A ‘Great Day In Harlem’ returns to HARLEM WEEK as the tradition continues
HARLEM WEEK is set to host its outdoor opening event, ‘A Great Day In Harlem,’ Aug. 9, at the Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial Plaza. The post A ‘Great Day In Harlem’ returns to HARLEM WEEK as the tradition continues appeared first on New York Amsterdam News.
Black News 
As Upper Manhattan prepares for one of summer’s most anticipated cultural gatherings, HARLEM WEEK is set to host its outdoor opening event, ‘A Great Day In Harlem,’ Sunday, Aug. 9, at the Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial Plaza from 12- 7 p.m. What began over five decades ago as a single-day rally to bring the Harlem community together, is now an annual tradition featuring a festival celebrating the heritage, arts, and economic vitality of Harlem.
The festival’s significance is rooted in family and community history. L. Adé Williams, first vice chair of HARLEM WEEK, continues the mission set forth by his late father, Lloyd Williams, a visionary civic leader and co-founder of HARLEM WEEK. The elder Williams helped launch the first official event in the mid-1970s to help uplift the neighborhood spiritually and economically during a time of hardship, Williams said. “HARLEM WEEK is a celebration not only of our local community, but of what Harlem gives to the world,” added Williams. “Harlem is great not only because of its geography, but because what people see us accomplish here inspires everyone across the globe. This is our time to share our work.”
Sunday’s free public festival will feature a wide range of music, vendors, and community programming, starting with The International Village, where a dozen businesses and artisans offer quality international cuisine, handcrafted goods, and local fashion. Onstage, the event will feature gospel and legacy tributes honoring figures such as gospel legend Richard Smallwood and soul titan Peabo Bryson.
Musical direction led by Harlem’s own Ray Chew from “Dancing with the Stars” will bring together household names, up-and-coming artists, and regional jazz and R&B performers. The day will include the movie screening of “Zootopia” for children at the East River Plaza at 4:30 p.m. and activities from 12-4 p.m. RSVP is required.
Beyond the mainstage entertainment, organizers stress that the festival aims to provide resources, equity and opportunity. The event is not only free but accessible. And for those who cannot attend events in person can watch events on the HARLEM WEEK website, where every event will be livestreamed. This year, the festival celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, while placing a direct spotlight on Harlem’s foundational role in shaping American history, music, and civil rights and “elevating it,” Williams added.
“As we look forward to incredible entertainment, a warm sense of reunion, and the continued renewal of Harlem, we remain deeply committed to addressing the real, serious issues facing our community today. HARLEM WEEK isn’t just about celebrating where we’ve been; it’s about informing, empowering, and building where we go next.”
For more HARLEM WEEK events from now through August 16, feel free to check out their website at www.harlemweek.org.
The post A ‘Great Day In Harlem’ returns to HARLEM WEEK as the tradition continues appeared first on New York Amsterdam News.
