East 121st Street at Park Avenue sits right under the Metro-North viaduct, which has defined that part of East Harlem for over a century and is slowly being reimagined. A tenant association block party there closes the street for the afternoon and gives the buildings a shared space they otherwise do not have. Free, entirely resident-run, and one of dozens across the city on the same day.
What to expect
Expect barricades at each end, folding tables and grills at the kerb, a sound system on the pavement and children using the roadway. The Metro-North viaduct runs along Park Avenue beside the block, so trains passing overhead are part of the soundtrack. Everything is at street level and nothing is ticketed.
Good to know
- East 121st Street near Park Avenue in East Harlem, a walk from the 125th Street subway stops and local M bus routes.
- Free and open to the public — it is a permitted public event, so no ticket or RSVP is involved.
- The block closes to traffic for the afternoon.
- Flat and level once closed, fully stroller accessible.
- Bring water and sun protection for the open street.
- The 125th Street corridor with its shops and restaurants is a few blocks north.
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Common questions
Where is it?
On East 121st Street near Park Avenue in East Harlem, Manhattan.
How do I get there?
Local M bus routes serve Park Avenue, with the 125th Street subway stops a walk north.
Is there a charge?
No — block parties are free, permitted street events open to anyone who walks up.
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