The Far Rockaway community will gather Saturday to honor the life and legacy of rapper Lionel “Chinx” Pickens with a street co-naming ceremony and a back-to-school block party celebrating local families and children.
The Lionel “Chinx” Pickens Street Co-Naming & Back to School Block Party will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Sept. 5 on Oceancrest Boulevard, between Dickens Street and Bay 25th Street in Far Rockaway, Queens. The event is free and open to the public.
Organized by the Lionel D. Pickens Foundation, the celebration will recognize Pickens’ connection to Far Rockaway while giving back to the community that helped shape him.
The event will include live music from DJ Amazin and guest DJs, along with special appearances by French Montana and Max B. Families can also enjoy free food, popcorn, cotton candy, bounce houses, and games.
A back-to-school giveaway will provide free book bags and school supplies to local children while supplies last.
Organizers said the event is intended to celebrate Pickens’ legacy while investing in the next generation of Far Rockaway youth through a day centered on family, music, resilience, and community.
The Lionel D. Pickens Foundation was established to continue the spirit of giving and community involvement associated with Pickens. The organization supports children, families, and communities through initiatives focused on empowerment, opportunity, and charitable giving.
Pickens, known professionally as Chinx, was a Far Rockaway native who built a following in hip-hop and was closely associated with French Montana and the Coke Boys music collective.
Exclusive Chinx legacy merchandise is available through ChinxOfficial.com. Those unable to attend the event can support the foundation’s work through donations at TLDPF.org.
