One of New York City’s most iconic farmers markets is marking a major milestone this week. GrowNYC will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Union Square Greenmarket with a free public “birthday party” on Friday, July 31, featuring live jazz, a ceremonial cake-cutting and food from several popular local vendors.
The event will occur on Friday, July 31, beginning at 4 p.m. and concluding at 8 p.m.
Music will be provided by the Jazz Foundation, after which a short celebratory program will commence. The cake-cutting is scheduled for 6 p.m.
Food and drinks, provided by restaurants Long Count, Osteria 57, Cmartys Jerk, Brooklynn Curry Project, Lighthouse BK, Breads Bakery, and Abigail’s Kitchen will be available for purchase.
The origins of the Union Square Greenmarket go back to 1976. A small collective of farmers established a market in Union Square to sell their greens directly. The market blossomed into one of the city’s most frequented food destinations over the following decades. Through local food and fresh produce, the Greenmarket has served as a vital connection between regional farmers and millions for New Yorkers ever since, according to the birthday event planners.
The Greenmarket is located at North Plaza, 17th Street and Park Avenue. For those curious about receiving live updates, including schedule changes due to weather, the link to RSVP can be found via Eventbrite.