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Step 1
Though tickets are free for Shakespeare in the Park, actually obtaining them can be a chore. Tickets go on sale at 1PM the day of the show (all shows begin at 8PM). But, don't think you can show up at 1PM and get a ticket. Free can take a little bit of work, but it's worth it.
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Step 2
You can get your free tickets at the Delacorte Theatre in Central Park or at The Public Theatre near Astor Place.
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Step 3
The Delacorte Theatre is located on the southern end of Central Park. If you're coming from the east side, you should enter the park at 79th Street and 5th Ave. If you're coming from the west, enter at 81st Street and Central Park West.
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Step 4
The Public Theatre is downtown at 425 Lafayette Street, just south of Astor Place.
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Step 5
For weekend shows you should get to Central Park no later than 6AM. Central Park opens at 6AM and people will already be in line even this early in the morning.
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Step 6
If you think that waking up with the roosters and standing in line for 7 hours for free theatre tickets is crazy think again. The Delacorte Theatre is inside Central Park, so it's easy to make your wait feel more like a morning picnic in the park. Bring snacks, coffee, books, games, blankets, and anything else that will keep you comfortable and busy for the long wait.
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Step 7
Bring a group of friends with you and make it a morning outing. You can take turns taking bathroom breaks, throwing the frisbee, and stretching your legs. It's a New York City pastime; everyone should try it at least once.
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Step 8
The Public Theatre has staff monitoring the lines starting at 10AM. People who arrive after this time cannot join you in line, but they are welcome to keep you company.
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Step 9
Each person is allowed to pick up 2 tickets. For example, if you have 4 friends in line with you, you can get 8 tickets.
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Step 10
Tickets are handed out at 1PM. After you get your tickets go home and take a power nap to prepare for the show that night.
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Step 11
The show starts at 8PM. Get there about 15 minutes before show time and bring a picnic. You are allowed to bring food and drink (including alcohol) into the theatre as long as you don't have glass. Show lasts about 3 hours and includes an intermission. Enjoy the show!
