Brooklyn in the summer is such a special time of year. If you’re looking for things to do in New York City, there’s a weekly block party in Bed-Stuy that I absolutely love.
You may hear it referred to as “TAMAfest,” or even “That epic Bed-Stuy Block Party on Tompkins,” the incredible Tompkins Avenue Open Streets first launched in April 2020 during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, to help residents and small businesses reclaim and repurpose city streets for alternative uses. The 2021 Tompkins Avenue Open Streets received one of the inaugural “Alfresco Awards”—a jointly-appointed accolade from the Design Trust for Public Space, Regional Plan Association, and the Tri-State Transportation Campaign which honors NYC’s best Open Streets set-ups. The event was also recently named one of the top ten Open Streets to attend in 2022.
When I want to have a leisurely Sunday funday in Brooklyn, this block party is at the top of my list. I can easily spend the whole day here. Here’s your guide to the Bed Stuy Block Party on Tompkins.
What time does the Bed Stuy Block Party Start?
According to BKReader, the party runs from 12pm-7pm on Sundays. But all of my neighborhood friends say that the party doesn’t really start popping until around 4pm. I personally love a slow summer morning, so I typically grab my newspaper and find a restaurant for brunch in the neighborhood.
Where to Eat Near the Bed Stuy Block Party
There are quite a few restaurants, deli’s and food vendors in the area, but my personal favorite is peaches hothouse on 415 Tompkins. If you’re a morning person like me, you can arrive as early as 11am for brunch. Peaches Hothouse sits in a perfect spot for people watching on Tomkins with indoor and outdoor seating. Eating al fresco under on of their shady umbrellas with a paper and a glass of sauvignon blanc is a great way relax and have a slow Sunday brunch while the neighborhood wakes up and prepares for the block party. I enjoyed the kale caesar, catfish and cheesy grits.
Plus Size Summer Outfit Ideas
For reference, I’m 5’10 I wear a size 18 bottom, size 14 top and a size 11w shoe.
If you’re looking for a chic outfit for a summer adventure in New York City, I recommend a simple black dress and cute comfortable shoes. A black sundress is an easy breezy option that will keep you cool and hide any perspiration. This sundress will show off your décolletage and glowing summer skin with a flattering sweetheart neckline and adjustable delicate straps.
Buy It! POPLIN MIDI DRESS– Zara, $49.90; zara.com
Related: My Strapless Bra & Shapewear Guide
Cute Comfortable Shoes
This lofted wedge sandal will quickly become your soft, supportive and summery go-to. I typically wear a size 11W shoe, but I bought these in a size 11 and I have worn them comfortably for outdoor concerts and a few casual strolls through Brooklyn. I recently bought a second pair in blue.
Buy It! Caslon Massif Sandal, $31.97 (orig. $59.95); NordstromRack.com
One of my favorite songs is Brooklyn in the Summer by Aloe Blacc. Today I definite caught that “Brooklyn in the summer” feeling.
Thank you for reading, I hope you found this guide to be helpful. You may also enjoy my summer in the hamptons guide
CeCe xx
