Social Streets

At the 49th Museum Mile Festival, all I could think about was how I’ve never noticed how nice this part of town looks. Trees, buildings, sidewalks, atmosphere: the UES has never seemed more friendly. This was probably because from 82nd to 96th Streets, no cars or bikes were allowed on Fifth Avenue, making the neighborhood more walkable and the buildings pop. DAVEY MITCHELL, a performance artist and area resident, has been coming to the festival for years. “When there aren’t cars or trucks or bikes, it allows for more social interactions. People talk to each other more,” he said to me.  

Many participating museums opened their doors free of charge. There was a jazz band in front of the Jewish Museum and the Church of Heavenly Rest, ice cream and food vendors everywhere, and arts-and-craft activities for younger attendees. A major highlight was the performance by the Queer Big Apple Corps! Their energy and contagious enthusiasm electrified the crowds with a spirit of rejuvenation like no other. All in all: less cars, more happy.