Independence • Tradition • Support • Culture
About The Washington
Square Association
As NYC’s oldest neighborhood and civic organization, The Washington Square Association has spent over a century dedicated to preserving the iconic character of Washington Square Park and our community. We remain an entirely volunteer-run organization.
We produce free programs including the Washington Square Christmas Tree lighting and caroling (with a Christmas Eve encore), the Washington Square Music Festival, cultural events like The Village Trip, and the Washington Square Chess Exhibition. We also actively advocate for public safety, quality of life, and the protection of public space—working with city agencies, elected officials, and community stakeholders to ensure the Park remains true to its civic purpose.
With no salaries or overhead, 100% of every donation and $50 annual membership goes directly to this work. Join us in keeping Washington Square vibrant and welcoming for all who gather here, now and for generations to come. Become a Member!
120
Years in service of the Washington Square community
123,000
Attendees to over 60 years of Washington Square Music Festival concerts
2nd
Longest running tree lighting in New York City, and ours is specifically for our neighborhood community
Independence • Tradition • Support • Culture
Events and Announcements
WSA Blog
We are thrilled to announce the next Washington Square Park Chess Exhibition on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 12PM–4PM at the Washington Square Park Chess Plaza (rain date: Sunday, May 17). Free and open to the public, this event brings a world‑class Grandmaster to the iconic chess tables in the southwest corner of the park.
Photos From WSA Events
