The Central Park Blog » Holidays

Central Park’s Most Romantic Places – Conservatory Garden

John Moore — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 06:26:55 +0000

Conservatory Garden in Central Park

Number 5. on our countdown of Central Park’s most romantic places - Conservatory Garden. A tranquil oasis at the north end of the park, the Conservatory Garden offers dozens of fragrantly secluded corners and lush, leafy bowers to host an intimate tryst. The garden is divided into three sections: the English, Italian, and French. Each offers its own unique charm to the fragrant art of floricultural seduction. The French, or North Garden, is arranged concentrically around the Untermayer Fountain, whose pool is graced by Three Dancing Maidens, a beautiful statue executed in bronze by Walter Schott. The Italian, or Central Garden, features a beautiful lawn leading up to a lovely fountain. Above the fountain, there is a gorgeous wrought iron arbor that is grown over with Chinese Wisteria; it’s a lovely place for an out of the way stroll. The southernmost English Garden is probably the most popular of the three. Featuring beds of seasonally blooming flowers, it is always in season and at its center is a peaceful little pool that features the statue of a boy and girl. It is inspired by “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett, and was sculpted by Bessie Potter Vonnoh. The pool is covered with lily pads by mid-summer and the fragrant magnolia tree that stands nearby offers ample shade for a moment’s respite, and, perhaps, a few whispered phrases tickling your partner’s ear.

Halloween In Central Park

John Moore — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 06:02:23 +0000

Once again the Central Park Conservancy is providing an entertaining array of Halloween activities including festive crafts, pumpkin carving, scary stories, and New York’s largest pumpkin flotilla! Wear your costume and get ready for a frightfully fun time! All events are FREE and will happen rain or shine. No advance registration.

Harlem Meer Social Hour:
Pumpkin Carving for Adults with Suzanne Beason
Thursday, October 15, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
At the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues)
Join us at our monthly series for adults as Suzanne Beason demonstrates how to carve and decorate a one-of-a-kind
jack-o’-lanterns.

Pumpkin Carving for Families
Friday, October 23, 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
At the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues)
Create a jack-o’-lantern and display it in our annual Pumpkin Sail on Sunday, October 25. For children ages six years and older with an accompanying adult.

Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Sail
Sunday, October 25, 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
At the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues)
Enjoy spooky storytelling, pumpkin crafts, live saw music, yummy candy, and New York City’s largest pumpkin flotilla! Bring your own jack-o’-lantern to participate in the pumpkin sail. Great for all ages!

Halloween Crafts
Thursday, October 29, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
At Chess & Checkers House (Mid-Park at 64th Street)
Get in the Halloween spirit with a crafting extravaganza in Central Park. Great for all ages!

Spooks at Belvedere
Friday, October 30, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
At Belvedere Castle (Mid-Park at 79th Street)
What better place to celebrate Halloween than a spooky castle? Great for all ages!

For more information about these programs, click on the program names above.

Halloween in Central Park is provided by the Central Park Conservancy’s Public Programs staff at no cost to you, thanks to the generosity of foundations, corporations, and individual members. You can support us too! Learn more here:www.centralparknyc.org/support

Petit Pups in Central Park

John Moore — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 07:21:48 +0000

Now I have nothing against dogs. As a child I cohabited with several and they all proved to be loyal, steadfast companions whose entire mission in life was to make me happy (that’s besides eating, sleeping and inappropriate behavior with, well, pretty much anything they could jump on or rub up against.) I also have nothing against small dogs, my brother’s family once owned a poodle which, without the embarrassing hairdo, looked like a tiny Phil Donahue and was even more ingratiating. The problem I have is with large men walking tiny dogs on long leashes around the reservoir track. During one recent endorphin fueled confrontation I stopped mid-chug and asked an oblivious lump in an overcoat if his dogs (two miniscule longhairs that would have, together, lost a fight to a good sized dust bunny) could read. He looked at me with brow knitted intensity and replied huh? I then pointed to the lettering on the base of the fence which says no dogs and said Could you help them out? Of course my scathing sarcasm was utterly wasted, not to mention the fact that the next runner bumped into me and scowled in my direction. After a few more grunts all around I decided to resist the urge to kick the dog, or its owner, and resumed trudging along.

Snowfall and Snow Leopards

John Moore — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 02:29:48 +0000

This evening has brought a delightful frosting to the park, although it is scheduled to be replaced by slushy grey muck by morning. One of the most romantic views in the park is Belvedere Castle in the snow.

And while we’re on the subject – Snow leopards will soon have new digs in Manhattan, at the Central Park Zoo. The Allison Maher Stern Snow Leopard Exhibit is expected to open in spring of 2009 and was made possible by a $7 million leadership gift to the WCS Gateways to Conservation campaign by Allison and Leonard Stern. The new exhibit will replicate the scrubby evergreen forests in the mountainous region of Central Asia, where the highly endangered snow leopard lives. Zoo visitors will be able to go nose-to-nose with the big cats and see them perched on rocks and boulders. Hot and cool rocks for winter and summer will create a comfortable environment for these high-altitude animals, and ledges and other behavioral enrichment features will encourage them to pounce and play. Some lovely watercolors that are being prepared for the Zoo can be found at the Natural History Artist site.

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New Year’s Celebration In Central Park

John Moore — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 05:34:27 +0000

Despite temperatures hovering near 0 degrees Fahrenheit thousands of intrepid New Yorkers gathered in front of the Bandshell in Central Park to greet the new year and participate in the Midnight Run. Leading the way were men’s winner Sean Quigley, who ran 18:45, and women’s winner Aziza Aliyu, who ran 21:21. This was the 309th running of the event, which included a dance party, costume contest, parade, and fireworks, and has been on the NYRR calendar since 1978.

I admit I was not was not one of the running revelers. While in years past I have participated in the run, – and heartily endorse the event to everyone - this year I was daunted by the winds and decided to share dinner with friends. This followed by fireplace with girlfriend. Maybe not fireworks, but warm enough for me. Cheers.

NYRR Photo Gallery

Video

Top Finishers

Animal Advocates Protest Against Carriage-Horse Industry In Central Park

John Moore — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 02:41:36 +0000

Animal rights activists braved frigid weather and gathered at Central Park South Thursday, Jan. 1st to protest the treatment of carriage horses. The protest against horse-drawn carriage rides occurred as the City Council gets ready to consider a ban on the controversial tourist attraction.”You can’t have horse-drawn carriages in New York City without the public safety issues and the inherent animal cruelty issues,” said Edita Birnkrant, a spokeswoman for Friends of Animals.

Horse Drawn Carriage in the Snow

She pointed out that horses went to work in a snowstorm last month, and one slipped on an icy street.

Animal welfare advocates rallied in the frigid weather, shouting, “Shame on you!” at the crowd of tourists lined up for rides. The City Council is set to debate a bill later this month that would shut down the industry.

Annual Central Park Bird Count

John Moore — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 19:28:26 +0000

The 109th annual Central Park Bird Count was conducted Sunday afternoon. The count is done each year to track the number and type of birds found in the park. Before the turn of the century the Christmas holiday was celebrated by what was called a “side hunt”. This consisted of a bunch of people (presumably dressed in tweed) choosing up sides and going out hunting. Whichever side came home with the biggest pile of dead animals won.

What fun!

Originally initiated by the Audubon Society as a response to this annual yuletide slaughter the Bird Count is still organized by the bird watching society and is done in conjunction with the Parks Department. It also employs a dedicated cadre of bird enthusiasts to help with the counting. About 75 people came out on Sunday to help and were divided into groups to count birds in seven different zones in the park, including the Great Lawn, the Ramble, the Reservoir and the four corners of the park.

Parks Department spokesman Phil Abramson said the count this year was 6,041 birds from 55 different species. That’s down from last year’s count of 7,771 birds. Up this year were the number of rare bird called a Pine Sisken, about 50 were seen in the Ramble area of the park, a large increase over last year. Another interesting find this year was a wild turkey that has been making appearances around the Lake this fall. Presumably he was granted asylum from Alaska.

Holiday Fun In Central Park

John Moore — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 22:34:05 +0000

This year there are more fun ways to celebrate the holidays in Central Park than ever before! Whether it’s watching Gus the Polar Bear open his presents or holiday crafts at Belvedere Castle Central Park has something for everyone.

The park offers the perfect remedy for the stress of holiday planning and shopping. A walk through around the Pond, over Gapstow Bridge and up to the Literary Walk only takes about 30 minutes there and back, but it can add years to your life during the holiday season, and it’s only a few blocks from Bloomingdales.

A few pointers – dress in layers, especially children. It’s winter and you’re going to be going in and out of venues to participate in activities. The constant change in temperature can cause crankiness, that goes for parents as well.

Be nice to tourists from other counties. Especially if they are spending money.

Skip waiting on line for a Horse Drawn Carriage ride. It’s not very Christma-ssy (or Kwanza-esque, or Hanukkah – nian) to sit under a blanket and watch an animal suffer for your amusement.

Stop by Wollman Rink even if you’re not going skating – they have great hot chocolate and it’s almost as much fun to watch.

Download the handy map and Walking Tour on CentralPark.com – it tells all about the best places in the lower half of the park, and explains how to get there.

(Click here for a pdf version of this schedule you can print out for yourself)

Ice Skating at Wollman Rink
What could offer more holiday fun then Ice skating in Central Park? It is easily one of the most picturesque activities to be enjoyed on a winter’s night – and unlike the somewhat overwhelming confines of the Rockefeller Center rink you can actually see stars at the Wollman and Lasker rinks. Feel the cold tingle of New York’s crisp winter air, listen to the music, and take in the incomparable surroundings as you glide (gracefully or not so) around either of Central Park’s ice rinks.
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Columbus Circle Holiday Market
It’s time to shop till you drop at the holiday market at Columbus Circle. More than 100 vendors will be selling a dizzying variety of wares, including imported and handmade holiday ornaments and decorations, antique prints, fine art, toys for kids of all ages, gourmet foods, drinks, baked goods, handcrafted jewelry and leather, golf accessories, candles, bath oils, cashmere, French linens, pet accessories, and clothing and apparel for all ages. The Market will be open from December 3rd all the way until Christmas Eve.
Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Winter Holiday Lighting in Central Park
Sunday, December 7, 2008
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Celebrate the holiday season by attending the 12th annual lighting at Central Park’s Dana Discovery Center. This free event includes exciting holiday activities, live music, and refreshments for the entire family. The celebration will be held rain or shine. Advance registration not required. For more information, please call (212) 860-1370

Harlem Meer Social Hour: Exploring Kwanzaa Through Film
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Each month, the Conservancy hosts a different evening program at the Dana Discovery Center, including plenty of time for mingling and talking with like-minded individuals. Light refreshments are served. This month the meaning of Kwanzaa will be explored by watching the documentary film The Black Candle. This is a free event for adults only. Advance registration not required, but space is limited so arrive promptly to reserve your seat. For more information, please call (212) 860-1370

Castle by Candlelight
Saturday, December 13, 2008
6:00 p.m.

Join the Central Park Rangers for a magical walk through Belvedere Castle.
For more information call (212) 628-2345

A Winter Festival of Light
Saturday, December 20, 2008
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

In this one-of-a-kind program, award-winning storyteller Regina Ress visits the Dana Center to tell stories about the many beautiful mid-winter holidays that celebrate the light in the darkness. The Winter Solstice, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the New Year are all celebrated with captivating stories and brilliant light. Bring the whole family to this multicultural hour, which culminates with a candle-lit procession in which we invite the light to return, and with it, a sweet new year. This event is free for all ages and will take place rain or shine. Advance registration not required. For more information, please call (212) 860-1370.

Hanukkah Menorah-making in Central Park
Saturday, December 20, 2008
12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit by creating your very own menorah to take home and use year after year. Drop in anytime between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Free for all ages! Rain or shine. Advance registration not required. For more information, please call (212) 772-0210

Starry, Starry Night
Saturday, December 20, 2008
7:00 p.m.

Observe the Winter Solstice Central Park style by lying beneath the stars and learning all about the night sky. Meet at the South East corner of the Great Lawn. For more information call (212) 628-2345.

Christmas Crafts at Belvedere Castle
Sunday, December 21, 2008
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Free for all ages! Rain or shine. Advance registration not required. For more information, please call (212) 772-0210. This event will be held at Belvedere Castle.

Meet St. Nicholas at Belvedere Castle
Sunday, December 21, 2008
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Learn about the patron saint who inspired one of our favorite holiday icons. Don’t forget to bring your wish list to share with longtime Central Park Conservancy volunteer, Ed Bobrow, who will be dressed in full Santa Claus garb. Activity is ongoing from 11:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m.; drop in anytime.

Free for all ages! Rain or shine. Advance registration not required. For more information, please call (212) 772-0210.

Christmas Crafts at Belvedere Castle
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The staff at Belvedere Castle will lead you in a fun afternoon of Christmas-inspired creativity. Free for all ages! Rain or shine. Advance registration not required. For more information, please call (212) 772-0210.

Winter Wanderings
Sunday, December 28, 2008
12:00 p.m.

Join us for a hike through the North Woods of Central Park, then continue wandering through some of the Harlem parks. The walk will begin at Frederick Douglass Circle (West 110 Street and Central Park West) For More Information call (212) 628-2345

Family Craft Friday: Kwanzaa Crafts
Friday, January 2, 2009
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

All are welcome to participate in creating a new craft project every week at Family Craft Fridays at the Dana Discovery Center. This new weekly series runs from January 2 through March 27. These activities are guaranteed to be fun for the whole family and are being held in association with the Museum for African Art. This will be a special Kwanzaa-themed afternoon of creativity. Learn and celebrate the history, practice, and principles of Kwanzaa, and make a Zawadi for someone you love.Crafts are ongoing between 2:00 pm and 4:00 p.m. and free for all ages. Rain or shine. Families only; no groups please. Advance registration not required. For more information you can call (212) 860-1370

Wild Holiday Party: Presents to the Animals at the Central Park Zoo
December 6–7, 13–14, & 20–21

There’s no fruitcake or eggnog at this holiday party! Fishsicles, fruit, and peanut butter are just a few of the tasty treats polar bears and other animals will enjoy during these festive weekends in December. For more information visit www.centralparkzoo.com.

Christmas Bird Count
Meet at South Pump Station of the Reservoir (85th Street & 5th Avenue)
Sunday, December 14 - 8:00 am

Take part in this annual tradition started by ornithologist Frank Chapman on December 25, 1900. The collected data will be added to an ever-growing database that provides valuable information to research scientists who study early winter bird populations across North America.
Register at http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/

Central Park is also a great place to stay fit between holiday parties – check out these events sponsored by the New York Road Runners:

NYRR Joe Kleinerman 10K
Sunday, December 7 / 10K (6.2M)
8:30 a.m.

The legacy of NYRR founder Joe Kleinerman lives on with his namesake 10K. This wintry run not only pays tribute to Kleinerman, who passed away in 2003, but it also benefits a scholarship fund in his name for scholastic runners. $1 of your registration fee goes directly to the fund, and additional donations can be made during registration. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years old.

NYRR Holiday 4-Mile
Saturday, December 13 / 4M
8:30 a.m.

’Tis the season to be running! Crank up your holiday cheer with this festive family affair. It’s our present to you—happy holidays!

NYRR Ted Corbitt 15K
Saturday, December 20 / 15K
8:30 a.m.

NYRR honors founding president Ted Corbitt with this 15K on December 20.

Emerald Nuts Midnight Run
Wednesday, December 31

DJ Music and Dancing • 10:00 p.m. / Costume Parade and Contest • 11:00 p.m. / Fireworks and 4M Race • Midnight / Central Park, New York

Kickoff the New Year with a spectacular fireworks at the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run. With a costume parade, dancing, all the rest, this four-miler is more of a party than a race. Count down the minutes ’til midnight and then count down the miles ’til the finish line.

Party Location: Dancing and the costume contest are at the Central Park Bandshell, just south of the 72nd Street Transverse in Central Park, New York. The closest entrance is at Fifth Avenue and 72nd Street.