Why Are Community Events Important for Uplifting Chinatown?

What Is Open Streets?

“New York City’s Open Streets program transforms streets into public space open to all. These transformations allow for a range of activities that promote economic development, support schools, facilitate pedestrian and bike mobility, and provide new ways for New Yorkers to enjoy cultural programming and build community.”

• Department of Transportation (DOT)

Hosted on a sunny Saturday, Open Streets was a community event created through a partnership between Chinatown B.I.D. and Apex for Youth, bringing together over 600 attendees for a day filled with performances, hands-on activities, and community connection. From lion dances to calligraphy, every moment was designed to engage families and highlight the cultural richness of Chinatown in New York City.

“This Open Streets is such an important event for Apex for Youth to be involved in because we are based out of Chinatown. We work closely with the Chinatown community. It is so important to show folks in the Chinatown community that we are here and that we are here for them and that we want to support the youth that are growing up here.”

• Isabelle St. Clair, Associate Director of Elementary Programs at Apex for Youth.

Chinatown B.I.D., or Chinatown Business Improvement District, is a nonprofit organization that provides services like neighborhood beautifications and sanitation, such as supplemental cleaning, graffiti removal, and supporting local businesses through a broad range of programs like marketing and community events.

Why Forsyth & Division?

The corner of Forsyth and Division Street may not be Chinatown’s busiest intersection, but it’s rich in history, culture, and community spirit. That’s why Apex for Youth and the Chinatown Business Improvement District (B.I.D.) chose it for this Open Streets Family Festival.

“We wanted to spotlight a lesser-known part of Chinatown, and bring more visibility to the businesses and families here. This area is full of tenement buildings with little open space. We wanted to give families a chance to enjoy the sunshine, connect with neighbors, and create lasting summer memories.”  

• Wellington Chen, Executive Director of the Chinatown B.I.D. 

What Happened at Open Streets?

From Apex for Youth families to passersby, over 600 attendees came together to enjoy a vibrant celebration designed for families in the Chinatown community. The event featured live performances, interactive activities, and an opportunity to connect with local nonprofits and small businesses.

The day featured a lively lineup of performances, including a traditional Hung Ga Lion Dance, Chinese and American vocal songs by Vivi Hu, a dance performance and interactive workshop led by Dahyun Kim, and a powerful Taiko drum performance by OMNY.

In between performances, families enjoyed a wide range of free, hands-on activities, including face painting, a bouncy house, and clay modeling with Apex for Youth. Community partners hosted engaging stations:

• Traditional Chinese games (Chinatown B.I.D.)
• Mood and vision boards (Scholar Readiness)
• Calligraphy (Eastern Bookstore)
• Health education (Charles B. Wang Community Health Center)
• Lego table (Y Arch)
• Reflex games (Dragon Combat Club)
• Streetlab
• NewYork Downtown Presbyterian. 

Open Streets was about more than fun; it was about uplifting a community, highlighting Asian American voices, and providing families with a place to feel seen and supported. Thank you to everyone who made this day possible, especially to our volunteers, staff, and community members.