Broadway Invites Kids 18 and Under to Attend Shows Free This August

Broadway is rolling out the red carpet for its youngest audiences next month as the annual Kids’ Night on Broadway® returns to New York City. On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, children ages 18 and under can attend any of 18 participating Broadway shows for free, provided they are accompanied by a full-paying adult. The initiative, organized by The Broadway League, seeks to make live theater more accessible to young people and to inspire a lifelong love of the stage.

The celebration goes beyond the ticket offer. On the evening of August 19, Duffy Square in Times Square will host a lively pre-show gathering from 4:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Families are invited to join in free activities, meet cast members from participating shows, and enjoy an assortment of arts and crafts. The first 500 Kids’ Night on Broadway ticket holders to arrive at the square will receive a special tote bag and a freshly baked treat from Krispy Kreme, while supplies last.

This year’s roster of participating productions showcases Broadway’s diversity, from enduring favorites like Hamilton, The Lion King, Chicago, and Aladdin to new hits including Stranger Things: The First Shadow, The Outsiders, and MJ. The only exception in scheduling is The Great Gatsby, which will offer its Kids’ Night performance on Wednesday, August 20.

The evening isn’t confined to the theaters. Twenty-one restaurants in the Theatre District, as well as the Museum of Broadway, are extending exclusive offers to Kids’ Night ticketholders. Families can enjoy perks such as complimentary kids’ meals with the purchase of an adult entrée at renowned spots like Carmine’s Italian Restaurant, Hard Rock Cafe, and Shake Shack. To make the outing easier, discounted parking is available at Edison ParkFast (with promo code KIDSNIGHT25), helping families navigate the bustle of the city.

Since its launch in 1996, Kids’ Night on Broadway has brought over 200,000 children and teens to Broadway, fostering new generations of theatergoers. The program is a centerpiece of The Broadway League’s commitment to accessibility, audience development, and inclusivity in live theater. Tickets must be bought as pairs (one adult and one child), with the discount reflected equally across each ticket.

For complete details on participating shows, how to purchase tickets, dining options, and parking discounts, families can visit KidsNightonBroadway.com.

Quick Guide: Kids’ Night on Broadway® 2025

When: Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Who: Kids 18 and under attend free with a full-paying adult

Where: 18 Broadway shows across New York City

Kids’ Night on Broadway participating restaurants include: Applebee’s (42nd St.), Applebee’s (50th St.), Carmine’s Italian Restaurant Times Square, Carnegie Diner and Café (Times Square), Chicken Guy!, Churrascaria Plataforma, Dave & Busters Times Square, Ellen’s Stardust Diner, Glass House Tavern, Hard Rock Cafe, Havana Central, Le Rivage, Pink Taco, Planet Hollywood, Playwright Celtic Pub, Playwright Tavern, Popeyes Chicken, Schnipper’s, Shake Shack (619 8th Ave.), Sinigual, and Virgil’s Real BBQ.

Pre-Show Fun: Meet cast, arts & crafts, Krispy Kreme treats, and tote bags at Duffy Square (4:30–6:15 p.m.)

Special Note: The Great Gatsby Kids’ Night performance is August 20

Dining Deals: 21 Theatre District restaurants offer free kids’ meals with an adult entrée purchase

Parking: Discounted parking at Edison ParkFast (use code KIDSNIGHT25)

Tickets & Info: KidsNightonBroadway.com

Bring the family and make it a magical Broadway night!