For the first time in decades, the New York Knicks are back in the Eastern Conference Finals — and their massive fanbase is showing up in force. With energy spilling far beyond the arena, the team’s official Knicks watch parties are getting an upgrade.
Instead of the traditional gatherings outside Madison Square Garden, the playoff action will now be broadcast from Central Park’s SummerStage — one of the city’s most iconic open-air venues.
Why the Knicks watch parties are moving
The relocation wasn’t just a response to hype. According to sources, the decision was made before more than 30,000 fans overtook Seventh Avenue. This happened in an impromptu celebration after Game 6 against the Celtics.
Social media clips showed fans climbing light poles, torching Celtics gear, and packing every available inch of the block surrounding MSG.
With fan turnout pushing NYC street infrastructure to its limits, the Knicks front office made the call to move future free Knicks watch parties to a space with more breathing room.
Starting Friday night for Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers, fans can now gather in Central Park, where food vendors, big screens, and security measures will be in place.
What to expect at the new venue
SummerStage offers significantly more space than Seventh Avenue or outside MSG. It’s still free to attend, and will now feature live entertainment, pregame music, and giveaways.
For Wednesday’s Game 1, a special indoor version of the party happened at Radio City Music Hall, with a $10 admission benefitting the Garden of Dreams Foundation.
Knicks’ official watch party schedule
- 🏀 Game 2: Friday, May 23 – Pacers at Knicks (8 P.M.)
- ⛹🏽♂️ Game 3: Sunday, May 25 – Knicks at Pacers (8 P.M.)
- ⛹🏽♂️ Game 4: Tuesday, May 27 – Knicks at Pacers (8 P.M.)
- 🏀 Game 5: Thursday, May 29* – Pacers at Knicks (8 P.M.)
- ⛹🏽♂️ Game 6: Saturday, May 31* – Knicks at Pacers (8 P.M.)
- 🏀 Game 7: Monday, June 2* – Pacers at Knicks (8 P.M.)
(*if necessary)
Expect the vibe to stay wild. Last Friday, celebrities such as Timothée Chalamet and Spike Lee celebrated with fans. Would it be too much of a long shot if they showed up there, too? Team officials hope moving uptown will preserve the atmosphere without the chaos.
Whether you’re there for the basketball, the buzz, or the energy, this is what playoff New York looks like.