

Photo by Wally G

For just three hours on Tuesday April 22nd, the New York State Pavilion will be open to the public in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the opening of the 1964/65 World's Fair. This is the first time in 27 years it will be open... so that's kind of a big deal. A big deal that only lasts from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on that one day.

The Pavilion has been long neglected, with a few hard-working volunteers fighting to save it, and Mitch Silverstein of the New York State Pavilion Paint Project said, "We have been working very hard and gaining the trust of the Parks Department and elected officials over the years. They are allowing us to open the gates and allow people to come in and take a little peek." The opportunity is being billed as a rare photo op, and they note that "the viewing area will allow the classic roof and towers backdrop... [and] the Paint Crew will be on hand to answer questions and talk about the past, present, and future of the structure." Preservationist Salamaan Khan says “it’s going to be strange seeing humans back in there. Most people have never been inside."

According to NY1, "they spent $3,500, some of which was donated, and a tremendous amount of time to paint it. Only two volunteers are from Queens... others come from as far as Pennsylvania."

To attend, just show up, no RSVPs are required, and a hard hat will be provided upon arrival. Though perhaps they should charge for the experience, as restoring the Pavilion would cost around $50 million, the Parks Department recently stated.