Roberto Clemente Plaza sits at the Hub, the busiest commercial crossroads in the Bronx, which makes staging a spelling bee there a genuinely bold choice — the audience is whoever is passing through. Student competitors work through rounds in the open air with a real crowd behind them. If you want to see a borough celebrating its kids in public rather than in a school auditorium, this is a great watch.
What to expect
Expect a staged competition area in the plaza with a microphone, judges and rounds of student spellers, plus an audience of families and passers-by. It runs across the middle of the day. The Hub's shops and food are immediately around the plaza.
Good to know
- Take the 2/5 to Third Ave–149th St; Roberto Clemente Plaza is at the station exit.
- Free and open in a public plaza — no ticket needed.
- Bring sun cover; the plaza has limited shade.
- Spectators are welcome; it is a public competition rather than a closed school event.
- The Hub's shops and food carts are steps away.
- Flat, paved and fully step-free.
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Common questions
Where is Roberto Clemente Plaza?
At the Hub, the retail crossroads at Third Avenue and 149th Street in the South Bronx.
Can anyone watch?
Yes — it takes place in an open public plaza and spectators are welcome.
Is there a cost?
No, it is a free public event.
More this weekend
