By Lynn Pacifico | I attended the “Luminaria” event sponsored by New York University at the Sasaki Garden in Washington Square Village on December 14. The evening had a typical New York pre-holiday chill, bustling with people hurrying about. Amidst the crowd, I found myself anxious about locating the event until the sight of numerous small white bags illuminated by LED lights reassured me that I was on the right path. I arrived just in time for the commencement of the event.
The musical performance kicked off with a melodious Spanish serenade to the moon by the talented South American artist Juancho Herrera. What caught my attention was the abundance of baby strollers, each occupied by an actual baby—a stark contrast to the usual sight of dogs in strollers around the Village. The presence of a growing number of children added a lively atmosphere to the gathering.
Sasaki Garden, situated within the Washington Square Village, primarily serving as New York University housing, provided a picturesque backdrop for the event. The setting was a departure from my usual environment, where my son had been the sole child in a 158-unit apartment building in the West Village. This N.Y.U. enclave, however, proved to be a family-friendly space, evident from the diverse attendees.
The musical lineup curated by Micheal Inge, featuring the Voices of Henry Street Choir singers, included classic tunes with profound messages. Songs like John Lennon’s “Imagine” (1971) and the O’Jays’ “Love Train” (1972) resonated with the audience, fostering a sense of unity and joy as people sang along and embraced the festive spirit. Guest performers added flair to the evening, delivering soulful renditions that touched the hearts of all present.
As the night progressed, the venue transformed into a playground for children of various ages, with parents joyfully engaging with their little ones while older kids relished the company of their friends. The event undoubtedly created lasting family memories and added a special touch to the holiday season for the attendees. Observing toddlers curiously exploring the illuminated bags, then handing them to their parents, encapsulated the essence of shared experiences and togetherness.
The finale of the night, marked by the rendition of “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King (1961), prompted everyone to sway and sing in unison, encapsulating the evening’s essence of solidarity and harmony.
Kudos to Erin Donnelly, the community liaison of N.Y.U.’s Faculty Housing & Residential Services, for orchestrating a memorable event, alongside the talented performers who graced the stage. As I strolled back to the West Village, despite my slightly frozen toes, I savored the festive decorations, feeling truly immersed in the holiday spirit. This enchanting night truly encapsulated the essence of the season. Well done.