09/18/2026
🎉 The African American Day Parade is this Sunday, September 20, in Harlem!
The parade was founded in 1968, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement and just months after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Harlem community leaders saw a need for positive representation and created a platform to bring Black communities together to celebrate African American heritage, talents and accomplishments while honoring those who came before us.
The first African American Day Parade took place in Harlem on September 21, 1969, under the theme “Africa’s Gift to America.” More than five decades later, the tradition continues along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard, celebrating Black culture, history and community.
This year’s theme: “Good Businesses Sustain Our Future.”
📚 Saturday, Sept. 19 | 12PM–5PM
AADP’s 4th Annual Get Involved Community, Literacy, Health & Culture Celebration
📍 Plaza of Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building
163 W. 125th St.
🎺 Sunday, Sept. 20 | 12:30PM–6PM
The 57th Annual African American Day Parade
📍 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd (7th Ave), 111th–138th St.
🎶 11AM: Pre-Parade Show at 125th St.
Come celebrate culture, community, literacy, health and Black excellence in the heart of Harlem! ✨
