The Top Pigeon of NYC: Celebrating New York’s Iconic Bird at Pigeon Fest
By almost any measure, the pigeon is a humble bird. But on Saturday, New York’s unofficial avian emblem and second most hated critter was celebrated on the High Line in Chelsea at a first-of-its-kind event.
Pigeon Fest: A Day of Pigeon Appreciation
Pigeon Fest, a free, all-day festival celebrated National Pigeon Appreciation Day on Saturday, June 14. In the contest, seven pigeon enthusiasts competed for the title of “Top Pigeon of NYC.” In the end, Miriam, a British artist who has lived in New York City for 11 years, won first place. Pigeons took center stage for a new event in New York City which looked to crown the greatest New York pigeon of them all.
Highlights of Pigeon Fest
The Pigeon Fest schedule included a variety of activities such as:
- 12pm – Zumba: Pigeon Dance Party | Strut your stuff during a high-energy Zumba dance class next to Dinosaur
- 1pm – Mother Pigeon’s Impeckable Puppet Show | Based on the real-life adventures of Mother Pigeon, famed Union Square artist and advocate for all city wildlife
The High Line Pigeon Sculpture
While seeing a flying pigeon may be a regular occurrence for New Yorkers, a 16ft version of the bird is much more rare, and is set to land on the city’s High Line later this year. Perched on the New York High Line, a six-metre-tall (20-foot) pigeon is watching over the city’s residents and challenging their views about themselves and the place in which they live.
Join the Pigeon Celebration
A New York park is celebrating one of the city’s most iconic animals with Pigeon Fest, a day-long event featuring art exhibitions, science demonstrations, and the city’s first Pigeon awards. The Best Plumage, Coolest Moves, Fiercest Flapper, and Avant Garde Avian awards were up for grabs, showcasing the diversity and beauty of this often-overlooked bird.
