Premium Content: ‘End of Summer Multi-Block Party’ lights up Fifth Avenue, captures ‘the spirit of Bay Ridge’
The “End of Summer Multi-Block Party” ran along Fifth Avenue from 2 to 9 p.m. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
By Wayne Daren Schneiderman
September 19, 2024
Copy Link
Email
Facebook
X
LinkedIn
WhatsApp
Telegram
Pinterest
Print
BAY RIDGE — Thousands lined the streets of Fifth Avenue from 68th to 81st Streets the afternoon of Sept. 14 to experience the “End of Summer Multi-Block Party,” a seven-hour community celebration designed to showcase the neighborhood’s vibrant local businesses, encourage foot traffic and bring people together in a joyous, festive atmosphere.
Since 2022, the Bay Ridge Fifth Avenue Business Improvement District (BID) has been hosting multi-block events, continuing the success of the “Open Streets” initiative that began in 2019, Elizabeth Lovejoy, executive director of the Bay Ridge Fifth Avenue BID, told the Brooklyn Eagle.
Children at play. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
“This day is special because it captures the spirit of Bay Ridge, where community and local businesses are at the heart of everything we do,” Lovejoy said. “The event allows residents and visitors to experience all the things Fifth Avenue has to offer, from its diverse shops and restaurants to its welcoming, tight-knit feel. It’s also a perfect sendoff for summer and a chance for neighbors to gather and celebrate.”
Coming together
Lovejoy’s role as executive director is to oversee the planning, coordination and execution of the Multi-Block Party.
“This involves working closely with merchants, partners and NYC Event Coordination and Management and to also ensure that everything runs smoothly,” she explained.
One of the biggest challenges of organizing a Multi-Block Party is coordinating logistics across multiple blocks, including vendor placement, street closures and ensuring safety protocols are met, Lovejoy pointed out.
Kids engaging in some outdoor arts and crafts. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
“Balancing the needs of merchants, securing permits, and handling the promotional aspects also require a great deal of planning and collaboration,” she said.
But in the end, according to Lovejoy, it’s a win-win situation for both the surrounding community, as well as the small businesses in the area.
“For the community, this is a chance to come together and enjoy a day of family-friendly activities, shopping, and food in a relaxed setting,” she explained.
And for small businesses, the event is an invaluable opportunity to connect with new customers, showcase their offerings and build relationships within the community, Lovejoy said.
Live music was also a part of the Multi-Block Party event on Sept. 14. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
“Events like this provide a boost to local businesses by increasing visibility and foot traffic, which is crucial in sustaining a thriving commercial corridor,” she added.
Amazing energy
Each year, Lovejoy aims to build on the successes of previous years, and this End of Summer Multi-Block Party was no exception.
“We saw fantastic participation, and the energy was amazing,” she said. “It felt different this year, because we added some new elements, including more interactive family activities. We were fortunate to have clear skies and sunshine, making for a perfect day.”
Young ones trying their hand at Lego. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
The End of Summer Multi-Block Party was made possible through a partnership with Brooklyn Bridge Parents and Street Lab, Lovejoy noted.
Lovejoy is already in the planning process for more community-friendly events, such as the upcoming Halloween Fest on Oct. 26.
Bay Ridgians enjoying some local cuisine along the avenue. Photo by Arthur De Gaeta
“We are excited to keep the momentum going and continue creating vibrant experiences that bring [everyone] together,” she said.
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.