The East Village Literary Pub Crawl, East Village, New York, is a delightful blend of books, booze, and bohemian history. It’s perfect for anyone who loves literature, history, or just a good old-fashioned pub crawl. This delightful tour combines the rich literary heritage of the East Village with the neighborhood's legendary bar scene. So, grab a pint, don your walking shoes, and embark on a journey through time and prose!
A Brief History
The pub crawl began in the early 2000s as a way to celebrate the vibrant literary past of the East Village, a neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of cultures and artistic endeavors. Over the decades, the East Village has been home to numerous writers, poets, and playwrights. The crawl pays homage to these literary greats by visiting some of their favorite haunts and sharing stories about their lives and works.
The Route
The tour typically kicks off at the historic KGB Bar, a former speakeasy turned literary hotspot. This bar has hosted countless readings and events featuring both established and up-and-coming writers. From there, the tour might take you to McSorley's Old Ale House, one of the oldest continuously operating bars in New York City, where literary giants like E.E. Cummings and John McNulty once drank.
Literary Legends
The East Village has been a muse for many literary legends. Allen Ginsberg, the Beat poet, lived and wrote here for many years. His poem "Kaddish" was inspired by his experiences in the neighborhood. W.H. Auden also resided in the East Village and was known to frequent local bars. The crawl often includes readings of their works, bringing their words to life in the very places they once inhabited.
Fun Facts
- Speakeasy Secrets: Some of the bars on the crawl started as speakeasies during Prohibition. Hidden entrances and whispered passwords were the order of the day.
- Literary Ghosts: There's a rumor that the spirit of Dylan Thomas haunts the White Horse Tavern, another stop on the crawl. Thomas famously drank 18 whiskies here before his untimely death.
- Bookstore Bonanza: The tour often includes a stop at Strand Bookstore, an iconic New York institution with "18 miles of books."
Hidden Gems
- Nuyorican Poets Cafe: This vibrant venue is a cornerstone of the Nuyorican literary movement. It's a great place to catch a poetry slam or open mic night.
- Housing Works Bookstore Cafe: A nonprofit bookstore and cafe that supports homeless people living with HIV/AIDS. It's a cozy spot to grab a coffee and a good read.
Trivia
- McSorley's Ale: Did you know McSorley's only started serving women in 1970 after a court order?
- KGB Bar's Origin: The bar was originally a social club for Ukrainian Socialists. The red walls and Soviet memorabilia give it a unique, retro vibe.
So, whether you’re a literary buff, a history enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good drink, the East Village Literary Pub Crawl offers a little something for everyone. Cheers to literature and libations!