STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Music, art, culture and community.
All four were celebrated Saturday at the annual Summer Solstice Block Party hosted by Richmond Hood Co. in West Brighton.
The event transformed Castleton Avenue, between Davis and Pelton avenues, into a vibrant festival of sights and sounds. From DJs blaring music and games, to an array of food options, the event was action-packed. It was clear this was more than just a party — it was a celebration of local culture.
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
The event offered a family-friendly atmosphere with children learning how to skate, teens filming each other’s runs, and parents cheering them on. There were crafts for children, and ice cream sponsored by Councilmember Kamillah Hanks’ office.
Additionally, rapper Redman, a co-owner of Richmond Hood Co., made an appearance in a ticketed area for a meet-and-greet with fans.
“We have people traveling from Chicago and Virginia to come for that,” said Tariq Zaid, co-owner of Richmond Hood Co.
Someone online for the meet-and-greet told the Advance/SILive.com that they came all the way from Germany.
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Pressure Paint NYC was also on-site, offering art exhibitions for guests to explore. Richmond Hood Co. ensured that neighboring businesses were included in the festivities, creating a true community-focused experience.
“There’s plenty of art today, where we encourage people to create something,” said Zaid. “That’s the vibe we are giving today. Music, art and culture.”
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Zaid noted that Richmond Hood Co. has a long history of hosting community events, dating back to when the business was located on Van Duzer Street.
“It’s not our first rodeo,” he added.
The day also coincided with Go Skateboarding Day, inviting both novice and experienced skaters to take part in open skating, community lessons and challenges, all hosted in partnership with Skate to Elevate.
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Additionally, Community Activate, working closely with Richmond Hood Co., held a session at Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church featuring meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and ear acupuncture.
The overarching goal of the day was to infuse positive energy into the West Brighton community.
“We hope people not only enjoy themselves, but create art and enjoy others’ art, make friends, and network,” Zaid said.
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas
Richmond Hood Company held their annual block party celebrating the summer solstice (Kayla Simas / Staten Island Advance).Kayla Simas