2021 has been a year of ups and downs, full of difficult challenges and exciting opportunities as together we learn to navigate in a world still grappling with the pandemic.

So it’s important to remember all of the things that went right this year and celebrate all the good that 2021 brought to Washington Square Park.

Programming the Park

WSPC returned to outdoor programming at a sprint: launching outdoor fitness and children’s programs in June 2021 after being unable to program in 2020 due to permit restrictions on Washington Square Park. It quickly became apparent that folks were looking for reasons to be outside in the Park, so we listened to your feedback and conceived of new activities to entice and excite. While we began with a roster of 4 programs, by October we boasted 11 recurring programs for adults and kids of all ages. From a seniors dance class to yoga and kids arts and crafts to a guided drawing class, there was something for everyone. Hundreds of you joined in the fun as we reveled in being back outside together. 

Did you know that WSPC programs aren’t just about having fun? They’re also a necessary tool in mitigating some of the illicit and illegal activity that takes place in the Park. When a specific area is activated with positive use we see a significant improvement in the general activity of that space. It’s nearly impossible to continue skateboarding in Garibaldi Plaza when 40 bodies are spread out on yoga mats doing a sun salutation.

Community Arts Grantees

Each year, WSPC awards arts grants to local community groups who provide free public programming in Washington Square Park. In 2020, we made a commitment to our Community Arts Grantees and funded grants regardless of an organization’s ability to host their usual program. While some organizations were able to pivot to a virtual event, not one was able to host in the Park.

2021 was a different story. We awarded nearly $14,000 to 7 fantastic community groups: Films on the Green, Dances for a Variable Population, the Washington Square Music Festival, NY Laughs, Theater for the New City, Street Labs, and the Washington Square Park Folk Festival. ALL of them were back to hosting in-person programs, and once again the Park was filled with laughter, beautiful music, and joyful applause. 

Volunteers

2021 was a banner year for volunteers in Washington Square Park. Over 200 volunteers from our five different programs contributed nearly 1,600 hours, that’s a new record! Volunteers turned out to help with gardening, interacting with community members, taking beautiful photos, helping out at special events, and of course lots and lots of cleaning! Washington Square Park would certainly be worse-off without their generous helping hands.

YOU

We all love WSP for being the unique, vibrant place that it is. But the heart of Greenwich Village would be nothing without you. It’s Park users that make this place special, and it’s thanks to your support that the Park continues to thrive. Throughout the pandemic you’ve made Washington Square Park your living room, gym, theater, and soapbox. You’ve spent countless hours finding ways to connect with your fellow human beings in ways that still feel safe and responsible. You came back with a vengeance and showed the whole world that NYC is as vibrantly alive as ever.

Are you grateful for Washington Square Park and all it’s provided for the community over this difficult year? Then give back and support your Park today.