New York City summers are always filled with amazing events and celebrations. One of the best falls on the first three Saturdays in August, right in the full swing of the season. Definitely make some time to check out this unique festivity.
WHO?
NYC Summer Streets is hosted by the New York City Department of Transportation, with support from various other City agencies and organizations.
WHAT?
This annual event is meant to celebrate New York City’s most important public space- the streets themselves. For 3 days this August, 7 miles of roadway throughout the city will be closed off to vehicles, and opened for people to walk, run, bike and play. Modeled after various other events around the world- from Colombia to France– all activities throughout the day are completely free of charge and meant to be experienced by all ages and ability levels. The success of Summer Streets has even inspired similar trends in London and Chile.
The activities will take place at one of 5 rest stops along the way. The rest of the space is meant for strolling, biking, etc. Some of the activities include Zip-lining, Juggling, Outdoor Chess, Yoga, Zumba, Rock Climbing, Obstacle Courses, Bike Rentals, Skate Rentals, Musical Performances, Historical Walking Tours, Quiz Games, Arts & Crafts and so much more!
WHEN?
The event takes place on the first three consecutive Saturdays in August- the 4th, 11th and 18th. Starting at 7:00 am and going until 1:00 pm.
Since the pathway is so easily accessible, you can stay as long or short as you’d like.
WHERE?
Summer Streets goes from Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park, following Park Avenue and other connecting streets. Starting downtown, at the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge, by the intersection of Centre and Chambers Street, the route follows Centre Street for 2 blocks and then merges onto Lafayette Street- following Lafayette until it turns into 4th Avenue. The path continues on 4th Avenue for about 4 blocks until you hit Union Square, advancing up the east side of Union Square Park onto Park Avenue. From there, the celebration stays on Park Avenue until 72nd Street, making a left along 72nd and finishing at 5th Avenue and 72nd Street, right at the East Side of Central Park. You can enter the pathway by foot almost anywhere, there is easy access from all points in the city.
The rest stops will be located at Foley Square, SoHo (@ Lafayette between Spring and Kenmare), Astor Place, Midtown (@Park Avenue between 24th and 25th) and Uptown (@ Park Avenue between 51st and 53rd).
Check out the map below for a general overview and the location of rest stops!
WHY?
Besides the space to walk freely along some of the city’s most traffic-heavy streets, Summer Streets creates a rare opportunity for fun and healthy recreation. It also encourages the use of more sustainable forms of transportation such as biking, running, skating, etc. In past years, hundreds of thousands of people have participated in the event, taking advantage of the open streets- this year could include you! What better way to make the most of NYC?
