New York's Pakistani community marks independence with a run of parades and street festivals every August, and the Midtown block party is the one that plants green-and-white flags a short walk from the Empire State Building. Expect biryani, chaat and grilled kebabs from vendors who normally work Jackson Heights and Coney Island Avenue, plus music, speeches and community stalls. If you want a cultural street festival in the middle of Manhattan that costs nothing to walk into, this is a good one.
What to expect
A closed street lined with food stalls, community tables and a stage or sound system, with families moving between them across the day. Expect Pakistani food cooked on site, flags and national dress, live and recorded music, and speeches from community and civic figures at intervals.
Good to know
- The block runs on East 38th Street just off Fifth Avenue in Murray Hill; 4/5/6/7/S to Grand Central or B/D/F/M to 42nd Street-Bryant Park
- Free to attend, with food and goods sold by vendors
- Bring cash, as smaller food stalls often do not take cards
- Midday is busiest; the edges of the day are calmer for families
- Little shade on the block, so bring water and sun cover
- Flat, paved street closure that works for strollers and wheelchairs
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Common questions
What is being celebrated?
Pakistan's independence, marked each August with parades and street festivals across New York.
Is there food?
Yes. Vendors sell Pakistani food on the closed street throughout the event.
Do I need a ticket?
No. It is a free public street celebration.
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