Brooklyn’s 49th Atlantic Antic Showcases Local Merchants and Global Flavors
Brooklyn’s diverse and vibrant community came together on September 29 for the 49th annual Atlantic Antic street festival. Despite the rainy conditions, vendors and visitors flocked to the event to celebrate the local merchants and global flavors that make Brooklyn unique.
Presented by the Atlantic Avenue Local Development Corporation (AALDC), the Atlantic Antic spans 1.5 miles from Fourth Avenue to the waterfront, encompassing the neighborhoods of Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, and Downtown Brooklyn. The festival featured over 50 local merchants and 300 vendors offering a wide array of goods, from clothing and jewelry to handmade crafts.
Global Flavors and Musical Entertainment
Foodies were in for a treat at the Atlantic Antic, with a diverse selection of culinary delights to choose from. Traditional fair fare like Italian sausages and funnel cake shared space with more exotic options such as bao buns, crepes, lobster rolls, arepas, and tacos. The festival truly offered something for every palate.
In addition to the delicious food, attendees were treated to a lineup of musical entertainment that showcased the talent of local artists. R&B acts took the stage at the Community Stage, while teen bands from Kids Rock For Kids rocked out at Nevins Street with heavy metal and punk-rock hits from bands like Metallica and Green Day. One standout performance came from Batalá New York, an all-woman, Black-led Brazilian drum group that captivated the crowd with their energetic performance along Atlantic Avenue.
Community Engagement and Education
Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon of Brooklyn highlighted the importance of the Atlantic Antic as a community event that not only entertains but also educates. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, Simon noted that attendees were enthusiastic and engaged with the various offerings at the festival.
Simon emphasized the role of the Atlantic Antic in engaging Brooklynites in community planning and educating them about important issues, such as the reproductive rights ballot measure Proposal One. She underscored the need for voter awareness and participation in local elections to ensure that every voice is heard.
The festival also recognized the contributions of local organizations, with the Arab-American Family Support Center receiving the 12th annual Atlantic Avenue Ambassador Award. Mark Foggin, the center’s interim executive director, expressed gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the center’s dedication to serving families from diverse backgrounds.
Multicultural Experience and Artisanal Finds
For many attendees, the allure of the Atlantic Antic lies in its multicultural aspects and unique artisanal offerings. Nikki Zagoc, who attended the festival with her mother and grandmother, praised the event for its diverse array of food, music, and art. The Zagoc family, who make it a point to visit the festival every year, appreciated the opportunity to explore different cultures and discover one-of-a-kind treasures.
Adele, Nikki’s grandmother, emphasized the appeal of the Atlantic Antic’s unique vendors, noting that the festival offers a variety of goods that can’t be found elsewhere. From handmade jewelry to original artwork, the festival provides a platform for local artisans to showcase their talents and connect with the community.
In conclusion, the 49th annual Atlantic Antic was a celebration of Brooklyn’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant community spirit. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, vendors and visitors alike came together to enjoy a day filled with delicious food, captivating performances, and meaningful connections. As Brooklyn continues to evolve and grow, events like the Atlantic Antic serve as a reminder of the importance of community engagement, cultural exchange, and celebration of diversity.
