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Published on January 01, 2025
Mayor Eric Adams Launches "Founded By NYC" to Celebrate New York City's 400-Year History and Cultural HeritageSource: Unsplash/Damon Rice

New York Mayor Eric Adams kicked off the new year with a grand proclamation of "Founded By NYC," a city-wide jubilee marking the 400-year history of New York City. Starting tonight, this year-long event is a reflection on the Big Apple's past - acknowledging its indigenous roots, cultural tapestry, and forward-thinking innovations.

Speaking of the significance of this historical milestone, Mayor Adams highlighted, "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," according to a statement obtained by the official NYC Mayor's Office. Notably, the celebration will also honor the Lenape people's legacy, who inhabited the region millennia before European settlers.

Contributing to the city's festivities are numerous organizations like the Lenape Center and The Broadway League. These groups, alongside all city agencies, are collaborating to weave the city's 400-year story into major events, such as Gracie Mansion's art installations, the Museum of the City of New York's exhibitions, and the largest-ever Summer Streets program.

NYC Tourism + Conventions' President and CEO Julie Coker expressed enthusiasm for the campaign's scope, remarking on the city's ability to draw inspiration and breakthrough thinking. The festivities aim to not only commemorate the city's rich past but pave a way to an even brighter future, honoring the contributions of diverse communities.

Adding to the city's archives of celebratory programs, the Museum of the City of New York will present an exhibition titled "Unceded: 400 Years of Lenape Survivance." This show, honoring the original inhabitants of the region, underscores the city's commitment to inclusive storytelling. Meanwhile, as the drums of New Year's Eve beat loud in Times Square, the city gears up for a year that will likely see record-breaking tourist numbers and an avalanche of cultural events.

With its eye also on a sustainable economic resurgence post the pandemic, NYC anticipates a season of growth and revitalization. Visitor spending has buoyed the economy and supported a robust job market, affirming New York's status as a global hub for travelers and the hosting of events as significant as the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 finals.