The Bronx Fireworks Extravaganza is an event that Bronxites look forward to year after year, and 2024 was no exception.
On Thursday, June 27, Orchard Beach was filled with people excited to celebrate the official start to the summer season with food, entertainment and, of course, fireworks.
Part of the success of this event can be attributed to those who attend every year. Another part of the success can be attributed to the collaboration between big donors and small businesses. This year, the sponsors of the event included government officials, corporations and more. Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and The Bronx Tourism Council, plus its sister organizations (the BXEDC and BICNY) worked to coordinate the event. ConEdison, Montefiore Einstein, Cricket Wireless, Housing Solutions of New York, Senator Nathalia Fernandez, Assemblyman Benedetto, Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato, the New York City Parks Department, the New York Fire Department and the New York Police Department all contributed to the events creation, either through donation or coordination. From there, smaller businesses and local favorites were able to get involved.
Bronx-based events company e218 Events planned the program, and the Orchard Beach concession stand catered the VIP area. Before the program started, yoga teacher Dee Davis of Pearl Movement Studio led the crowd in a short yoga session that included breathing exercises, a skill that may come in handy during a high energy event like a fireworks show. Finally, entertainment was provided by DJ Ralphie Mercado and the band Uptown Royalty.
When there are opportunities to offer an event for all ages in the community, the key component is having organizations and people within that community who will help make it happen. By partnering with larger (yet recognizable) companies, the Bronx
Borough President and Bronx Tourism Council had the opportunity to put more eyes on the small businesses that add a unique charm to not only the event, but the borough as a whole.
Jilleen Barrett is director of communications and marketing at the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.
