[embarcadero]

Yes, but how many of these are rallies (with people speaking)? Even though the south end of the square is usually free, including on market days, Parks will tell you that they do not issue permits when the farmers are in the other parts of the square. Ask them why they issued one to, say, March Against Monsanto, and they'll say that event was "grandfathered in" (ie, has been happening for several years). (And ask MAM and they'll tell you it was a huge hassle for them as well.)

Meanwhile, on the north end of the square the city is privatizing park space: http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/eats/restaurant-union-...