A hidden New York gem curates culture that might otherwise be lost

EAST VILLAGE -- Founded in 1985, City Lore has become an iconic institution in the heart of New York City, dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich, living cultural heritage of the city and beyond. Now an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, City Lore has broadened its impact, documenting, presenting, and advocating for the grassroots cultures that make New York City the vibrant, diverse metropolis it is today.

Located at 56 E. 1st St, City Lore's mission is to foster cultural equity and educate the public through programs that celebrate the stories, traditions, and artistic practices that shape communities. With a focus on urban folklore, history, preservation, arts education, and grassroots poetry traditions, City Lore aims to ensure that New York City's rich cultural legacies live on for future generations.

"City Lore finds the art in everyday life," says its director Steve Zeitlin, highlighting the organization's commitment to showcasing the dynamic, diverse cultural expressions of the city's residents. From immigrant traditions to street art, local poets to oral histories, City Lore's work serves as both an educational resource and a powerful advocacy platform for cultural communities.

The organization operates across four main cultural domains:

• Urban Folklore and History - Exploring the untold stories and cultural practices that define the city's past and present.

• Preservation - Ensuring that New York's cultural landmarks and traditions are safeguarded for future generations.

• Arts Education - Providing programs that empower individuals to engage in the arts and express their cultural identities.

• Grassroots Poetry Traditions - Fostering poetry as a living, breathing practice that speaks to the experiences of ordinary New Yorkers.

City Lore's public programs range from exhibits and performances to community workshops and cultural events. Each project reflects the diversity of New York City, from its neighborhoods to its many communities, making the institution a vital resource for both locals and visitors alike.

For those looking to experience City Lore's offerings, the gallery is open Fridays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

As a Smithsonian affiliate, City Lore is part of a network that connects local communities with national cultural resources, expanding the reach of New York City's living heritage to a global audience. Through its work, City Lore continues to model a world where cultural expression and diversity are celebrated and preserved.