Ways to Enjoy Free and Discounted Music, Shows and More in NJ

Snag deals on concerts, theater performances and museum admission.

“Transformed Objects Reimagined by American Artists" at the Montclair Art Museum
“Transformed Objects Reimagined by American Artists” is one of the exhibits you can see for free at the Montclair Art Museum on the first Thursday of every month. Photo courtesy of Peter Jacobs

Music & more

SAVE AT THE SYMPHONY

In an effort to entice a new generation of music enthusiasts, the New Jersey Symphony, based in Newark, is offering residents ages 21–40 a great deal. Join the New Jersey Symphony Young Friends program at no cost and snag tickets for some of the best seats in the house priced between $35 and $45. —SV

ENJOY DISCOUNTED EVENTS

It’s been 25 years since the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark opened its doors, and this premier cultural organization is celebrating its anniversary by offering the public $25 tickets to select shows—from jazz great Terence Blanchard to ballet from the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine and lectures from astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson—all year long. Bravo! —SV

Theater

PAY WHAT YOU CAN

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey welcomes younger audiences with its $30 Under 30 program for every performance. Over 30? The Madison theater, which specializes in presenting Shakespeare’s canon—and made NJM’s 52 Things You Must Do in New Jersey list—also reserves pay-what-you-can tickets for every performance (except opening nights) on a first-come, first-served basis. —Deborah P. Carter

Luna Stage is a small but mighty venue that produces innovative local and global content, including readings, film screenings, interactive experiences and traditional productions. All shows are pay-what-you-choose. —DPC

GRAB CHEAP SEATS

From musicals to classics, Two River Theater puts on a diverse roster of performances that patrons under 35 can purchase for $25. For the general public, a limited number of $25 seats (some with partial views) are also available. —DPC

Museums

GET PASSES AT THE LIBRARY

Local libraries are good for more than just books. Many libraries around the Garden State also participate in museum-pass programs, through which you can get discounted, if not totally free, visits to a local museum or attraction. Museum passes vary from library to library, so check with yours; the easiest way to find out is to ask your librarians, who are more than willing to help. At many county libraries, reserving a museum pass is as easy as putting a hold on the latest novel you can’t wait to get your hands on. —Shelby Vittek

SNAG FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION

On the first Thursday of every month, the Montclair Art Museum welcomes visitors of all ages at no cost. The museum’s Free First Thursdays includes admission, talks, music and other activities. Enjoy a gallery tour of exhibits like “Transformed Objects Reimagined by American Artists” from MAM’s permanent collection, as well as current exhibitions. While attendance is free, advance registration is recommended. —SV
973-746-555

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF MEMBER BENEFITS

When you sign up to become a member of any of the dozens of Jersey-based museums that are part of the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association network, you get access to them all. The program includes 23 arts historical and cultural institutions around the Garden State, and more than 1,000 institutions in four countries. Benefits include free admission and shop discounts at participating museums, such as the Morris Museum in Morristown, the Princeton University Art Museum, the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford, and Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center in Millville. —SV

CHECK OUT NEWARK’S ARTS SCENE

Part festival, part art walk, part market, Newark First Fridays have a little bit of something for everyone. On the first Friday of every month, a host of artists, food vendors, musicians and performers come together to showcase all the Brick City has to offer. Attendees can look forward to exclusive deals on art and admission to spots such as Akwaaba Gallery and Brick City Comedy Revue. —SV

Want more ways to live the luxe life for less in New Jersey? Check out more tips and tricks for saving on everything from entertainment to your taxes in the Garden State.


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