explore, identify, and enjoy different varieties of brewed coffee in this caffeine-fueled event.

Blue Bottle Coffee, Bushwick; 2pm-3pm; Free

"Halloweentown" + Pumpkin Carving

Carve pumpkins as you watch this classic Disney Channel Halloween movie starring the late Debbie Reynolds. Your ticket includes a pumpkin, carving knife, and tea candle.

Videology, Williamsburg; 7:45pm; $30