A Celebration of Beauty & Community: 400 Bainbridge St Block Party Recap

The “Flower Block” on Bainbridge Street, between Howard and Saratoga Avenues, hosted its annual summer fun day on Saturday, July 19, 2025. The event celebrated the vibrant beauty of its plant life while bringing block residents together for a day filled with laughter and connection.

It is a cherished neighborhood tradition that not only celebrates the radiant elegance of its meticulously maintained flowers and greenery, which line the block in a stunning display of color and life, but also the strong sense of community and togetherness that permeates the block.

Residents came together to enjoy a day filled with laughter, connection, and community spirit. The event featured activities for all ages, including games for kids and a potluck feast showcasing homemade dishes from neighbors. The street came alive with exciting energy as neighbors, friends, and visitors came together to enjoy the festive atmosphere!

Children laughed and played games in the car-free street, while adults gathered to chat over delicious food and drinks. But the event wasn’t just about having fun—it was about truly building community.

Jane Wright, Co-President of the 400 Bainbridge Street Block Association, shared that when tenants rent on the block, she extends an invitation to join the Block Association. “I want everyone on the block to see themselves as residents and a part of this community, not just a temporary tenant,” she explains.

Wright, a resident of the block for more than 30 years, also shares that the street closure allows residents to take the time to actually see and connect with each other, which is something that is often overlooked in big, busy cities. These connections not only create a sense of belonging and unity but also foster a supportive environment for all individuals within the community.

A Group Effort
Among the dedicated residents who helped make the event truly special were 400 Bainbridge Street Block Association Co-Presidents Rusty (26) and River Fields (23). As active community leaders and founders of the multi-7-figure beauty and wellness brand Honey Glow, Rusty and River brought their passion, energy, and care to the celebration. They personally pitched in to help set up festivities, creating a warm and festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Their commitment to the neighborhood goes far beyond the block party.

They’ve played a vital role in beautifying Bainbridge, transforming Bainbridge’s once refuse-filled tree pits and sidewalks into lush, green spaces—earning the block its well-deserved nickname: “The Flower Block.”

The famed block has received three Love Your Block Grants as well as a Citizens Committee grant, all supporting the block’s blooming beauty. Their green-thumbed dedication has been recognized, and they have been awarded the title of Greenest Block in Brooklyn four times in the Annual Greenest Block in Brooklyn contest. Bainbridge Street is more than just a place where flowers grow – it is a community that comes together to create something beautiful.

Why Block Parties Matter
Events like the 400 Bainbridge St Block Party are more than just days of fun—they are the heartbeat of a thriving neighborhood. They create spaces for connection, break down barriers, and strengthen the ties that keep communities resilient. Moments like these, where strangers become acquaintances and acquaintances become friends, are vital reminders of the power of community spirit.

Jane also reflected on the tradition of their block parties, noting that the Block Association has been organizing these events on Bainbridge Street since the early 2000s. While she admitted that they may not have always hosted the most lavish block parties, Jane emphasized their commitment to closing the block each year. This tradition ensures there is always a day when residents can come together, and, most importantly, provides a safe space for the children to enjoy their block surrounded by neighbors and friends.

From residents like Saleema who make food for the block association’s events to Shelly and Ross who volunteer to shovel snow for neighbors who are unable to do so, and more- everyone contributes in their own way to create a sense of community. The block association and the commitment of residents serve as a powerful example of what can be achieved when people come together with a common purpose. Here’s to future gatherings on Bainbridge Street because when neighbors unite, every block becomes a home and Our Time Press will be there!