East Village Gardens Walking Tour

The East Village/Lower East Side boasts fifty-three community gardens, each with its own personality. This neighborhood, considered the birthplace of the modern American community garden movement, is one whose lush gardens reveal so much about the community, art, collaboration, and environmental work in our neighborhoods, and much more. Learn about these gardens’ collective and individual histories, what it takes to maintain them, and meet volunteer gardeners and organizers who make it possible for the public to enjoy their beauty.

Our guide, Ayo Harrington, is an issues-based organizer and community land developer. Harrington has a life-long commitment to social justice and a background in performing arts (including Sweet Honey in the Rock!), and has cleared garbage-strewn lots to build community gardens. She has been involved with numerous community organizations and associations in New York City, including LES Ready and Gardens Rising.

This event is outdoors and sidewalk accessible. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. There are no restrooms in any of these gardens.