For ten days the gardens of Loisaida become stages, and the closing weekend brings a kids' day at El Jardin del Paraiso with the Czechoslovak-American Marionette Theatre, Bengali puppets and Son Pecadores. Friday's program features Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of Braiding Sweetgrass, and La Plaza Cultural hosts a daylong book fair. If you want a harvest festival that is pure neighborhood, free and walkable garden to garden, this is it.
What to expect
Pick up the schedule and wander between gardens tucked behind fences on Avenues B and C and the side streets. Each garden hosts its own program, from puppet shows and folk music to readings and workshops, with neighbors on benches and kids up front. Events are small and informal, so you can drop in and move on.
Good to know
- Every event is free, with no tickets or registration.
- Check the full schedule on the LUNGS site; programs are spread across 30-plus gardens.
- Gardens are small, so popular performances fill quickly.
- The F to Second Avenue and the L to First Avenue get you closest.
- Great for families: the closing weekend includes a dedicated kids' day.
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Common questions
Does the Harvest Arts Festival cost anything?
No. LUNGS says every event is free, with no tickets or registration.
Where does it happen?
In more than 30 community gardens across the Lower East Side and East Village, including La Plaza Cultural and El Jardin del Paraiso.
Is it good for kids?
Yes. The festival includes a kids' day with marionettes, puppets, music and dance.
