Fall through Bed Stuy

It’s that time of year again – when Bed Stuy comes alive with lots of fun Fall activities that tantalize the senses, stimulate the mind and body, and stir the soul. The 8th Annual Bed Stuy Alive! Festival kicks off this Saturday, October 6 and for the first time, it will be extended over two weeks vs. just one.  Ironically, this festival started around the exact time that I moved to the neighborhood. It was one of the things that helped me to discover the beauty, diversity and history that make up this vibrant community. 

From touring the majestic brownstones on tree-lined streets during the Brownstoners annual house tour to sampling some of the neighborhood’s tastiest cuisine during Savor Bed Stuy, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a family of four or a household of one, a resident of the neighborhood for 50 plus years or a newcomer still trying to find your way, you will find something enjoyable to experience during Bed Stuy Alive!

More than four years ago, I joined the Board of Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation because I wanted to get more deeply involved in building economic development and bringing more arts and culture to the area. I brought on Centric, the television network, as a sponsor of “Restoration Rocks,” the annual music concert that kicks off Bed Stuy Alive! week. Last year, the packed crowd was treated to Yasiin-Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) performing with the Brooklyn Philharmonic. That kind of collaboration isn’t something you see every day. This year promises to be just as exciting as MC Lyte, Brand Nubian and several amazing emerging artists take the stage on Saturday, October 6 from 12-5pm.

The theme of this year’s festival is Live Healthy, Live Well, Live Green. There will be health screenings and seminars on healthy eating available, and for those who are already in good health and/or working on staying in shape, it’s not too late to sign up to participate in this Sunday’s 10k run/walk/ride. (I strongly considered signing up myself, but since Sunday is my birthday, I’m hoping for breakfast in bed instead.) Still, maybe I’ll see you in the crowd at “Restoration Rocks,” enjoying the great music and admiring the newly renovated Plaza area. Maybe we’ll meet while having a bowl of gumbo at Peaches or a scoop of frozen yogurt with your favorite toppings at Brooklyn Swirl. Maybe we will chat over a delicious cup of gourmet coffee at the T-Cup Café or while I’m waiting for my massage to start at Hibiscus Day Spa. Or maybe I’ll just see you walking down the street, marveling over the beautiful homes and fascinating people, and we’ll nod and smile knowingly. Yes, this is Brooklyn in the Fall, and it’s beautiful.