Harlem Week Returns With A Celebration Of Community And Culture

For its 51st year, Harlem Week is set to return from August 1 to 17, bringing more than two weeks of live and virtual events to celebrate the neighborhood’s vibrant culture and history. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Our Magic,” is a tribute to Harlem’s lasting impact on the world and aims to provide a sense of positivity and inspiration for the community and beyond.

“Our rich history and culture is just that, magic,” said Lloyd Williams, co-founder and chairman of Harlem Week. “From the cultural revival that was the Harlem Renaissance to institutions like the Apollo Theater and the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, this year’s theme embodies that despite challenges we may face, our creativity and our joy are magic.” 

The celebration, which began as a single-day event in 1974 to help uplift the community during a period of economic hardship in New York City, has grown into a major annual festival. It has been called the “Beginning of the Second Harlem Renaissance” by actor, producer, and Harlem Day co-founder Ossie Davis.

In a continued effort to support economic growth, the annual NYC Jobs and Careers Fair will take place on August 13 at The City College of New York. The event will feature career development workshops and over 40 employers from various sectors, including banking, city services, health, and transportation.

HARLEM WEEK offers a diverse schedule with activities for all ages. Children can participate in events like the virtual Hack-a-Thon and Youth Conference, the Alex Trebek Harlem Children’s Spelling Bee, and the NY City Children’s Festival, featuring storytelling, performances, and games.

On August 14, the Black Health Matters/Harlem Week Summit and Expo will focus on “Where Health Meets Heritage.” The event at The Riverside Church will feature discussions, free health screenings, and prizes, providing valuable resources for physical and emotional wellness.

The festival will also include a range of popular marquee events, such as:

• Summer Streets Celebrating Harlem Week (August 2, 9, 16): A block party with biking, skating, live music, and more.
• Climate Change Conference (August 6): A discussion on the disproportionate effects of climate change on communities of color.
• Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run & Children’s Run (August 9): An iconic race attracting runners from across the country.
• Great Jazz on the Great Hill (August 9): A celebration of jazz music in Central Park.

The festivities will culminate with Harlem Day on August 17, the largest and final day of the celebration. It will feature three stages of entertainment, the Harlem Health Village, food vendors, arts and crafts, and performances from local, national, and international artists spanning various musical genres. More events can be found on http://www.harlemweek.com/.