Photos: Brighton Jubilee 2011 Draws Thousands

Last month’s much-hyped Hurricane Irene became a blessing in disguise for the Brighton Neighborhood Association.

As the Category 1 hurricane-turned-tropical-storm forced the postponement of the group’s annual Brighton Jubilee, fair-goers were finally able to enjoy the festivities – which just celebrated its 35th year – this past weekend in a temperate climate, a welcome respite from last month’s oppressive mid-August heat.

And, boy, did the crowd come out. A steady flow of people moved through the event throughout the day, totaling more than 100,000 attendees according to a police estimate given to the BNA.

“I am thrilled with the number of people who attended,” said Pat Singer, executive director of the BNA. “I am equally thrilled with the number of calls from people expressing their joy that the Jubilee was back.  It took a small army to put this on and I am grateful.”

The event had vendors of crafts, tchochkies, used goods and other items lining Brighton Beach Avenue between Coney Island Avenue and Corbin Place. Interspersed among them were kiddie rides and amusements, live entertainment and food stands.

The Brighton Jubilee is the annual fundraiser for the Brighton Neighborhood Association, a non-profit tenant advocacy organization that’s been struggling amidst budget cuts citywide. This year’s event brought in $30,000 before expenses, providing the lifeblood they need to continue on through the year.

“We’ve been living off this money all along,” Singer said. “I just go jubilee to jubilee to keep it working.”