The festival took place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Bay Ridge Fifth Avenue Business Improvement District (BID), led by Executive Director Elizabeth Lovejoy, sponsored the event.
“We are thrilled to host the 30th Annual Fifth Avenue festival, which is a milestone,” Lovejoy said. “We’ve introduced exciting, new additions such as pony rides and expanded activities for children. Our aim across all our events is to create a fun, family-friendly atmosphere while driving significant foot traffic to support the success of merchants and vendors.”
Lovejoy has been in the BID since 2017 and executive director since August 2023.
“What’s so appealing about Bay Ridge and Fifth Avenue especially is its diversity,” she said. “It’s a small town in a big city. Everyone knows each other, and that’s why Bay Ridge is so special.”
According to Lovejoy, her greatest accomplishments thus far are obtaining a $75,000 grant from the NYC Department of Small Business Services and the Fun on Fifth festival.
Former State Sen. Marty Golden was among the festival’s spectators.
“It’s events like these that mean a whole lot to the community,” Golden said. “Having people get out and enjoy themselves, getting to know their neighbors and the small businesses in the area — it’s about getting people engaged.”
46th District assembly member Alec Brook-Krasny referred to the festival as “an incredible tradition that started 30 years ago.”
“I’ve been here practically every year, and I so enjoy it,” Brook-Krasny said. “I certainly hope it will go on for another 100 years. It’s about having fun, eating great food and enjoying it with your friends and families.”
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