World Trade Center Oculus to host 10 days of events for 10th anniversary
Images courtesy of Westfield World Trade Center
The World Trade Center Oculus will mark its 10th anniversary next month with 10 straight days of celebrations honoring the architectural landmark. Running from Friday, August 7 through Monday, August 17, festivities at the Lower Manhattan transit hub will include the unveiling of a new floral sculpture, giveaways, live music, artwork created on-site, and other free offerings open to the public. The event series kicks off with an exclusive rededication ceremony and the unveiling of the 10-foot “TEN IN BLOOM” floral installation, designed by world-renowned floral design company Fleurs de Villes.
Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Oculus is meant to resemble a pair of hands releasing a dove, serving as a symbol of hope for New Yorkers following September 11, 2001. Costing $4 billion to build, the Oculus is the most expensive train station in the world.
For a decade, the hub has drawn millions of visitors from around the world to admire its architecture, shop at its retailers, dine at its restaurants and take part in its public art installations, events and experiences.
More than 80 fashion, health, beauty, lifestyle and technology brands operate beneath its striking roof. Eataly NYC Downtown and Épicerie Boulud offer dining options, while the Gansevoort Liberty Market features nine vendors serving cuisines ranging from Peruvian to Japanese, along with more than 20 grab-and-go options.
The Oculus sits above the critical public transit hub, where 13 subway lines, PATH trains, several ferry lines and millions of travelers converge.
To celebrate the milestone, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, which owns the Oculus, is hosting 10 consecutive days of festivities marking a decade of art, dining and connection.
“Designed as a symbol of hope and renewal, The Oculus continues to reflect the resilience and spirit of Lower Manhattan, and we are proud to celebrate ten years of creating memorable experiences alongside our retailers, partners, and the community we serve,” Marco Maldonado, senior general manager of Westfield World Trade Center, said.
On Thursday, August 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a rededication ceremony will feature remarks and a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, followed by a free public celebration beginning at noon with live art, retailer activations, giveaways, and the unveiling of Fleurs de Villes’ “TEN IN BLOOM.”
Throughout the 10-day celebration, guests can take photos with the floral installation and tag @WestfieldWorldTradeCenter on Instagram for a chance to win a $100 gift card to use at Oculus retailers.
Additionally, guests can enjoy exclusive promotions and special offers from participating Oculus shops and restaurants over the course of the celebrations.
On Saturday, August 8, community nonprofit Art on the Ave, which is dedicated to elevating local talent and revitalizing public spaces, will host local artists creating anniversary-inspired artwork live on-site in the Art on the Ave studio.
On Wednesday, August 12, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., NYC-based nonprofit Sing for Hope will host live performances of throwback favorites on the Oculus floor, continuing its mission of making the arts accessible to all.
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