About this event
On Sunday, June 14, 2026, the Albanian community of New York returns to the sidewalk outside the Albanian Consulate on East 79th Street in Manhattan, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. It is the second New York gathering for Vjosa-Narta, after nearly 2,000 people turned out on Saturday, June 6.
Why people are gathering
Vjosa-Narta is a protected lagoon and wetland on Albania's southern coast, near Vlorë, together with the island of Sazan offshore. It is home to flamingos, sea turtles, and one of the last free-flowing river systems left in Europe. A proposed large-scale luxury development would build into that protected landscape, and Albanians across the diaspora have organized to ask that the wetlands be protected. People are calling the wider movement the Flamingo Revolution, after the birds that nest in the lagoon.
New York is not acting alone. On June 6, Albanians gathered the same day in Vlorë, Tirana, Milan, Florence, London, and Toronto. The June 14 gathering continues that coordinated day-of-action energy in front of the consulate.
What June 6 looked like
The first gathering filled the block: families, students, and grandparents, many of whom had driven in from neighboring states. There were flags everywhere, homemade signs, and even inflatable flamingos. People left energized, and the turnout — organized on short notice — is part of why a second date was set so quickly. If you came the first time, this is the weekend to bring someone with you.
What to expect
This is a peaceful, family-friendly gathering. Expect flags, homemade signs, and neighbors who have driven in from New Jersey, Connecticut, and farther. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and anyone you would want standing next to you. There is no ticket and nothing to buy — just show up.
Getting there
The consulate is at 320 East 79th Street, between First and Second Avenues on Manhattan's Upper East Side. The 6 train to 77th Street is the closest subway, and the M79 crosstown bus stops nearby. Street parking is limited on a Sunday afternoon, so public transit is the easier choice. The gathering is outdoors on the public sidewalk, rain or shine.
Where NAR stands
The National Albanian Registry does not take sides in Albanian party politics. We are here for two things: the right of Albanians, wherever we live, to gather and be heard peacefully, and the protection of Albania's natural heritage. This gathering is about both. If you carry Albania in your family, Vjosa-Narta is the kind of place we want our children to see for themselves one day — flamingos on the water and a coast worth being proud of.
