NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday announced “Founded by NYC,” a year-long celebration marking New York City’s 400th anniversary.
The initiative will officially launch on New Year's Eve and aims to highlight the city’s history, culture, innovation, and the contributions of its diverse communities.
“For four centuries, history has happened here. And in 2025, through our ‘Founded By NYC’ campaign, we will celebrate all those who came here from around the world over those 400 years to build our great city — the New Yorkers whose vibrant culture, innovation, and abilities continue to make us the envy of the world today — as well as all we continue to do every day to build a future that is safer and more affordable,” Adams said in a statement.
Organizations can visit Founded By NYC to submit events to be added to the Founded By NYC celebration.
Adams extended an open invitation for everyone to participate in the festivities, whether by attending the events or hosting their own to honor New York City’s rich history and enduring spirit.
All year, New York City’s 400th anniversary will also be incorporated into major city events in the worlds of art, film, music, and more, including Gracie Mansion’s art installations, New York City Department of Parks & Recreation free summer movies featuring notable films set in the five boroughs, the 47th Annual Museum Mile Festival, New York Philharmonic free concerts featuring New York City-based composers and performances of iconic New York City songs, performances by Broadway stars, and the largest-ever New York City Department of Transportation Summer Streets with 400 blocks of free events citywide. Dates will be announced in the following months, according to the release.
“To properly recognize our city’s complex, diverse, and unparalleled history, we must also acknowledge the painful parts of its origin, and ensure we are celebrating the Lenape’s rich contributions to our city as much as anyone else’s,” Adams said. “The story of New York City is one of perseverance and triumph, and, in 2025, we will show the world why we are the greatest city in the world.”