LUNGS, the network of Lower East Side community gardens, fills 30 of its green lots with more than 50 free events, from brass bands and Afro-Cuban folklore to opera, puppet theater and spoken word. The opening weekend kicks off with the Pressure Point Brass Band, and later dates bring Braiding Sweetgrass author Robin Wall Kimmerer. If you have never set foot inside Loisaida's gardens, this is the best excuse all year.
What to expect
Performances happen under trees and on makeshift stages inside gated neighborhood gardens, with folding chairs, neighbors and a few dozen people per show. You can hop between gardens a few blocks apart, catching a set at La Plaza Cultural and then a workshop at Green Oasis.
Good to know
- Take the F to Second Avenue or the L to First Avenue; most gardens sit between Avenues A and D.
- No tickets or registration are needed; just walk into the garden.
- Garden seating is limited and informal, so a small blanket or early arrival helps.
- Check the festival schedule for which garden hosts each act, since programs move around.
- A Kids Day with puppet theater makes part of the run a good family outing.
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Common questions
What is LUNGS?
LUNGS describes itself as the community gardens of New York City's Lower East Side, the coalition that organizes the festival.
Do I need tickets?
No. The organizers say every event is free with no tickets or registration.
Who is performing?
Highlights include the Pressure Point Brass Band on opening night and author Robin Wall Kimmerer later in the run.
