Explore Chinatown and the Lower East Side!

Illuminations: The Lantern Project was supported by NYC Small Business Services as part of their larger efforts to support neighborhood economic development in the Lower East Side and Chinatown.  We encourage you to explore and support our local small businesses and community and cultural organizations.

Maps, lists & resources for your exploration…

1. Welcome to Chinatown’s “Meet Chinatown” map of local favorites and must-see destinations!

Plus, lists such as…


2. Think!Chinatown: an intergenerational non-profit working at the intersection of storytelling, arts & neighborhood engagement.

Think!Chinatown organizes…


3. Chinatown BID’s directory & map!


4. Essex Market, a fixture of the LES since 1818, now in a new home.


5. FABnyc’s members: 40+ Lower East Side based arts & culture nonprofits!

FABnyc also organizes…


6. The East Village Independent Merchants Association’s map & guide to legacy small businesses! 

Plus, lists of…

7. East Village Community Coalition’s directory of local independent businesses, Get Local EV!