African Heritage Festival draws big crowds to Crotona Park

african heritage festival
Numerous community members gathered at the annual African Heritage Festival in Crotona Park.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson partnered with the African Advisory Council of the Bronx to host the annual African Heritage Festival on Saturday, Sept. 13, in Crotona Park.

Bronx families, community partners and community leaders were brought together for this event. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

The theme for this year’s event was “Thrusting Together: Immigration, Resilience and Success in 2025.” It highlighted the significant contributions African immigrants have made to the Bronx, while also celebrating their cultural, social and socioeconomic impact. The event featured community members and community partners enjoying music, cultural performances and food. There were also resource tables set up to provide assistance and information to attendees.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

“Our African Heritage Festival is an opportunity for Bronx residents and families to come together to celebrate the incredible contributions of African culture in our borough,” Gibson said. “I am grateful to our African Advisory Council for hosting this event with our office and for their 15 years of service uplifting our communities. Together, we are ensuring that the voices and traditions of African immigrants continue to thrive in the Bronx.”

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson was on hand to enjoy the event. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson
Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

Gibson was joined at the event by many other local elected officials, community leaders and members of the African Advisory Council of the Bronx, including Chair Sidiki Donzo.

African Advisory Council of the Bronx Chair Sidiki Donzo received a Citation of Merit from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

“The 15th anniversary of the African Advisory Council (AAC) of the Bronx Borough President’s office was held in conjunction with the African Heritage event this year. The event honored our rich heritage and reinforced our commitment to fostering greater togetherness among our communities. Our goal remains clear: to unite more people through shared culture,” Donzo said. “We are deeply grateful for every resource and support that contributed to the event’s success. Thanks to this collective effort, the AAC is stronger now than ever before and is poised to continue growing in influence and impact.”

Gibson and Donzo presented several community leaders with Citations of Merit and Commendations at the event. Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson

In addition to celebrating African heritage, the African Heritage Festival provides local residents with the opportunity to strengthen community ties while also highlighting resilience and achievement. The event reflects Gibson’s dedication to supporting and uplifting the diverse communities that inhabit the Bronx.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson