Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson partnered with GO! Sports NYC, NYCHA Bronx River Houses and the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development to host the “Homage to Skate Key” skate party on Saturday, May 2, at the Bronx River House Community Center.
Marking the start of Bronx Week 2026, the event brought together Bronx residents, families and community leaders for an evening centered on movement, music and community connection. The space fostered physical activity, social connection and shared experiences with family and neighbors.
The skate party was held in tribute to the Skate Key Skating rink, a historic cornerstone of the borough that closed in 2006. Its legacy was reimagined through the lens of wellness and togetherness, with attendees of all ages taking to the rink while enjoying music and recreation.
The Homage to Skate Key event underscored the importance of supporting local community spaces that serve as hubs for recreation, wellness and community engagement, reflecting the theme of Bronx Week 2026, “The Bronx Leads.”
In addition to celebrating Bronx culture, the event served as a reminder of a need to continue creating accessible environments in the borough where residents can stay active and connected.
“Bronx Week events like our Skate Party remind us how important it is to create spaces where our families and neighbors can come together and stay active,” Gibson said.
“This homage to Skate Key is not only about honoring a special place in our borough’s history, but also about continuing to support community-centered spaces like Bronx River Houses Community Center that support health, well-being and connection. Thank you to everyone who joined us as we kicked off Bronx Week 2026 and celebrated the energy that makes our borough so special.”
Bronx Week, now in its 54th year, is a borough-wide celebration featuring a variety of events throughout the week, culminating in the Bronx Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony, the Bronx Ball, a parade, a festival and a concert on Sunday, May 17. A full list of Bronx Week events can be found on ilovethebronx.com.
