Union Square is the gathering ground between uptown, downtown, eastside and west. It’s like the Noah’s Ark of New York, pulling at least two of every kind from the city’s concrete seas. Join the intricate urban network of farmers, shoppers, skateboarders, loiterers and activists – it’s a riot.
Protest Park
Union Square wasn’t originally intended to be a people’s park – an iron fence enclosed the space from its opening in 1839 until 1872. Yet its name became something of a prophecy. In 1882, roughly 10,000 workers joined forces here, calling for "less work and more pay" – marking the first Labor Day parade in the US.
Social and political protest became central to Union Square’s identity in the coming decades. Walk along the southern border, and you’ll likely see activists rallying today. Even if you don’t hear a demonstration, there’s always a silent protest at play. Look south for proof, where a ten-story building reveals a so-called Climate Clock. In 2020, the digital display began counting down how much time the world has left to get climate change under control before its impacts become even more severe.
Farm Fresh
Despite the park’s history of protest, produce is now the main attraction. Farmers, bakers and craft makers from the tristate area peddle their wares at the Union Square Greenmarket – the largest in town. In peak season, 140 vendors crowd around the north and west sides of the park, selling a smorgasbord to roughly 60,000 shoppers. There’s plenty of fare for at-home chefs (fresh veggies, meats and artisanal cheeses), along with selections perfect for an outdoor picnic (fruits, breads, sweets and ciders).
After finding your food, head to the benches along the park’s green square or grab one of the many metal picnic tables scattered about. When it comes to people-watching, there’s no bad seat in the house.
Holiday Cheer
Union Square’s market is delightful year-round, but in late autumn, it gets downright jolly. From mid-November to December 24, the park is home to the Holiday Market – a European-style Christmas bazaar with tiny huts selling assorted gifts. The scene is particularly charming at night, when you can stroll underneath twinkling fairy lights to find one-of-a-kind creations while sipping hot chocolate.
