A vibrant day of culture, tradition, and community at Seth Low Park, where the Albanian-American diaspora gathered to honor their roots, strengthen connections, and create a legacy of pride for future generations.
For the first time, Brooklyn’s Seth Low Park became a vibrant celebration of Albanian-American pride, thanks to a collaborative effort led by the Albanian Roots association, represented by Marko Kepi and Nik Beqi and by Votra Inc., Aferdita Delaj.
This historic event brought together people of all ages and backgrounds to honor their heritage and celebrate their shared identity in a day that will be remembered for years to come.
From early morning, the park buzzed with excitement as families, friends, and elders, who are typically found at the park’s tables playing cards, chess, and dominoes, joined in the festivities.
A sea of red and black Albanian flags, interspersed with American stars and stripes, gave the park a uniquely festive look, highlighting the harmonious blend of the two cultures. The flags fluttered side-by-side, draped across trees and proudly held by children, transforming the park into a visual celebration of both nations’ identities.
The NYPD was present, keeping everything in order and showing support for the community by happily posing for pictures.
The day officially began with a long table that was soon overflowing with traditional Albanian dishes—byrek, fli, petulla të fshira, sheqerpare, revani, and a variety of homemade cookies—lovingly prepared by the hardworking women of the neighborhood. The rich aromas and vibrant colors of the food were more than just a culinary display; they represented a shared history and the deep-rooted hospitality of the Albanian people.
Torre’s Italian Restaurant & Pizza, brought free pizza for all the children.
Music, courtesy of DJ Albani, filled the air, and the sweet voice of singer Elsida Sinaj brought the community together in song and dance. Albanians from Kosovo, Macedonia, and across the Albanian regions joined in a harmonious celebration, dancing to traditional tunes and creating a lively atmosphere.
A red carpet, specially laid out for the young boys and girls dressed in traditional costumes, became the highlight of the event. The children paraded with pride, reminding everyone of the deep cultural roots that connect the diaspora to their homeland and symbolizing the hope for future generations.
Sports played a key role in the celebration, with soccer games organized by Bujar Gjata and basketball tournaments adding a competitive spirit. The Albanian Consul, Najada Sojli, addressed the crowd, praising the strength and unity of the community. Adding to the event’s significance, journalist Beqir Sinaj, a long-time supporter and documenter of the Albanian diaspora, was present to capture the essence of this historic moment.
This festival in Seth Low Park was more than just an event—it was a groundbreaking moment for the Albanian-American community in Brooklyn. It represented a symbolic space where the rich heritage of Albania was celebrated, and the bonds between generations were strengthened. It showcased how traditions, language, and culture can thrive even thousands of miles away from their homeland.
Events like this are essential for diaspora communities, as they preserve language and traditions while strengthening the unique cultural identity of Albanians living abroad. These gatherings foster a sense of belonging, especially for younger generations who might feel distanced from their roots. Festivals like this one create opportunities for shared experiences, allowing the community to come together, not just to celebrate but to reaffirm their connection to their homeland.
The contrast and harmony of the red and black Albanian flags beside the American flags highlighted the beauty of cultural integration. The vibrant colors fluttering in the wind gave the festival a distinctly festive and patriotic atmosphere.
From traditional songs to heartfelt speeches, the festival was a resounding success, uniting the community and leaving a lasting impression that will resonate for years to come.
As the day came to a close, the park, now filled with memories of laughter, dance, and togetherness, stood as a testament to the resilience and pride of the Albanian-American community. It was a reminder that no matter where Albanians may find themselves, their spirit, traditions, and unity will always remain strong and celebrated.