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Bringing to Life "Strawberry Fields Forever"

A Communal Place of Peace

An essential pilgrimage for Beatles fans since John Lennon's death in 1980, Strawberry Fields, located in Central Park, is a living tribute to the man who inspired myriad of people through his music and social activism.

While Strawberry Fields is a popular spot for Beatles fans to gather year–round and for City residents to find solace, it is especially cherished and meaningful on the anniversary of John Lennon's death, December 8.

Selecting & Naming Strawberry Fields

Four months after his tragic murder on December 8, 1980, the City Council designated a 2.5 acre landscape in Central Park "Strawberry Fields," named such after the popular 1967 Beatles song "Strawberry Fields Forever."

Strawberry Fields is located just yards away from John Lennon and Yoko Ono's home, the Dakota Apartments, where Lennon was shot.

Thanks in part to a donation by Lennon's widow Yoko Ono in 1984, landscape architect Bruce Kelly was able to oversee the area's renovation. Two highlights of the landscape, the Garden of Peace and the Imagine monument, were created during this period of improvement (1984-1985).

Garden of Peace: A Meditative Space

Using Yoko Ono's 1984 funding for the improvement of Strawberry Fields, Bruce Kelly designed the Garden of Peace. This contemplative space, fashioned in harmony with the original vision of Central Park creators Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, abounds with shrubs, trees, flowers, and rocks donated by 150 nations around the world.

Imagine a Monument

As part of the Garden of Peace constructed during the 1984 repairs and developments, Neopolitan artisans crafted a circular black and white marble mosaic impressed with the word "Imagine" at its center and donated it to the park.

With its reference to the 1971 hit Beatles song "Imagine," an idealistic song about a better world, and its beautiful starburst pattern, the mosaic provides comfort and inspiration for casual passerby and eager visitor alike.

Visiting Strawberry Fields

Strawberry Fields is located on the west side of Central Park between 71st and 74th streets. By subway, take the B or C train to 72nd Street station and enter the park.