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The 400th anniversary of the establishment of the City of New York
The NY 400th Quadricentennial Committee invites you to join in commemorating the past and building a unified future for New York City at a
Family & Friends Picnic on Governors Island
ABOUT THE EVENT
In the year 1624 different nationalities including the Indigenous People and many European countries, lived and built a community together in this one place. On September 14th, we are commemorating how these diverse cultures became ‘one’ and created New Amsterdam, now known as New York City.
The Dutch West India Company brought 30 French Huguenot families to establish one of the earliest Dutch settlements in North America on Nutten (now Governors) Island. Within 40 years, New Amsterdam had become a vibrant community of thousands of people from various backgrounds, including the Lenape, Dutch, English, Welsh, Irish, Scots, Germans, French Huguenots, Sephardic Jews, Africans, and others.
Our events, the first one being this picnic, will commemorate this point in our history, which is rich with achievements, yet also marked by sorrow and sin. We want to honor all of their stories: their triumphs, struggles, sacrifices, oppressions, successes and the challenges of our shared history.
September 14, 2024 – 11 am to 2 pm
Raindate: September 21, 2024
Bring your own picnic !
Traditional Picnic Games & Activities (bring your sneakers!)
There will be presentations on the history of Early New Amsterdam!
We are asking for a donation of $25 per person or $50 per family & friends to cover the costs of the event
If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]
Getting there:
Take the Ferry from Battery Maritime Building at 10 South Street in Lower Manhattan
Food trucks are on the island. Please check here to see which ones will be there on our date!
Governor’s Island does not permit alcholic beverages.
GOVERNORS ISLAND
Come Early – Stay Late! There is so much to see! Plan you day!
Besids our Picnic, Governors Island offers a wide range of activities. Explore the island’s rich history with a visit to the historic forts, Fort Jay and Castle Williams, which offer panoramic views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Stroll or bike along the island’s scenic paths, taking in the lush landscapes, historic buildings, and public art installations. Visit the playgrounds – Slide Hill and Hammock Grove, The Arts Center, and you can even rent bikes!
If you would like to volunteer to help with our events please fill out this form.
If you have any questions or would like to get involved in our events, please email us at:
or Join our email list below.
Event Guidelines
DISCLAIMERS
By purchasing a ticket for The Picnic on Governors Island organized by The NY Quadricentennial Committee, Participants acknowledge and assumes all risks associated with participation, including but not limited to, risks of bodily injury, property damage, or other harm, whether known or unknown. Participant agrees to release, indemnify, and hold harmless the organizers, volunteers, sponsors, and any affiliated parties of The NY Quadricentennial Committee from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses arising out of or in connection with Participant’s participation in the event.
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO
By purchasing a ticket to The Picnic on Governors Island organized by The NY Quadricentennial Committee, participants acknowledge and consent to their likeness potentially being captured in photo and video event coverage conducted by our staffed professionals. We prioritize the privacy and comfort of our attendees, and any concerns regarding media coverage should be addressed to event organizers. We strive to create a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, where memories are cherished and shared responsibly. Your participation signifies agreement with these terms.
