- By Mabel Pais
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Festival of Colors, Holi, symbolizing the onset of Spring. The South Street Seaport neighborhood celebrates Holi on Saturday, March 23, 2024. You can get free General Admission to the South Street Seaport Museum 11am – 5 pm and explore the introduction galleries at 12 Fulton Street and the historic ships at Pier 16 throughout the day.
Holi originated on the Indian Subcontinent as a vibrant festival of colors, symbolizing the onset of Spring. Today, this joyous celebration has transcended borders and is embraced worldwide as a spirited way to welcome the season, promote inclusivity, and revel in playful and colorful festivities.
The festivities commence at 11am aboard the 1885 tall ship ‘Wavertree,’ where you’ll discover the culinary delights of Holi and savor a tasty treat. The celebration continues on Seaport Square, featuring the Colors of Krishna’s Love puppet show, which shares the history of Holi; interactive dance workshops and performances; and the iconic throwing of colorful pigments––the quintessential part of Holi.
After the colorful revelry, head to Pier 16 and participate in the creation of a collaborative mural inspired by the balloon fights that characterize Holi celebrations across India.
These activities, presented in collaboration with The Culture Tree and the Seaport, promise a day filled with cultural richness, interactive experiences, and the shared spirit of Holi. Explore below for details on special all-ages activities happening at the Seaport Museum. Learn more at seaportmuseum.org/holi
Foods of Holi
March 23 | 11am | ‘Wavertree’ | Free
Begin the Holi celebration with a family-friendly book reading and a captivating talk on the traditional foods of Holi by Priya Krishna, an award-winning food reporter for ‘The New York Times.’ Priya will share insights from her new book, ‘Priya’s Kitchen Adventures,’ an illustrated cookbook for kids and parents that draws inspiration from her childhood experiences traveling the globe with her family.
Following the reading, there will be an interactive cooking segment led by Anu Sehgal, founder and CEO of ‘The Culture Tree,’ which will culminate in a tasting of Shahi Toast, a sweet Holi delicacy. Participants will also receive the recipe to recreate this treat at home.
Advanced registration is encouraged for this free family program but walk ups will be accommodated as possible. Please be aware that the treat contains nuts, dairy, and gluten.
Holi Collaborative Mural
March 23 | 11am–5pm | Pier 16 | Free with General Admission
Visitors of all ages are invited to continue the Holi celebration on Pier 16 with the Museum by joining in to create a vibrant collaborative mural inspired by the colorful pigment and balloon fights of the annual festival.
Every participant will be provided with a colorful paintball to add their touch to the mural, creating a collective masterpiece. Let’s roll up our sleeves together and celebrate the kaleidoscope of colors that define Holi.
Supplies are limited. This activity takes place outdoors at Pier 16 and walk ups are welcome. No additional registration required.
Extend Your Visit
General Admission includes access to all current exhibitions on view in the introduction gallery space at 12 Fulton Street and access to the 1885 tall ship ‘Wavertree.’ Free timed tickets for a tour of the 1908 lightship ‘Ambrose’ are available separately at no additional cost.
The Culture Tree
The Culture Tree promotes cultural literacy about South Asia through language and educational and cultural programs. The goal is to create empathy, respect and understanding towards all different cultures and further inclusivity, while still helping address questions about Identity with heritage cultures.
The Culture Tree partners with museums, galleries, schools and libraries to implement its classes and programming. Programs include celebration of key festivals and events, puppet shows, bilingual storytime, mindful eating, mindfulness and language classes in key South Asian languages.
Culture Tree is made up of cultural and diversity consultants who advocate for cultural literacy and diversity and equity in children’s programming and education. Learn more at theculturetree.com
The South Street Seaport Museum
The South Street Seaport Museum, located in the heart of the historic seaport district in New York City, preserves and interprets the history of New York as a great port city. Founded in 1967, the Museum houses an extensive collection of works of art and artifacts, a maritime reference library, exhibition galleries and education spaces, working 19th century print shops, and an active fleet of historic vessels that all work to tell the story of “Where New York Begins.” Learn more at seaportmuseum.org
Connect with the Museum online
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(Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Spirituality, Education, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, and Business)