The Parks Department hosted the third annual Street Games festival at Thomas Jefferson Park in East Harlem on Saturday, April 17. Each year, Parks kicks it old school with some classic pavement games. Live music, dance performances and stickball were among the many activities that entertained street gamers of all ages on this spring day of timeless New York fun.
“Street Games is a throwback to a time before pixels and processors when having fun meant making friends and sweating a little,” said Commissioner Benepe. “These are the games many New Yorkers grew up on. All the games and activities at Street Games, from double dutch to stickball, take no time to learn and provide hours of outdoor fun. I’d like to thank Disney for helping us expand the event and all our sponsors for making this day of fun events.”
Kids of all ages and their families participated in urban classics, including skate boarding, hopscotch, stickball, and yo-yoing. Extreme Pogo-ers of Pennsylvania showed street gamers the power of the pogo. Stan’s Pepper Steppers showcased their fast feet and double dutch jump roping. The Dance Theatre of Harlem, Skate Dancers, and Street Beats provided live musical performances. Former Knicks Walt Frazier and John Starks signed autographs and shot hoops with participants.
Artists of all ages and from throughout the five boroughs submitted artworks depicting the essence of events, people, and activities in New York City during the 1960s and 1970s. Prizes were awarded for the top three pieces in age group categories.
The event was presented by Walt Disney Company and sponsored by Radio Disney, Sky Bounce, Cabot, New York Knicks Groove Truck, WABC-7, ESPN, 98.7 KISS FM, Open Road, New York Post and Modell’s Sporting Goods.
Photo Credit: Daniel Avila (NYC Parks & Recreation)
