Lafayette Ave. Btw. Marcus Garvey and Lewis Avenue

By Pojanee Fleury
On July 12, 2025, the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, NYC, came alive with energy, laughter, and joy as the 800 Block Association hosted its annual Block Party on Lafayette between Marcus Garvey Ave and Lewis Ave. The event featured activities for all ages, from games and art stations for kids to engaging spaces for adults to mingle and reconnect with familiar faces. Neighbors, friends, and families gathered for a fun-filled day of games, delicious food, and unforgettable memories!

The 800 Block Association returned this year to continue building the annual event that had taken a hiatus during the pandemic, ensuring the tradition of bringing its residents together remains a community fixture. This year’s event featured vendors, live DJ, and activities for all ages, creating a vibrant space for residents and community members to reconnect.

The dynamic DJ Hard Hittin Harry kept the energy high throughout the day! A former resident of the block, Harry brought a personal touch to his set, spinning a blend of timeless classics and new hits. He had the crowd on their feet with tracks like the iconic club banger “Follow Me” and the latest dance craze, “Boots on the Ground.”

His playlist wasn’t just limited to one genre—he seamlessly mixed reggae, soca, merengue, and afrobeat, creating a truly dynamic and inclusive experience. DJ Harry’s music brought everyone together, making the day all the more memorable.

And of course, no block party is complete without amazing food! Vendors and home cooks lined the street with vibrant stalls, serving up a mouthwatering selection of dishes that catered to every taste. From classic New York-style hot dogs and burgers to unique, organic baked goods from The Root of Pie Co.—a local business owned by block resident Denise Burke—there was something for everyone to enjoy!

Adrienne, a long-time resident who has lived on the block since she was eight years old, shared just how much the event meant to her. “This block has my heart,” she said. Along with the newly elected board, Adrienne worked hard to ensure the legacy of the Association remained strong, honoring past and present residents alike.

“We started off with a street clean-up with residents,” she explained, “set up activities for the kids and ended with a fun dance party!” Through their efforts, the block party became more than just a gathering—it was a heartfelt celebration of the neighborhood’s history and future.

Families, friends, and neighbors filled the streets, sharing laughter, food, music, and stories that reinforced the strong bonds among them. The event highlighted the incredible dedication of its organizers, who worked tirelessly to bring people together, and the enthusiastic participation of residents, whose energy and pride made the day truly unforgettable.

The 800 Block Association’s annual block party was a symbol of resilience and unity for the neighborhood. The gathering provided a much-needed opportunity for residents to reconnect and celebrate their vibrant community.

Thanks to the dedication of its organizers and the enthusiastic participation of its residents, the tradition of the 800 Block Association continues to thrive, bringing joy and inspiration to all who attended.