By Pojanee Fleury
Decatur Street between Tompkins and Throop Avenue came alive on Saturday, August 9, 2025, as it transformed into an exciting celebration for its annual block party! The street buzzed with energy as neighbors and visitors gathered to enjoy a day filled with music, delicious food, and fun games for all ages.

Children laughed as they played games and participated in activities, while adults mingled and caught up with neighbors. The vibrant energy emphasized the importance of maintaining community spirit through events like these, a cherished tradition that has strengthened bonds on Decatur Street for over 60 years.

This block party was all about neighbors meeting neighbors. Block association president Gina has continued the long history of organizing on Decatur Street.

She shared, “everybody gets to meet their neighbors, we invite everyone to come out, long-time residents and new tenants, it strengthens the community feel of the block.”

Jane talked about the changes on the block in recent years mentioning that it’s another reason why the block has remained so important to the community, “you get to meet the people on your block so the next time you see your neighbor you can say hi, and actually know who is around you,” Gina explained.

Over the years, the block events have grown beyond just a casual gathering; they’ve become a powerful symbol of connection, unity, and resilience for the community.

These events have provided a space where neighbors can bond, share their stories, and celebrate their collective identity, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends daily routines.

Gina expressed her hope that these traditions will continue to thrive, bringing people together regardless of how much the neighborhood evolves.

Children enjoyed a huge bouncy castle and games in the open street, neighbors cooked for one another, and bookbags filled with valuable supplies were distributed by Brooklyn Scholars Athletes (bkscholarsathletes.com), an organization dedicated to providing basketball training, academic support and team building skills to youth in Brooklyn.

This block party was a testament to the power of community and collaboration. Residents of all ages came together to celebrate their shared heritage and love for Brooklyn.

The event not only highlighted the neighborhood’s rich culture but also served as a reminder of the importance of supporting and uplifting one another. It was a day filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of belonging that left everyone looking forward to next year’s celebration!