A Bird’s Eye View of Union Square Greenmarket
The world-famous Union Square Greenmarket began with just a few farmers in 1976, and has grown exponentially; in peak season 140 regional farmers, fishers, and bakers sell their products to a dedicated legion of city dwellers. As Greenmarket’s flagship market, the seasonal bounty is unparalleled, with hundreds of varieties to choose from during any given season. From just-picked fresh fruits and vegetables, to heritage meats and award-winning farmstead cheeses, artisan breads, jams, pickles, a profusion of cut flowers and plants, wine, ciders, maple syrup and much more. Located in one of New York City’s great public spaces, the atmosphere at Union Square on a market day is electric: 383,000 people walk through the market on a summer day; students of all ages tour the market and learn about seasonality; visitors watch and taste cooking demonstrations by some of New York’s hottest local chefs.
As you walk through the maze of tents and tables it can be hard to grasp just how big the market actually is and what it takes to get all those trucks up and in place in time for the early morning rush. Here’s a birds eye view of the market in all it’s summer glory: