Every October, followers of the Queens-based peace advocate Sri Chinmoy gather in Flushing Meadows Corona Park beside the Heart-Garden and the 800-meter loop the city named Sri Chinmoy Street. The Heart-Garden was dedicated 20 years ago, and past years' events have mixed a two-mile run, a Peace Torch walk, live music and talks from athletes and community leaders. If you want a gentle, uplifting morning in a big Queens park, stop by.
What to expect
Expect a friendly community gathering, not a big-crowd spectacle. In past years the Heart-Garden observance has included a short peace walk with the Peace Run torch, instrumental music, reflections from guests and awards, with runners from around the world mixing in with local families.
Good to know
- Nearest train: 7 to Mets–Willets Point or 111 St, then walk into the park.
- Flushing Meadows Corona Park is huge, so give yourself extra time to find Ederle Terrace.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the event centers on paths built for running and walking.
- It's a calm, all-ages event that suits families and runners.
- Make a morning of it at the Unisphere and Queens Museum, which are also in the park.
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Common questions
What is the Sri Chinmoy Heart-Garden?
It's a small circular garden in Flushing Meadows Corona Park that NYC Parks dedicated on October 11, 2006, along with an 800-meter loop named Sri Chinmoy Street, to honor Sri Chinmoy's work for world peace.
Is there a race?
The Heart-Garden has been home to an annual two-mile Sri Chinmoy Heart-Garden Race since 2009. Check with the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team for this year's race details before you go.
