The Atlantic Avenue Local Development Corporation is gearing up to mark the 50th anniversary of Atlantic Antic, Brooklyn’s largest and longest-running street festival. On Sunday, Oct. 5, from 12:00pm to 6:00pm, more than a mile and a half of Atlantic Avenue, from Fourth Avenue to Hicks Street will transform into a vibrant celebration of culture, cuisine and community.
This golden anniversary promises a full day of entertainment, food and family fun, honoring five decades of creativity plus neighborhood pride.
"So much has changed in Brooklyn and the Atlantic Antic reflects that evolution," said Howard Kolins, executive director of AALDC. "We honor and celebrate the businesses and vendors who've been with us for five decades, while welcoming newcomers who continue to shape our creative community. We celebrate the path behind us and look forward to the road ahead."
What to Expect at the 50th Atlantic Antic
- Playtopia for Families: Prospect Schools once again teams up with Mommy Poppins and Brooklyn Bridge Parents to host Playtopia near Hicks and Henry Streets, featuring games, crafts plus bubbles for kids ages 0–12.
- Community Stage Performances: The Maimonides Medical Center stage at Third and Fourth Avenues will showcase live music all day, including a 70s singing contest, rock bands and R&B acts. Basketball fans can shoot hoops nearby at the Brooklyn Nets court.
- Middle Eastern Stage: For the 50th year running, musicians and belly dancers will light up the corner of Clinton Street, surrounded by beloved businesses like Sahadi’s and Damascus Bread & Pastry Shop.
- Honoring Local Legends: Merchants with 25+ years on the avenue will be recognized with “Legacy Balloons” outside their storefronts. Longstanding neighborhood favorites such as The Long Island Bar, Make A Frame, Tripoli and more will be celebrated.
- Bindlestiff Family Cirkus: Catch clowns and jugglers between Henry and Court Streets at 1:00pm, 3:00pm and 5:00pm.
- Kids Zone: Boerum Place will be filled with pony rides, face painting and bouncy houses for the little ones.
- Out in 70s Style Fashion Show: Out of the Closet presents a retro runway at 475 Atlantic Ave., complete with a Hustle dance party and Soul Train line between shows at 1:00pm, 3:00pm and 5:00pm.
- Antic Sing! Competition: Singers can take the stage at Third Avenue from 2:00pm–3:00pm to belt out 70s and 80s classics for a chance at cash prizes.
- Kids Rock for Kids: Young musicians from around the world, presented by The Metropolitan Museum of Art, will bring live music to the corner of Nevins Street.
