Uniquely NYC
African American Day Parade
The African-American Day Parade is held in late September in Harlem. It
was founded in the spring of 1968, and Harlem was chosen as the venue
due to its large representation of African-American people. Established
as an independent organization, the parade does not accept contributions
and is based on volunteerism. Its route spans across 111th Street and
Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard, proceeding to 142nd Street and then
turning right to Fifth Avenue.
The first Parade was marched in September 1969, and its Grand Marshall
was Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr.
The African-American Parade is a huge multi-colored event with
everything in it: richly adorned floats, incredible costumes, dazzling
dancers and variety of music from soca to reggae, ragga and soul.
The purpose of the parade is to provide an opportunity for
African-American people to join together on a special day to celebrate
their history and achievements. The Parade provides place for
organizations, dignitaries, celebrities, community leaders and bands. It
is recognized as a national parade with representatives and
organizations from 12 states. In 2009, the parade had a record
attendance of nearly 1 million viewers.
Some of the famous Grand Marshalls of the past Parades include: Denzel
Washington, Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr., Mayor David Dinkins,
and Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm. Musical celebrities also regularly
participate in the parade.