Brooklyn’s longest-running street festival is turning the big 5-0!
On Sunday, October 5, the Atlantic Antic returns for its golden anniversary — and organizers promise more Brooklyn flavor than ever.
From noon to 6:00 p.m., Atlantic Avenue will transform into a one-mile celebration of culture, cuisine, music, and community, stretching from Hicks Street to Fourth Avenue. This year’s festival will feature over 300 vendors, live performances, and curated nods to its 1970s roots, serving as a love letter to five decades of Brooklyn tradition.
Festivalgoers can sample street food from longtime neighborhood favorites, shop handmade crafts and vintage finds, and enjoy surprises at every turn. The Atlantic Antic is hosted by the Atlantic Avenue Local Development Corporation (AALDC), founded in 1974 to support local businesses and strengthen community ties — a mission that continues to drive the organization 50 years later.
“The long-standing tradition of the Atlantic Antic™ is a true celebration of our community's spirit, creativity, and the history we've built together,” said Howard Kolins, Acting Executive Director of AALDC. “As we mark this special anniversary, we're excited to welcome everyone for a day full of connection and fun. Enjoy free entertainment for all ages, including Mommy Poppins & Brooklyn Bridge Parents' Playtopia, Kids Rock for Kids, and more.”
This year, the festival will spotlight “legacy merchants” — businesses that have anchored Atlantic Avenue for more than 25 years. Special “Legacy Balloons” will mark these storefronts, inviting visitors to explore the stories and faces that have shaped the avenue across generations.
And in true Brooklyn style, the Antic will bring the funk. A ’70s-themed tribute will include a singing competition, retro fashion show, dance party, and a cash prize for the best vintage look. Official Atlantic Antic tees — both classic and new — will be available at AALDC booths on Clinton Street and Third Avenue.
After five decades, the Atlantic Antic remains more than just a street fair — it’s a living piece of Brooklyn history, still pulsing with the same community energy that started it all in 1974.
Getting There:
- Subway: Hoyt Street (2/3), Hoyt-Schermerhorn (A/C/G), and Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center (2/3/D/N/R/Q).
- Bus: B63, B61, B41, and B99.
- Bike: Citi Bike docks located throughout the area.
- Car: Nearby parking at 200, 255, and 301 Atlantic Avenue and 333 Schermerhorn Street. Standard street parking rules apply.
- LIRR: Atlantic Terminal, just steps from the avenue.
- NYC Ferry: South Brooklyn Route to Brooklyn Bridge Park/Pier 6 at Atlantic Avenue.
Want to be part of it?
Vendor applications are open now at atlanticave.org/atlanticantic
