Manhattan, New York – 400 Years: Happy Birthday, New York

Manhattan, New York – 400 Years:
Happy Birthday, New York

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the New York Quadricentennial Committee proudly commemorated the 400th anniversary of New York’s founding with an evening of reflection, fellowship, and celebration.

The Committee and Its Partners

The New York Quadricentennial Committee (NYQC) was established in October 2022 as a collaborative initiative to mark this historic milestone. The Committee brought together the Holland Society of New York, the St. Nicholas Society of the City of New York, the Society of the First Families of New York, and the Colonial Dames of America, aligned with the Lenape Center and the Dutch Consulate in New York.

We are deeply grateful for the leadership and support of all these organizations, and to the many individuals who gave their time and expertise to ensure the success of this commemoration.

Highlights of the Celebration

The evening included:

• An engaging panel discussion led by Peggy King Jorde, which illuminated the diverse stories that connect us across centuries.
• Official recognition from the City of New York, with the office of Mayor Eric Adams proclaiming September 13, 2025 as Manahatta – Nieu Amsterdam Day.
• A ceremonial cake-cutting to honor the city’s 400th birthday.
• Traditional food and drink of the era, curated by Tuxedo Park Events.
• Opening and closing words by Lenape leadership, grounding the celebration in the enduring presence and wisdom of the First People of this land.

Looking Back and Looking Ahead

New York is, and always has been, a city of many peoples. From the Lenape, who made their home here more than 3,000 years ago, to the Dutch and European families who arrived in 1625, and to the countless New Yorkers who shape the city today—this anniversary reminds us that New York belongs to all of us.

On this occasion, we honored the past, celebrated the present, and looked forward to the city’s future.

New York is 400 years old. Happy Birthday!