"Good Morning.  This is Mayor Mike Bloomberg.

"The holiday season is in full swing – and there’s no more exciting place to spend it than in New York City.  Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have lived here your entire life, you’ll never run out of things to see and do.  And just because the economy is in a downturn doesn’t mean we have to stop taking advantage of all the amazing things that make New York New York.

"In fact, this is the perfect time.  When the national recession hit, I directed my commissioners and agency heads to help New Yorkers by drawing up activities and events to fit a tight budget.  And thanks to their hard work, there’s something remarkable you and your family can see and do every day, in every way.  A lot of it’s very inexpensive – less than the price of a movie ticket – and much of it is completely free.

"Earlier this week, I also asked people on Twitter for their suggestions – and I got back a great response.  For instance, someone calling herself ‘StefShoe’ loves walking over the Brooklyn Bridge.  I do too, especially if there’s a slice of Grimaldi’s pizza waiting at the other end. ‘RatherBeBiking’ lived up to his name, and suggested a bike ride up the Hudson and into the Bronx.  And ‘NYCsidewalker’ enjoys browsing the holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue and the free Fridays at MoMA.

"NYC Sidewalker is definitely onto something – because there are lots of museums and institutions that offer free hours throughout the week.  The Brooklyn Botanic Garden, for example, is free all day on Tuesdays.  The Bronx Zoo is free on Wednesdays.  The New York Hall of Science in Queens is free for part of Friday afternoons and Sunday mornings.  The Staten Island Children’s Museum also has regularly-scheduled free hours.

"Don’t forget that many other institutions, like the Met, also offer a suggested admission – which means you can pay as little, or as much, as you can afford.  And we really mean that.  It’s all there for you; that’s part of the commitment that museums, theaters, and others make to be welcoming to audiences.

"For a comprehensive list of free events and activities, check out the City’s website at nyc.gov.  Our Cultural Affairs Department has created a special calendar that let’s you search for whatever strikes your fancy – be it holiday concerts or outdoor events.  And don’t forget to visit our parks and recreation centers – another great venue for free and low-cost winter fun.

"Of course, one of the most inexpensive and meaningful ways to have a good time this winter is through volunteering.  The organization, Room to Grow, for instance, is looking for people to help organize their inventory of infant and toddler clothing and toys.  And the group, Children for Children, is seeking help making fleece scarves, which will be distributed at food banks. 

"Call 311 or visit the NYC Service website at nyc.gov to find out about more opportunities.  Volunteering your time to others is fun and doesn’t cost a thing – but the rewards you get in return really are priceless.

"This is Mayor Mike Bloomberg.  Thanks for listening, and Happy Holidays."