Albanian culture and history to take center stage at Bronx street fair

A celebration of Albanian culture, history and heritage will return to Bronx Little Italy on Sunday, May 4, as the 4th Annual Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu Street Fair takes place at the corner of Crescent Avenue and Arthur Avenue from noon to 6 p.m.

The free, family-friendly event is hosted by the Albanian American Open Hand Association Inc. (AAOHA) in partnership with the Belmont Business Improvement District. It highlights Albania’s cultural legacy and its deep historical ties to Italy and the Bronx.

Visitors can enjoy an afternoon of traditional foods, live music, folk dancing, cultural performances, games and children’s activities.

The fair is named after Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu, a 15th-century military commander who famously resisted the Ottoman Empire and built alliances with Italian states. After his death, many Albanians fled to Italy, where their descendants—the Arberesh—have preserved Albanian language and customs for generations.

The event also celebrates the lasting impact of Albanian-Americans in the Belmont neighborhood, where they have long lived, shopped, and operated businesses. Local establishments include Prince Coffee House, Noya Café, Roots Coffee & Wine, No Fork, and Dea – An Authentic Eatery.

Organizers say the street fair offers a meaningful opportunity to honor the contributions of both the Albanian and Italian communities in the Bronx.