Lower East Side History Month
Happy Lower East Side History Month. We’re kicking it off with a reminder of the iconic intersection of Ludlow and Rivington Streets, now officially designated as “Beastie Boys Square,” a piece of New York music history stands preserved. The location, immortalized on the cover of the Beastie Boys’ innovative 1989 album “Paul’s Boutique,” now features a detailed mural that documents the Lower East Side’s rich musical heritage and cultural significance.
District 1 Reading Hub at Essex Market
Exciting news! We’re thrilled of the launch brand new District 1 NYC’s Reading Hub at Essex Market! Kids and families can discover, share, and enjoy books on the mezzanine or take a book home. Books are available from baby through 12th grade reading level. To donate books drop them at the hub or contact info@essexmarket.nyc. Stay tuned as we announce upcoming events with our partners.
Open Streets on the ‘Orchard T’
Open Streets on the ‘Orchard T’, Orchard Street between Grand and Delancey and Allen and Ludlow Streets is back! As the the weather warms up, don’t forget that people are WALKIN’ HERE! Our businesses are setting up shop outside, and we’ll have a refresh to our planters soon! Special thanks to our clean team staff for managing the closure.
Bishop Crook Lampposts
Bishop’s Crook lampposts were first used in New York City around 1900…less than 100 still exist today. On the Lower East Side they remind us that we’re in one of the most historically rich neighborhoods in our city, alive with cultural institutions that celebrate that history and our diverse community today. Don’t forget to look up and enjoy the urban architecture of yesteryear, and stay tuned for more features of our storied spaces on banners this spring.
Baker Falls
A new chapter for live music on the Lower East Side!
Baker Falls (pop. 192) is now in soft-open mode at 192 Allen St., bringing its signature Twin Peaks-esque vibes to LES. Owner Nick Bodor, a longtime East Village fixture, has crafted a space that’s part indie venue, part social club for the city's creative misfits.
With events like open mics and variety shows, Baker Falls is already shaping up to be a hub for experimental performances and unexpected collaborations. More shows and surprises are on the way—check their website for upcoming events and follow along on Instagram for the latest.
For now, enjoy beer, wine, and coffee while waiting for the full bar to arrive. See you in the nooks and crannies!
Souvlaki Grand
Step through the blue doors of Souvlaki Grand feel like you’ve landed in Mykonos—right in the heart of NYC! From traditional Greek music to the rustic charm of an outdoor island taverna, every detail is designed to transport you straight to the Aegean. Whether you're here for a relaxing meal, vibrant conversation, or to unwind with a glass of wine, it's an experience that brings the flavors and atmosphere of Greece to life in the city. Come taste a little slice of the Aegean, right here in the Lower East Side!
New Year, New Cans
Excuse My French Bar and Tapas
Found the perfect little escape to Paris right in the heart of the Lower East Side!
Excuse My French Bar and Tapas, is serving up incredible French tapas like Escargot Persillade (garlic, butter, parsley perfection), tender frog legs with Provençal garlic butter, a classic Croque Monsieur with ham, Gruyère, and béchamel, Steak Tartare topped with a quail egg yolk, and delicate, irresistible crêpes.
Pair these with their dreamy cocktails, and you’ve got a chic Parisian night out—no passport required! Stop by and get a taste of France at 96 Orchard St!
Shop Late, Shop Local: Over 25 LES Stores Open Until 9PM on Dec. 19
Join 25+ local shops on Thursday as they keep their doors open late for all your holiday shopping needs! From vintage finds to designer pieces, unique books to one-of-a-kind gifts there’s something special for everyone on your list.
Joy Flower Pot’s Four Year Anniversary
Thanks to everyone who came out to our Business Outreach event alongside Joy Flower Pot's Four-Year Anniversary! We talked to residents, local businesses, and pop-up vendors about the BID, our services, and services offered by the city. We were happy to spread the word about the Bid and our Clean Team around the neighborhood! Thanks for everyone that stopped by and said hi, and thanks to Joy Flower Pot for hosting us!
Join us for a Business Networking Breakfast on Oct. 7th
Meet fellow business leaders at Essex Market for a morning of networking, professional headshot updates, and access to valuable city resources. Enjoy local drinks and snacks on us!
Visit Lower East Side Galleries This Summer
The third Thursdays of each month are Lower East Side Gallery Nights.
Above Image: Nero, Anna. Shallow Purple. MARC STRAUS
11 Women-Owned Businesses to Support During Women’s History Month
March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. This month is an opportunity to reflect on the struggles women have faced, the progress that has been made, and the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality.
A Look at Black History on the Lower East Side
It’s Black History Month, a time when we acknowledge the contributions of the Black community in our own spaces and reflect on how those histories show up in our neighborhoods. Like many neighborhoods in New York City, the Lower East Side is teeming with evidence of historic Black communities.
‘Bronx Banksy’ HEKTAD Paints Dan's Papers Cover Art Debut
This week’s [Dan’s Papers] cover art by artist HEKTAD comes from the Mark Miller Gallery. Here, Miller discusses HEKTAD’s art process and style, and the message of love he aims to spread with his art.
Read more at Dan’s Papers.
Interview with Kevin Berlin at Mark Miller Gallery
Mark Miller Gallery presented Kevin Berlin “Fresh Tomatoes!” a special themed presentation at Hamptons Fine Art Fair from July 14-17. Over four days, the Fair featured over 100 galleries from 50 cities and 11 countries, with more than 9,500 in attendance.