With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about summer and beyond, and that includes getting back to something NYC does best—hosting unforgettable events.

While COVID-19 precautions are still in place, the good news is that The Rooftop at Pier 17 is such a large, open-air venue that it offers a safe, comfortable space for events even as it continues to follow all City and State health mandates. This 65,000-square-foot venue is one of the most unique event spaces in Manhattan, with panoramic views of the city skyline, the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge. Its position five stories up and 300 feet over the river gives attendees the feeling of being enveloped by an expanse of blue sky during the day and by the stars and city lights at night. 

Configured as The Greens, with a layout of 32 mini green lawns, The Rooftop has proved to be incredibly versatile, transforming this month from its winter iteration—made up of individual dining cabins for up to 10 guests—back to the summer set-up casual–style dining and al fresco cocktails. This same laidback rooftop park vibe is what makes The Greens such a unique event space, lending itself to everything from film and TV screenings and intimate listening parties to photo shoots and livestreams. 

In this season of commencement, The Greens also makes a wonderful place to host graduation ceremonies and celebrations, with a dramatic backdrop for the stage, and plenty of space for socially distanced seating on the mini lawns. Plug-and-play A/V packages and on-site amenities like a holding area for students and faculty make production a breeze, and the skyline setting offers one-of-a-kind graduation photo opps that are hard to beat.  

Careful health and safety protocols are in place at The Greens, and throughout the Seaport District, to ensure adherence to the latest government guidelines. Masks are required, as is maintaining six feet between parties. Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the venue and we offer dedicated, heightened cleaning in between each ceremony. 

Pier 17 and the Seaport District are easily accessible by car and public transport, and the area has plenty of dining options for post-ceremony celebrations, including open-air seating on the historic cobblestones, or on the pier with floor-to-ceiling views of the river.  

Learn more about the space and specs for Commencement Ceremonies at The Greens here, and explore the Seaport District’s additional event venue options here. 

For more information and to book an event, please contact Lisa Rubin, Director, Event Sales at 646.265.6007 or lisa.rubin@howardhughes.com.