A Forum for Engagement
The Forum, located on the corner of 125th Street and Broadway, is a unique community gathering space that serves as the gateway to Columbia University's developing Manhattanville campus.
In partnership with University faculty, staff, and internal departments, The Forum hosts academic lectures, conferences, performances and cultural events designed to spark conversation and civic engagement. The Forum provides an important new space where scholars and thought leaders from diverse fields can come together to share ideas, and where Columbia and the local community can engage with New York City and beyond.
Upcoming Events
Lights on the Plaza
November 19, 2024
The Plaza | Lenfest Center for the Arts
Join us on “The Plaza” for Columbia University’s annual Manhattanville winter tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy refreshments and live music with your neighbors before we begin the lights countdown promptly at 5:45 PM. Festive dress optional, but encouraged!
Explore The Venue
Explore The Forum from afar using our new virtual tour, at right. The tour showcases The Forum's rental spaces which include the ground-floor Atrium, a conference auditorium and adjoining foyer, and four meeting rooms. To learn more about each individual space, please visit our Venue page.
A Community Gathering Space
The Forum’s ground floor Atrium is a gathering space open to the public seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (except University holidays). With ample seating, tech tables for charging devices, and free WiFi, the Atrium is ideal for those needing a place to work, study, or meet a friend over a cup of coffee.
Throughout the year, The Forum joins with other Manhattanville-based Columbia departments to host Community Days, which fill the campus and The Forum with a diverse selection of family-oriented programs for Columbia neighbors.
Host Your Next Meeting or Event at The Forum
The Forum is open to reservation requests from University affiliates, namely faculty and staff, as well as outside organizations. The Forum rental spaces include a conference auditorium, with a capacity of 438 people; an adjoining foyer, which can accommodate up to 176 people; and four meeting rooms, ranging in size from a small conference room for 10 to a large meeting room that holds up to 55 people. Each of these rooms includes or can accommodate state-of-the-art technology.
For an overview of The Forum's rental rates and occupancy details by room, please click here.