By Pojanee Fleury
On August 17, 2025, Putnam Avenue between Bedford and Nostrand hosted one of the most exciting block parties of the season! The street transformed into a vibrant mosaic of families, friends, and neighbors, gathered to celebrate their shared community.
By far, the most well attended block party with large crowds grouped together along the street engaged in various activities. From several South Asian families sitting together on cultural rugs sharing traditional meals on end of the block to an impromptu reggae music dance off in the middle of the block to a huge inflatable slide with dozens of children lined up eagerly awaiting their turn on the other end and so more in between – this block party had it all!
While pockets of groups were doing their own thing, it was clear that they planned for and looked forward to this day, intending on making the most of the opportunity to have a great time on their block and build their community and that they did!
200 Putnam Block Association Member Elise Davis said, “This block party is about love and community togetherness,” and that was evident as the impressive turn out showed how much people value the block and their time together. Everyone was so happy to be there with shared laughter and hugs filling the streets.
The DJ could be heard saying, “This doesn’t just happen, this is 10 years of work. It didn’t just come together over night. We worked hard to make this happen and we appreciate everyone who helped make it happen and everyone who has come out over the years.”
This was more than just an announcement or statement – it was a conversation. A conversation about community building and how their community got to this level of genuine unity. It was a testament to perseverance, collaboration, and the faith in what they could accomplish together.
Ms. Davis shared that she is the third generation to own her brownstone on the block, bought by her grandmother in 1939. “We are still here. There have been many changes on the block and in Brooklyn and while we welcome that, there are many of us that have been here for generations and I encourage our people to keep what we have and continue to grow with Brooklyn.”
This dynamic block party on Putnam Avenue proved that communities within communities can come together to make a one stronger community. Neighbors of diverse backgrounds came together, sharing stories of resilience and their visions for a brighter future. This gathering was more than a celebration—it was a testament to the power of unity and collective action, showing how preserving cultural roots can empower communities to thrive and shape their future together.
All photos: Pojanee Fleury