Read what 331 neighbors and visitors told us about gates in Washington Square Park.
About The Washington
Square Association
As NYC’s oldest neighborhood and civic organization, The Washington Square Association has spent over a century dedicated to preserving the iconic character of Washington Square Park and our community. We remain an entirely volunteer-run organization.
We produce free programs including the Washington Square Christmas Tree lighting and caroling (with a Christmas Eve encore) and the Washington Square Chess Exhibition, and support cultural events like the Washington Square Music Festival and The Village Trip. We also actively advocate for public safety, quality of life, and the protection of public space, working with city agencies, elected officials, and community stakeholders to ensure the Park remains true to its civic purpose.
With no salaries or overhead, 100% of every donation and $50 annual membership goes directly to this work. Join us in keeping Washington Square vibrant and welcoming for all who gather here, now and for generations to come. Become a Member!
Years in service of the Washington Square community
Attendees to over 60 years of Washington Square Music Festival concerts
Longest running tree lighting in New York City, bringing together 100’s of neighbors and international visitors to sing carols and share good will
The Washington Square Association's 5th annual Chess Exhibition returned to the park's tables with three-time U.S. Champion Grandmaster Joel Benjamin, and the 68th Washington Square Music Festival brought four free Tuesday evenings to Garibaldi Plaza — Baroque, Cuban jazz, Afro-Caribbean fusion, and Berlioz under the stars.
