LOWER EAST SIDE — Giant Jenga, a dance tent and DJ lessons from Scratch DJ Academy are just a few things visitors can expect to see at the third annual DayLife festival, which will take place Sunday.
The “summer kickoff party” organized by the Lower East Side Business Improvement District will feature a mix of retail, food, games and activities, said Natalie Raben, its director for marketing and communications.
The festival is inspired by the open-air markets that took place in the neighborhood at the turn of the 20th century, so many of the vendors will display their wares in modern pushcarts.
“It’s an unconventional street festival,” Raben said. “It looks different, it feels different and it’s a lot more fun.”
Roughly 40 local vendors will set up shop on three astroturf-lined blocks on Orchard Street, she said. Visitors can grab bites from neighborhood restaurants like Mission Cantina and the Meatball Shop or try on clothing from local retailers. The event will also feature live music and DJ sets on two stages.
The event began in 2012 as a way to revitalize daytime business in the neighborhood. The BID has previously hosted a DayLife event in June and September, but will hold only one this year, Raben said.
DayLife will run from noon to 5 p.m. on Orchard Street between East Houston and Delancey streets. Admission and activities are free.
