Things to Do in New York This Weekend: Oct 9–11

Things to Do in New York This Weekend: Oct 9–11 City Guides
From Broadway's biggest productions to intimate jazz performances and experimental theater, New York's stages overflow with world-class entertainment across every genre and venue size.

Wycliffe Gordon brings trombone virtuosity to the Appel Room at Lincoln Center on Friday night, anchoring a weekend where the city’s cultural calendar stretches from Broadway’s grandest theaters to underground performance spaces and jazz clubs that have defined New York for decades.

Tip: code GTIX20 takes 20% off ticket prices on every event below — no minimum and no expiry.

The Lion King at the Minskoff Theatre

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · Minskoff Theatre · from $119

Julie Taymor’s visual spectacle remains one of Broadway’s most transportive experiences, with elaborate puppetry and African-inspired choreography that have captivated audiences for nearly three decades. The production’s scale and artistry make it a rite of passage for theater-goers visiting New York.

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Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · Gershwin Theatre · from $107

This reimagining of the Wizard of Oz story has become a cultural phenomenon, with soaring vocals and a narrative that reframes everything you thought you knew about Oz. The production’s emotional depth and spectacular staging justify its place as one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals.

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Wycliffe Gordon at the Appel Room

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · Appel Room at Lincoln Center · from $93

The trombonist’s virtuosic command of his instrument and deep roots in New Orleans jazz tradition make for an evening of sophisticated, swinging music at Lincoln Center’s intimate venue. Gordon’s ability to blend tradition with contemporary sensibility offers a masterclass in jazz performance.

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Thelonious Monk Birthday Celebration at Birdland Theatre

Fri, Oct 9, 5:30 PM · Birdland Theatre · from $54

Birdland honors the jazz legend with a night of performances celebrating Monk’s revolutionary compositions and uncompromising artistic vision. The venue’s legendary acoustics and the caliber of musicians drawn to this tribute create an unforgettable evening for jazz enthusiasts.

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The Outsiders at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theater

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · Bernard B. Jacobs Theater · from $131

This adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s classic novel brings the greasers and Socs to vivid life on stage, with a contemporary sensibility that speaks to timeless themes of class, identity, and belonging. The production’s energy and emotional resonance have made it a standout addition to Broadway’s current lineup.

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Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show at Studio 54

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · Studio 54 – NY · from $156

The cult classic returns to the legendary Studio 54 venue, where its campy humor and interactive spirit find their perfect home. This production captures the anarchic joy that has made Rocky Horror a participatory phenomenon for generations of theater-goers.

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Heathers – The Musical at New World Stages

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · New World Stages: Stage 1 · from $195

This darkly comic musical adaptation of the 1989 film brings sharp wit and contemporary sensibility to off-Broadway’s intimate stages. The production’s irreverent humor and clever score make it a standout for audiences seeking something edgier than mainstream Broadway fare.

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DJ Pauly D at The Rooftop at Pier 17

Fri, Oct 9, 6:00 PM · The Rooftop at Pier 17 · from $62

The electronic music veteran brings high-energy DJ sets to one of Manhattan’s most spectacular rooftop venues, with views of the East River and lower Manhattan skyline. The combination of Pauly D’s crowd-pleasing production and the venue’s atmosphere creates an unforgettable night out.

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Reggaeton on Houston at San Antonios

Fri, Oct 9, 5:00 PM · San Antonios · from $26

This celebration of reggaeton culture brings the infectious rhythms and vibrant energy of the genre to a downtown Manhattan venue. The night showcases the artistry and cultural significance of reggaeton, from its roots to its current global dominance.

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Akira Tana at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola

Fri, Oct 9, 7:00 PM · Dizzys Club Coca-Cola · from $88

The accomplished drummer and bandleader brings sophisticated jazz to one of New York’s premier jazz venues, nestled in the Time Warner Center with views overlooking Central Park. Tana’s ability to blend tradition with contemporary exploration makes for an evening of compelling, swinging music.

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Book tickets early—New York’s weekend fills quickly, especially for Broadway’s biggest productions and the city’s most intimate jazz rooms. Check dates and venues carefully, as showtimes vary across the weekend.