As part of New York City Culture Week, check out the exhibition: African American Garden Diaspora: Same Boat Different Stops on Sunday, Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458. Explore the exhibit at the Edible Academy, created to inspire thought, and to give you a brief look at the history of African American Foodways through the lens of plants.

 

As part of New York City Culture Week, on Monday, Oct. 28, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., check out the Fagan Technique Workshop led by Natalie Rogers-Cropper at Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center, 3415 Olinville Ave, Bronx, NY 10467. This event is a collaboration between the Mind-Builders Master Dance Class Initiative and The Joyce Theater’s Professional Class Series. Mind-Builders Master Dance Class initiative is designed to amplify dance spaces and voices within and throughout The Bronx.

 

EVENTS

The 39th Annual Bronx Halloween Parade takes place on Oct. 26. See attached flier for details.

 

The Bronx County Historical Society presents The Surrealist Gypsy and The Poet Exhibit Closing, Book & Costume Party at Poe Cottage on Nov. 2. See attached flier for details.

 

An Annual Pumpkin Party takes place at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center in Norwood on Saturday, Oct. 26. See attached flier for details.

The New York Public Library hosts New York Crime Stories: Reading from the Archives, on Monday, Oct 28, at 7 p.m. Dive into the library’s collections for true tales of crime and chicanery from some of the city’s most outstanding lawbreakers. In-person registration for this event has sold out, but livestream tickets are still available. A limited number of standby tickets may be available on the night of the event, which features Noah Galvin, Omar Maskati, Adrienne C. Moore, Ajay Naidu, Roxy Sternberg, Sam Waterston, and more!

 

 

NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced on Friday, Oct. 25, 147 car-free Trick-or-Streets locations for Halloween. The initiative will help children enjoy the holiday and allow New Yorkers to safely utilize the City’s collective front yards – its streets. For a map of each location, visit nyc.gov/trickorstreets. At Trick or Streets locations, New Yorkers can expect festive programming, performances, arts and crafts, fitness classes, giveaways, and more.

 

The Bronx County Historical Society is hosting the Dead Poets Rise at Poe Cottage on Nov. 2. See attached flier for details.

 

Freedomland Talk 

Located in The Bronx, Freedomland U.S.A. was celebrated as the “Disneyland of the East.” While it survived only five seasons (1960-1964), the park continues to generate fond memories among boomers who enjoyed its American, history-themed attractions. Many younger NYC residents are surprised to learn of such a large scale and well-appointed theme park that existed in The Bronx.

Freedomland was built over marshland in the east Bronx where Co-op City and a shopping mall now stand. Unfortunately for the park, senior local politicians, city planners and construction unions at the time considered the park a “placeholder” until property variances permitted development on the marshland. Michael Virgintino, journalist, author and noted Freedomland expert will present the history of the park on Thursday, Nov. 7, at Edgehill, 2570 Independence Avenue, Bronx.

Council Member Pierina Sanchez will host a Fall Festival on Friday, Oct. 25, in St. James Park. See attached flier for details.

 

 

Bronx Community Board 7 will host a Veterans Day Commemoration on Nov. 9. See attached flier for details.

 

Future of Mosholu Parkland will be hosting a Daffodil Planting event on Nov. 2 & 3. See attached flier for details.

The Roberto Clemente Award is bestowed annually to a baseball player who best represents the game of baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and positive contributions, both on and off the field. Every year, each MLB Club nominates a player to be considered for the Award in tribute to Clemente’s achievements and character. This year’s list of nominees features players whose various community and philanthropic activities have focused on important issues ranging from awareness and fundraising to support those with cancer and other illnesses or special needs, education for young people, natural disaster relief, outreach to underserved children and communities in the United States and abroad, and more. Click here for more details.

 

Jerome Gun Hill BID will host a Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 26. See attached flier for detals.

 

The Riverbay Fund presents the Co-City Halloween Parade on Saturday, Oct. 26. See attached flier for details.

 

Bronx native horror author, Vincent Tirado presents a Book Talk on Nov. 8. See attached flier for details.

 

Northeast Bronx YMCA & Councilman Kevin Riley (C.D. 12) will be hosting a Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 26. See attached flier for details.

A Trunk or Treat event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26, hosted by various elected officials. See attached flier for details.

 

A Haunted House event will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 30, hosted by State Sen. Jamaal Bailey & B.R.A.G. See attached flier for details.

 

 

The Office of the Bronx Borough President & partners presents a Pumpkin Patch Party on Thursday, Oct. 31.  See attached flier for details.

 

A Fordham Night Market Silent Disco will take place on Saturday, Oct. 26. See attached flier for details.

The MASC Hospitality Group in partnership with the Bronx Borough President’s Office will host Halloween at Fordham Plaza on Saturday, Oct. 26, from noon to 7 p.m. at 1 Fordham Plaza, Bronx, NY 10458. There will be music, a silent disco, a costume contest, trick-or-treating, and live performances. For more information, visit www.maschospitalitygroup.com.

 

Various elected officials are hosting a Community Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 26. See attached flier for details.

 

One Book One Bronx will discuss Killing the Black Body by Dorothy Roberts on various dates throughout October and November. See attached flier for details.

 

An Annual Haunted House event will be held in the Williamsbridge Oval Center in Norwood on Friday, Oct. 25. See attached flier for details.

 

Miss Abbie’s Kids will host an Halloween Health & Fitness Block Event on Thursday, Oct. 31. See attached flier for details.

 

Various elected officials and partners will host a Halloween Skate Party on Friday, Oct. 25. See attached flier for details.

 

The JBOLC Garden Community Farmers Market takes place each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. See attached flier for details.

On Saturday, Oct. 26, from noon to 3 p.m., the YMCA of Greater New York is partnering with House of SpeakEasy to bring their “Bookmobile” to the Northeast Bronx YMCA, 1250 E 229th St, Bronx, NY 10466. The Bookmobile, a modified box truck outfitted with 54 feet of shelving, will deliver free children’s books to young New Yorkers of all ages at the YMCA’s annual “Trunk or Treat” community event, which is expecting upwards of 300 neighborhood youth to attend with their families. Kids can trick or treat from trunk to trunk in a line-up of vehicles parked in the parking lot with trunks or tailgates full of goodies.

A number of citywide events highlighting Black Excellencecan be found on eventbrite.

 

The NYBG’S Wonderland: Curious Nature exhibition inspired by the beloved classics Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, And What Alice Found There, is showing through Oct. 27, 2024, across the Garden grounds. Visitors can stop by the Unbirthday Truck at the Farmers Market to complement their Wonderland visit with snacks, sweets, tea-to-go packages, and more. Live music accompanies the diverse offerings, creating a delightful experience for weekly produce shopping.

 

A TV series focusing on the immigrant experience called “#Stressed” airs on BronxNet, and premiered on June 19. Drawing on themes such as the immigrant experience and body positivity, with an aspirational narrative, the series highlights the diversity and commonality of immigrant experiences, beauty standards, and desires for success and acceptance through the lens of director Kobina de Graft-Johnson and creator and screenwriter Jasmine Patrice White. The series stars actress Abena Mensah-Bonsu. Read our latest story on the new series here.

 

New York Botanical Garden (NYBG)’s Beer Garden at the Leon Levy Visitor Center, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10458, continues to have craft beers to purchase, as well as grab-and-go meals, snacks, and drinks at the Pine Tree Café at the same NYBG location. NYBG is located at 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458-5126.

 

COMEDY

Bronx Comedy has taken over the Arthur Avenue Retail Market since Jan. 29, 2024, every Monday at 7 p.m. Producer Walt Frasier is teaming up with Pauly DiSilvio of LCG Cigars to bring professional stand-up comedy, improv comedy, music and even murder mystery events to The Bronx’s Little Italy. Frasier has 20+ years of comedy performance and production experience and has been seen on HBO, MTV, NBC’S Blacklist, CBS’s Blue Bloods and Letterman, Showtime’s Billions and more.

 

The “Anything Makes A Mark” exhibit, curated by Ella Santos, features the works of Bronx-based artist, Tristan Schane, at The Green House Gallery, 315 East 201st Street, Bronx, NY 10458, on Dec. 6, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Schane describes his work as “meditations of the collective identity of mankind, of my society, of my own little corner of the world.”

Bronx Council on the Arts (BCA) is seeking a Bronx-based youth journalist for its Youth Engagement Program (YEP) to write articles related to the Longwood Art Gallery! If you are between the ages of 18-24, BCA invites you to apply to its open call! A stipend of $200 per 500-word piece will be provided for each article. Apply by Nov. 15 at 11:59 p.m. at https://buff.ly/3BxTfks.

 

NYC Parks presents a Paint & Sip event on Nov. 15. See attached flier for details.

 

A Family Paint Along event will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23, at St. James Recreation Center. See attached flier for details.

 

A Paint Party Series will be held from Oct. 2 to Dec. 20 at St. James Recreation Center. See attached flier for details.

 

An Artist Gallery Group will meet from Oct. 1 to Dec. 19 at St. James Recreation Center. See attached flier for details.

 

Cubism Painting classes will be held from Oct. 1 to Dec. 17 at St. James Recreation Center. See attached flier for details.

Click here to check out Free Museum Days in New York City during 2024.

 

Pelham Art Center (PAC) kicked off the third year of its youth leadership programming, which includes free weekly open studios, a Teen Artist Council, and a five-month internship program, offering teens the opportunity to create and learn about art through a variety of unique channels. Teen Open Studios meet at the Pelham Art Center every Friday evening from 3.30 to 5.30 p.m. The studios are open free of charge, and a variety of materials are available for participants to use. No pre-registration is required.

 

The Teen Artist Council is a volunteer opportunity that provides students with real world experience in the arts. Participants lead public events, organize trips and movie nights, select panelists for PAC’s Careers in the Arts Panel series, and curate their own gallery exhibition. PAC’s Internship Program welcomes high school and college students to gain hands-on work experience and learn valuable skills while contributing to a community-based nonprofit art center.  While Fall internships are already underway, a new class will open up in March 2025. For additional information on Pelham Art Center’s teen programming, visit https://www.pelhamartcenter.org/education/teenprograms/, and follow Pelham Art Center Teens on Instagram (@pac_teens).

 

Junior McLean from the 149th and Tinton Avenue area in The Bronx is a self-taught artist since 1996. For years, he studied art and learned by reading at public libraries or studying online tutorials from online art groups like Renderosity and Deviant art. From 2005-2011, he used to have small, public art exhibitions. Currently, he is a freelance artist and wants to encourage other artists to stay creative and use their talents in a way that is positive to the neighborhood and each other. His social media links are:

Junior’s Digital Designs ((IG))

https://www.instagram.com/juniorsdigitaldesigns

Junior’s Digital Designs ((Twitter/X))

https://www.twitter.com/TheFractalKing/

Junior’s Digital Designs ((Business Page FB))

https://www.facebook.com/juniorsdigitaldesigns

Junior has a Redbubble Artwork Store for those seeking greeting cards, postcards and other custom products for sale at Junior’s Digital Designs Redbubble Artwork Store  https://fractalking.redbubble.com. He says he plans to collaborate with Link NYC about having his artwork seen/featured on their “Art on Link” program in the Tristate area. His work was featured last August with Link NYC for 3 weeks.

Local artist and photographer, Jordan Moss, a former editor of the Norwood News, runs the website, “Art All Around Us,” which can be accessed here. His photos and abstract/mixed media work can also be viewed on IG @jordanmossbx. Greeting cards with his photo prints are available on Etsy. Moss’s art/photography exhibit is showcased from time to time locally such as at Poe Park Visitor Center, south of the corner of Grand Concourse and Kingsbridge Road.

The Bronx Night Market takes place on the first Saturday of the month at Fordham Plaza from April to October. The Bronx Night Market is not merely a culinary gathering; it is a powerful reflection of the community’s resilience, creativity, and collective pride, contributing to the borough’s cultural richness and economic vibrancy. Click here for more information.

 

Edible Academy Fresh from the Garden Tastings takes place at the New York Botanical Garden on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Get hands-on with healthy cooking using new recipes featuring plants grown in the Edible Academy. NYBG staff create family-friendly recipes using seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs, and kids and adults alike can learn how garden-to-table cooking is not only nutritious, but fun, too. While you’re exploring the Edible Academy, get hands on with the crops in the vegetable garden during Dig! Plant! Grow! each month. For more information, click here.

 

FILM

The Bronx Filmakers Collective presents Lavender Film Lab, an experimental filmmaking workshop for senior 2SLGBTQAI+ Bronxites. See attached flier for details.

Bronx Independent Cinema Center has launched a campaign to bring independent film to The Bronx. Click on the donation link here for details. Read our latest story on the topic here.

MUSIC 

NYC Parks is hosting a Spoken Word and Open Mic Night at Poe Park Visitor Center on Friday, Dec. 6. See attached flier for details.

The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd West, Bronx, is proud to present Venezuelan legend, José Luis Rodríguez, “El Puma,” on Saturday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m. As a Venezuelan singer and actor who Lehman offcials say has endured the test of time, El Puma has captivated fans for six decades with anthemic ballads such as “Culpable Soy Yo,” [Guilty Am I], “Dueño De Ti” [I Belong to You] and “Agárrense De Las Manos” [Hold hands]. Click here to read our latest story published ahead of the Oct. 26 show. Click here for more details on the Nov. 2 show.

 

The Orchestra of The Bronx will present its Annual Handel’s Messiah concert on Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. at the Lovinger Theatre at Lehman College, 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West, Bronx, joined by soloists and chorus of The Bronx Opera and 23 guest speakers, representing residents from the political, business, media and education spheres in The Bronx, including an honors student, a waiter in a popular restaurant, and a hip-hop artist, who will introduce each musical section, speaking Handel’s text. The Orchestra will be conducted by Michael Spierman, and soloists and the chorus will be directed by Ben Spierman. All are welcome and admission is free.

 

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd West, Bronx, is proud to present the “I Like It Like That” musical on Saturday, Nov. 2, at 8 p.m. Directed by Waddy Jáquez and produced by David Maldonado and David Rodriguez, the producers of the hit musical launch an electrifying concert tour, featuring an all-star band and original cast performing extended versions of both beloved classics and new hits. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Lehman Center box office at (718) 960-8833 or online at https://www.lehmancenter.org/events/like-it-like-that.

The Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd West, Bronx, is proud to present La Gran Gala starring Pavel, Maridalia Hernández, Milly Quezada, Lee Burgos, Mari Solis, and Obrien Luna on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 8 p.m. Get tickets here. Pavel Núñez is a sensational Latin grammy nominated artist from Dominican Republic. Patrons who purchase VIP tickets (first 9 rows of Orchestra Center) are invited to attend a special reception at 6.30 p.m. on the day of the show.

 

Bronx Talk show host Gary Axelbank hosts a new music podcast, The Bronx Music Podcast with Gary Axelbank, recorded in front of a live audience at The Artist performance venue on City Island. Click here to read our latest story. For the latest episodes, listen on the following platforms Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube. The podcast is recorded in front of a live audience on the first Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. at ‘The Artist’, 249 City Island Avenue, City Island, Bronx, NY. The Artist venue was recognized as the 2023 Best Concert Venue in The Bronx.

Enjoy Community Karaoke at KRVC, 505, West 236th Street, each Friday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. See attached flier for more details.

You can often find different types of live music at An Béal Bocht Irish restaurant and pub, located at 445 West 238th Street in Riverdale.

 

The Revolution of Hip Hop exhibit at Bronx Terminal Market remains open Tuesday to Saturday from noon to 7 p.m., and on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. Visit the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s website at hhhm.org for more information. For more information on the development of the Universal Hip Hop museum building, check out our latest story.

 

DANCE

Calpulli Mexican Dance Company presents El “Día de Muertos” weekend performances for the general public on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 8 p.m. and on Sunday, Oct. 27, at 3 p.m. in the main theater of Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, 500 Grand Concourse at 149 Street, Bronx. Call the Hostos Box Office at (718) 518-4455 for more information. In this spectacular production with new dances and expanded storyline, the critically acclaimed Calpulli Mexican Dance Company presents a breathtaking love story that transcends the boundaries of life and death. Suitable for all ages and backgrounds!

KIDS

The Mosholu branch of the New York Public Library is hosting Bangla Playtime for Little Learners on various dates through Dec. 5. See attached flier for details.

The Bronx Children’s Museum offers a range of activities for the borough’s children to enjoy. See our latest story on the museum’s opening here. When the museum welcomed its first children for a preview of the new facility with special guest, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, and were asked how they enjoyed it, the children reportedly responded, “A-MAZ-ING!” The opening hours for the museum, located at 725 Exterior Street near Yankee Stadium along the Harlem River, can be found on the museum’s website here.

 

The Nest Music Conservatory is a non-profit organization providing music education to youths in the Bronx through out-of-school programs. The organization is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment that contributes to the social and emotional growth of students, their families, and communities through classes, events, and concert series. The center, located at 3636 Holland Ave, The Bronx, NY 10467, USA is open daily, Monday to Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Call (718) 994-6378 for more information. 

 

A photo exhibition on “Jewish Identity/Jewish Diversity” is on display at Hostos Research Center, Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse, C-130, Bronx, 10451. The exhibition is part of the multi-year CUNY Anti-Hate Initiative, aiming to educate the CUNY community about diverse groups’ identities and experiences. This year focuses on Jewish and Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islanders. Next year, the initiative will spotlight Black/African American and Hispanic/Latinx demographics, followed by Muslims and the LGBTQIA+ groups in the third year. The exhibit is made possible through the generous support of Hostos Community College, the CUNY Anti-Hate Initiative, and The Covenant Foundation.

 

SPOKEN WORD, STORY TELLING, & LITERACY

Mosholu Library is hosting an Informal Creative Writing for Adults class on Mondays. See attached flier for details.

Neighborhood Stories is a storytelling initiative by the NYC Department of Records and Information Services (DORIS) to gather and preserve the stories of NYC neighborhoods. Learn more about the project, and how to share memories of your neighborhood and community here.

 

 

NYC Veterans’ Veteran Voices Project records the stories of NYC’s veterans and preserves their legacy. Learn more at nyc.gov/vetvoices.

DYK? @nycveterans launched the Veteran Voices Project (VVP) to record the stories of NYC's veterans and preserve their legacy.
🎙️ Learn more about this oral history initiative at https://t.co/k6d4WfIHIW#VeteransDay #NYCVeteransDay21 pic.twitter.com/FTKKjI2R0Z

— NYC Consumer and Worker Protection (@helloDCWP) November 11, 2021

 

MOVEMENT

7th Annual 5K Run/Walk/Roll to End Domestic Violence

The 7th Annual 5K Run/Walk/Roll to End Domestic Violence will be held on Saturday,Oct. 26, from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. See attached flier for details.

 

Rep Your Hood presents the 3rd Annual Bx All Day Community Relay on Sunday, Oct. 27. See attached flier for details.

Seniors are invited to visit St. James Recreation Center, 2530 Jerome Avenue, Bronx for a Holiday 8-Ball Billiard Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. Players will compete against some of the best for a chance to win a first or second-place trophy. Participants must have NYC Parks Recreation Center membership to participate. Membership is free for youth and young adults ages 24 years and under. For more information, call (646) 447-2642, email Kelize.St.Bernard@parks.nyc.gov or visit nyc.gov/parks. See attached flier.

The 3rd Annual Bronx All Day Community Relay hosted by Bronx Sole takes place on Sunday, Oct. 27, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The relay includes walking, running, biking, skateboarding, and roller skating. Routes and estimated start times will be provided days ahead of the event. Bronx natives, residents, students, schools, churches, businesses and organizations are invited to participate. For more information, visit https://linktr.ee/BronxSole.

 

Boogie Down Bronx Runners is a collective of everyday Bronx residents whose mission is to promote wellness, inspire, and engage people of all abilities. They generally meet on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. for a 3-mile run or a 2-mile walk/run and do long runs on Sundays. They meet at 785 Pelham Parkway North on Tuesdays.

 

Shape Up NYC hosts a Running Group in the Williamsbridge Oval park on Wednesdays and Fridays. See attached flier for details.

For New Yorkers 60 years old and over, a Seniors Fitness program offers free twice weekly pickleball, tennis, yoga, and fitness walking classes across all five boroughs since April 2023. Participants of all levels are welcome to come out, have fun, and socialize. Visit https://cityparksfoundation.org/ or call (212) 360-1399 for more information.

 

 

NYC Parks Recreation Center Membership is free for youth and young adults ages 24 and under. For more information visit nyc.gov/parks. Contact accessibility@parks.nyc.gov or (212) 360-1430 for more information regarding accessibility. Note St. James Park Recreation Center in St. James Park, Fordham Manor, reopened in the summer of 2024.

 

NYC Parks GreenThumb is the largest community gardening program in the country, with more than 550 community gardens across the city, totaling over 100 acres of public space. Established in 1978, this program has been providing programming, material support and technical assistant to gardens across New York City for over 45 years.

 

In partnership between GreenThumb and thousands of volunteers, the city’s gardens are stronger than ever and still at the forefront of community activism. They provide health and shade, venues for music and art, and cultivate a feeling of togetherness and shared mission. For more information on Open Garden NYC, and to find participating gardens near you, visit nyc.gov/parks and search Greenthumb. Beginners and experienced gardeners are all welcome!

 

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG), 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458-5126, invites residents to participate in its EcoQuest Challenge. EcoQuests, part of the NYC EcoFlora Project, challenge New Yorkers to become community scientists and observe, study, and conserve the native plants, fungi, and animals of the City via iNaturalist, an easy-to-use mobile app.

 

Each month, NYBG EcoFlora will announce a new Challenge where they need help documenting the wild flora and fauna of New York City by taking and sharing photos via iNaturalist. Download the iNaturalist App or register at iNaturalist.org. Take photos for the month’s EcoQuest Challenge. Post your findings on iNaturalist so they can be added to the NYC EcoFlora Project.

 

There are no wrong observations. Each observation contributes vital information to reveal traits and processes largely unknown before due to a lack of data and coordination between data sets. Millions of individual data points add up to big data that will enable new insights and opportunities for research, conservation, and engagement. Please do not disturb animal activity as you record your observations.

 

Walking History Tours of Hard Island with an NYC Parks Urban Park Ranger guide are now live. Click here for more information.

 

A Community Fitness & Wellness series is ongoing every Tuesday at Bridgefield Civic League in Williamsbridge. See attached flier for details.

There’s no need to head Upstate to experience the awe of New York’s natural wonders. Plan your next Hiking Trip right here in New York City! The city’s 300 miles of trails will take you through some of its oldest forests, and past 10,000 acres of wild and untouched natural areas, glacial potholes, and bedrock you can see and touch. As you explore these beautiful parks, you’ll come across all kinds of wildlife, from the majestic ospreys nesting high up on utility poles to turtles sunbathing on rocks in the ponds. Along the way, you can also visit historic places that give a glimpse of Old New York and tell the story of our city. Be sure to pack plenty of water, and wear sunscreen and layered clothing. Visit the Bronx River Park hiking plan here.

 

Shape Up NYC presents Leap to the Beat Sundays at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center at 10 a.m. See attached flier below for more.

 

Gentle Yoga Flow classes with Shape Up NYC and NYC Parks have begun at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center at 3225 Reservoir Oval East in Norwood since Nov. 9, 2023 and continue each Thursday at 6.30 p.m. Bring a mat. See attached flier.

For New Yorkers 60 years old and over, a Seniors Fitness program offers free twice weekly pickleball, tennis, yoga, and fitness walking classes across all five boroughs since April 2023. Participants of all levels are welcome to come out, have fun, and socialize. Visit https://cityparksfoundation.org/ or call (212) 360-1399 for more information.

 

The only operational Ice Rink in The Bronx has been renovated and reopened on Nov. 20 at Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club in Castle Hill. As a part of the Frederic R. Coudert Sports Complex, the ice skating rink provides professionally trained staff and visiting coaches that feature individuals with over 15 years of professional experience of ice skating.

 

The ice skating rink is managed by ASAC Management and with over 30 years of ice skating management, ASAC has specialists from a wide variety of diverse backgrounds offering expert training techniques. The age range for the ice rink (during program hours) is 6-18. For more information, contact athletics director, Darril Almonte, on darril.almonte@kipsbay.org or visit https://www.kipsbay.org/icerink. Read our recent story on the reopening here.

 

Learn to Become a Lifeguard. Make summer happen for NYC! Becoming a lifeguard is a rewarding experience. You’ll work outdoors in some of New York City’s most iconic locations, playing a critical role in helping New Yorkers of all ages and abilities have safe access to beaches and pools. Click here for more details or see attached flyer below. Read our latest story here.

Van Cortlandt Park Nature Center, Van Cortlandt Park, 246th Street and, Broadway, Bronx, NY 10471, is open every Saturday and Sunday. See attached flier below for more information.

Exercise Classes in Cantonese 

Visiting Nurses Services NY is inviting the public to virtual, exercise classes in Cantonese on Tuesdays, from 2.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. See attached flier below for more information.

BronxWorks and Twin Parks West Older Adult Center, 355 East 183^rd Street, Bronx, NY 10458, invites residents to come join some fun classes Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. See attached flier below for details.

 

 

Running group, Bronx Nomads, generally meet at the Bainbridge Avenue entrance to the Williamsbridge Oval in Norwood on Mondays at 6.30 p.m. to run together safely. Founded 5 years ago, the group caters to those with different levels of fitness. You can follow Bronx Nomads on Instagram and Facebook or email the group at bronxnomads@gmail.com. Read our latest stories on two of the club’s runners who recently completed the 2023 TCS New York City marathon here and here.

Elected officials, City agency partners, and community-based organizations continue to host the Saturday Night Lights citywide program to work together to keep 100 gyms across the City open for free, high-quality sports programs for kids on Saturday nights, ensuring no indoor gyms are closed on these nights – the time when they are needed most by kids in city communities. Click on the following link to watch a video extract of the Saturday Night Lights Relaunch, where Mayor Eric Adams can be seen observing some of the kids in action.

 

Each Saturday evening, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., children and youth, aged 11 to 18, are able to enjoy an array of indoor sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, dance, martial arts and more. According to the organizers, a key component of the program is bringing cops and kids together. Teams of youth coordination officers from NYPD precincts are at each of the 100 gymnasiums every Saturday night, helping to coach, and joining members of various community based organizations to interact with young people and help make a lasting and positive impact in their lives.

 

Mosholu Montefiore Community Center, located at 3450 Dekalb Avenue, is the local venue for the program in Norwood, while the Fordham Heights program is run at 2255 Webster Avenue, Bronx, NY 10457. For a list of all venues, scan the QR code in the below flier. (If you cannot access the QR code from the attached flyer, click on this link.

 

As reported, an additional 25 city gyms and an additional $1.25 million investment in the Saturday Night Lights program was announced on July 9, 2022. To find a gym near you, click here.

Gotham City Panthers is an amateur basketball team founded by Eric King. Click on the link for more information.

 

Theory 9’s Rising Kings Basketball Club caters to different age groups in the Kingsbridge Heights neighborhood. Click here for more details.

 

Bronx Buccaneers is a Bronx football club which usually meets to train in the Williamsbridge Oval, located at 3225 Reservoir Oval East, in Norwood. Understanding there is more to football, the Buccaneers strive to develop the students/athletes, and the hope is that the players will use the program not only as a stepping stone to advance to upper level sports in High School and college, but also as a means to engage in positive behavior and as a healthy distraction from idleness, which the team organizers say can lead to poor decisions. The Buccaneers accept kids from any community, boys or girls, ages 6 to 14.

 

The club kicks off its 2025 season with a Winter Bootcamp which begins in January (date to be determined) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Williamsbridge Oval. Players and families are invited to participate in this optional event, and are encouraged to dress warmly and to be ready to work hard. In March, the group begins their regular tackle football practice and registration. Contact Tasha Andrews at (917) 662-3632 for further information.

Bronx Panthers Youth Football & Cheer save lives through football, and are recruiting all age groups. Call the numbers in the attached flier, above, for more information.

 

NYC Parks Movement Events 

Hiking Trails

NYC has 300 miles of nature trails! Find a trail and go exploring

 

Download the NYC Bike Map

Our friends at NYC DOT have published their annual map of NYC‘s bike paths and trails.

 

The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is a museum of plants, including 50 gardens and plant collections spread across a 250-acre National Historic Landmark site. Founded in 1891, The New York Botanical Garden is the most comprehensive botanical garden in the world and an integral part of the cultural fabric of New York City, anchored in the Bronx. Visitors come to the Garden to connect with nature for joy, beauty, and respite, and for renowned plant-based exhibitions and programming. Visit NYBG’s website to plan your visit: https://www.nybg.org/visit/. Check out the events listed below among others which are ongoing at the garden.

 

New York Botanical Garden (NYBG)’s Bronx Neighbors Program offers free Grounds-Only Admission to Bronx Residents Tuesday to Sunday and Monday federal holidays, offering the local community access to nature in their backyard, programs for the whole family, and more. Get your tickets online now, or learn more about other ways to receive your FREE Bronx Resident Grounds-Only admission ticket. Up to 6 tickets per transaction.

 

On Tuesday, and Thursday-Sunday; a grounds access pass to the New York Botanical Garden is available for purchase by NYC residents only. Proof of residency is required and may only be purchased onsite. On Wednesdays, grounds admission is free to NYC residents all day and to all other visitors between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Grounds admission includes access to outdoor gardens and collections, including the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.

• 250 acres to explore year-round
• The largest surviving old-growth forest in New York City
• Two family gardens for hands-on exploration
• Free mobile guides with audio tours, videos, and special content!

 

Forest Bathing at NYBG is an ongoing, audio, self-guided tour of the Thain Family Forest. Click here for more information. Allow yourself to be fully present as you bathe your senses in the sights, smells, sounds, and sensations of the Thain Family Forest with forest bathing experiences, known as shinrin-yoku in Japan. In Japanese shinrin means forest, and yoku means bath. This audio guide focuses on slowing down and experiencing the sensory connections that help calm the mind and deepen reflection under a glorious forest canopy. This experience takes roughly one hour from beginning to end. You can also choose to do a shorter 20-minute session and conclude after Track 2. (The tracks are accessible through your mobile device via the link above.)

 

GARDENING

Join the New York Botanical Garden’s Floral Design, Gardening, Landscape Design, Botanical Art, educational program, and explore hundreds of classes to educate, inspire, and guide you. Visit www.nybg.org for more details.

 

Free your creativity with Seasonal Workshops at NYBG. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, a budding apartment gardener, or you’re looking to explore the healing benefits of plants, NYBG’s Continuing Education program offers hands-on, one-day courses that supply you with creative ways to work plants into your daily routine. Explore a wealth of diverse offerings and fall in love with a new skillset this season. Click here for more information.

 

Plant Studio starts April 2024 at NYBG. Click here for more details. Discover the perfect balance of flexible coursework and expert instruction with NYBG Plant Studio, the newest addition to The New York Botanical Garden’s Continuing Education program. NYBG’s bite-sized, online courses are tailormade for the plant curious, plant advocate, or busy plant lover. Students will dig into gardening, botany, floral design, landscape design, and more from the comfort of their own space, whenever it fits their schedule, and meet an array of seasoned plant professionals eager to expand their plant knowledge through pre-recorded course videos; virtual tours of gorgeous garden spaces, often off-limits to the general public; and personal feedback on hands-on projects. Students will become a part of a diverse community of fellow nature enthusiasts and gain new skills from NYBG plant professionals.

 

 

Editor’s Note: We will update this feature article as more events become available.