BOROUGH PRESIDENT GIBSON, THE BRONX ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION & BRONX TOURISM COUNCIL HOST BRONX WEEK 2025 PRESS CONFERENCE
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Bronx, NY – On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 5:00 PM, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson was joined by Bronx Economic Development Corporation President Rob Walsh, Bronx Tourism Council Director of Development Julius Drake, and sponsors at the Bronx Museum of the Arts to officially kick off Bronx Week 2025. The celebration began with the highly anticipated announcement of this year’s Bronx Walk of Fame inductees and the return of the People’s Choice Award—now in its third year—honoring a standout member of the Bronx community in media and the arts.
“Bronx Week is a time to celebrate everything that makes our borough extraordinary—our people, our culture, and our legacy. I am proud to kick off this year’s celebration at the Bronx Museum of the Arts, where we honor the achievements of our Walk of Fame inductees and the incredible community members who continue to make the Bronx shine. Our theme, “Strive and Thrive in `25,” represents the heart and spirit of our borough, and our commitment to making this year`s Bronx Week the best one yet! A special thank you to the Bronx Economic Development Corporation, the Bronx Tourism Council, and all of this year`s sponsors for their continued support,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.
“There’s no other borough in New York City that has a celebration like this that takes place over not one week, but several, recognizing everyone from seniors to veterans to entrepreneurs, and it allows us to tell the story of many people and places here in The Bronx. It’s a great tradition for The Bronx to put something like this together. This year, we have a number of exciting new additions, including our new app for The Bronx Walk of Fame, our BX Factor pitch contest, which will be bigger than ever, as well as our annual Bronx Ball,” said Rob Walsh, President of the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.
“The 53rd Annual Bronx Week is almost here! Join us as we “Strive and Thrive in ’25”, from May 5th through May 18th, we’re celebrating all things Bronx! Don’t miss the highlight event: the Bronx Ball on Saturday, May 17th, a night of style, music, and community pride. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners — your support means everything,” said Julius Drake, Director of Development, The Bronx Tourism Council.
This year’s Bronx Walk of Fame inductees are:
- Devon Rodriguez – Artist
- Kemba Walker – Professional Basketball Coach and Former Player
- Damian Priest – Professional Wrestler
- Judy Torres – Freestyle Music Icon and Dance-Pop Singer
- Gary Axelbank – Journalist, DJ, and TV Personality (People’s Choice Award Winner in Media and the Arts)
“Growing up in the Bronx shaped everything I am today. It taught me resilience, strength, and the power of hard work. This is where I learned to draw—drawing portraits on the 6 train, inspired by the people and energy around me. The Bronx didn’t just raise me; it gave me my vision,” said Devon Rodriguez.
“From the blacktops of the Bronx to the bright lights of the NBA, my journey is a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and never forgetting where you come from. I hope my story continues to inspire the next generation to rise,” said Kemba Walker.
“To say I am honored and grateful is an understatement. I truly feel privileged to be recognized by a borough, city, and state that I love. Thank you, New York,” said Damian Priest.
“To be from the Bronx means I’ve been equipped with all I need to succeed: grit, courage, resilience & the determination to see success!” said Judy Torres.
“For someone who has dedicated his career to presenting TV programs to the people of the Bronx for three decades, this is the most wonderful honor I could possibly be given. What makes it even more special is being the People’s Choice, because it’s the people of the Bronx who inspire me every day,” said Gary Axelbank.
Additionally, world-renowned DJ and record producer D-Nice will receive the Key to the Borough, joining a prestigious list of past recipients including John Sterling and MC Sha-Rock.
“From growing up in the Bronx to receiving the Key to the Borough — this moment is truly full circle. The Bronx shaped me, grounded me, and gave me the strength to dream beyond what I could see. To be honored by the place that raised me is something I hold with deep pride and gratitude. This key represents every lesson, every memory, and every part of my journey that started right here,” said Derrick “D-Nice” Jones.
The 2025 Bronx Tourism Awards were also announced and will be presented to organizations making a significant impact on Bronx tourism:
- The Bronx Music Heritage Center, which opened its doors late last year.
- The New York Yankees are projected to generate approximately $594 million from home games this season.
Now in its 53rd year, Bronx Week is a cherished tradition that celebrates the rich culture, history, and community spirit of the borough. The festivities will culminate on the weekend of May 18 with a lineup of hallmark events, including:
- The Bronx Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony
- The Bronx Ball
- The Bronx Week Parade
- The Food & Arts Festival
- The Bronx Week Concert
For the full schedule and more information, visit ilovethebronx.com.
Thursday, May 8, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Bronx Week Labor Breakfast (Not Open to the Public)
Celebrating the social and economic achievements of union workers throughout NYC. This event honors the strength and solidarity of labor unions.
Location: F&J Pine
1913 Bronxdale Avenue
Bronx, NY 10462
Phone: 718-792-5958
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Tennis Night with Dad
Includes tennis skills and drills followed by free play. Designed to strengthen father-child engagement and promote educational development.
Location: Cary Leeds Center for Tennis and Learning
1720 Crotona Avenue
Bronx, NY 10457
Phone: 718-247-7420
Friday, May 9, 2025
8:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
26th Annual Bronx Bankers Breakfast (Not Open to the Public)
Hosted by Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and the Business Initiative Corporation of New York. Features keynote speaker Adrienne Harris, NYS Superintendent of Financial Services.
Location: Villa Barone Manor
737 Throgs Neck Expressway
Bronx, NY 10465
Phone: 718-892-3500
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Annual Silent Disco
A free, family-friendly dance party with wireless headphones and multiple music channels.
Location: Woodlawn Cemetery/Conservancy
4199 Webster Avenue
Bronx, NY 10470
Phone: 718-920-0500
Saturday, May 10, 2025
9:30 a.m.
Bronx County at 111 Years – Free Historic Walking Tour
Led by Historian Angel Hernandez. Begins at the old Bronx Borough Courthouse and ends at the Bronx County Building. Approx. 2 hours.
Meeting Point: Corner of East 161st Street & 3rd Avenue
11:00 a.m.
Grand Concourse Walking Tour
A tour of the Grand Concourse with Urban Planner Sam Goodman. Limited to 20 participants. RSVP: [email protected]. Free; canceled in case of rain.
Meeting Point: Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse at East 166th Street
Monday, May 12, 2025
11:30 a.m.
Veterans’ Appreciation Luncheon
A celebration recognizing Bronx veterans and veteran advocacy organizations. Includes music and food.
Location: Eastwood Manor
3371 Eastchester Road
Bronx, NY 10469
Phone: 718-654-4200
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Bronx Courthouse Adaptive Reuse Project – CCNY Studio Awards
Student teams present redesign proposals for the historic former Bronx Courthouse.
Location: Bronx Borough Hall Rotunda
851 Grand Concourse
Bronx, NY 10451
Phone: 718-590-3514
4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
My Brother’s Keeper: Secure Your Financial Future
Chase Bank-led workshops on budgeting and credit. Includes resources for families.
Location: The Bronx Studio for Writers and Artists
928 Simpson Street
Bronx, NY 10459
Phone: 718-893-5158
Thursday, May 15, 2025
9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
The BX Factor – BronxNet Studios
Business pitch competition hosted by the Bronx EDC. $10,000 prize for winner. RSVP required.
Location: BronxNet Studios
441 Westchester Avenue (at 150th Street)
Bronx, NY 10455
Phone: 718-960-1180
11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Bronx Week Centenarian Celebration (Not Open to the Public)
Honoring community members aged 95+. RSVP: [email protected] or 718-590-3554. Free for honorees + one guest. $60 per additional guest.
Location: Villa Barone Manor
787 Throgs Neck Expressway
Bronx, NY 10465
Phone: 718-892-3500
Friday, May 16, 2025
12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
The Innovative Resource Fair – PS/MS 20
Access free resources including education, healthcare, food, and employment services.
Location: 3350 Webster Avenue
Bronx, NY 10467
Phone: 718-515-9370
Saturday, May 17, 2025
9:30 a.m.
Bronx Walk of Fame Induction Ceremony (Invite Only)
Recognizing 2025 inductees and unveiling their signs on the Grand Concourse.
Location: Bronx Borough Hall
851 Grand Concourse
Bronx, NY 10451
Phone: 718-590-3541
11:00 a.m.
Annual Marble Hill Annexation – Free Walking Tour
A Bronx Week tradition exploring the historical boundary of Marble Hill.
Meeting Point: The Bronx Public
170 West 231st Street
Bronx, NY 10463 (off the 1 Train)
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
African Nations Soccer Tournament – Final Match
The final game of a month-long tournament, held during Bronx Week.
Location: Macombs Dam Park
East 157th Street & West 161st Street
Bronx, NY 10451
Phone: 212-639-9675
6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
53rd Annual Bronx Ball
A black-tie gala honoring Walk of Fame inductees, the People’s Choice winner, and Key to the Borough recipient. Tickets: ilovethebronx.com
Location: Hutchinson Metro Center
1720 Eastchester Road
Bronx, NY
Phone: 718-409-5454
Sunday, May 18, 2025
10:00 a.m.
The Bronx Parade
Featuring schools, marching bands, dance teams, and community groups. Application required.
Location: Mosholu Parkway East between Hull Avenue and Van Cortlandt Park East
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Bronx Food & Arts Festival
Open-air celebration of Bronx food, art, and culture. Vendors selling food must obtain a Temporary Food Service Establishment permit.
For details: [email protected]
Location: Mosholu Parkway East between Hull Avenue and Van Cortlandt Park East
12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Bronx Week Concert
Cap off Bronx Week with a free concert following the parade.
Location: Mosholu Parkway & Bainbridge Avenue