One of New York’sgreat public spaces, Union Square was a meeting point for impassioned activistswho campaigned for civil and women’s rights and protested the Vietnam War.Today it’s alive with activity of a more commercial kind.
If social activism isUnion Square’s legacy, food is its future. In the last few years, the area hasbecome renowned for the Greenmarket where New Yorkers flock to buy freshproduce direct from more than 100 regional farmers. Held every Monday,Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, the market is an excellent spot to grab a gourmetsnack. In September, sample one of the many tasting dishes on offer at Harvestin the Square, a one-night celebration of food and wine when chefs from popularlocal restaurants whip up creations from regional produce.
Aswith many open-air attractions in New York City, what’s available depends onthe season. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, browse the holiday markets,which are similar to the Greenmarket but with handmade ornaments, clothes, toysand jewelry. In the summer months, look for the free events, including fitnessand yoga classes, baby discos for the younger family members and performancesof salsa or hip-hop music.
A simple walking tourof Union Square holds its own highlights, too the space has four importantmemorials, including a bronze equestrian statue of America’s first president,George Washington — the oldest sculpture in the New York City Parks collection.
Locatedjust above the hip 14th Street thoroughfare in Downtown Manhattan and servicedby the city’s third largest subway station, Union Square is still a platformfor free speech, with regular demonstrations and impromptu performances. It’sname, however, is actually a nod to the square’s central location at the unionof Broadway and Park Avenue. Union Square is easily accessible by bus orsubway.
