The African American Parade

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The African American Day Parade, held every September, stands as one of the largest and most renowned parades honoring Black culture in the U.S. It stretches along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard (7th Ave) between West 110th Street and West 136th Street in Harlem, drawing participants and spectators from at least a dozen states.

Founded during the Civil Rights Movement in 1968, the parade’s mission is to “inspire a world where African Americans proclaim independence within our communities in the areas of business, education, health, arts/culture & politics/government”

This year marks the 56th Annual African American Day Parade, unfolding over the weekend of Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21, 2025.

• Saturday, Sept. 20 kicks off with a “Get Involved” Community Celebration—a lively cultural, health, and literacy initiative in the State Office Building Plaza (125th & 7th Avenue)
• Sunday, Sept. 21, the main parade steps off at 12:30 p.m., starting from 111th Street and traveling along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd to 136th Street

A Rich Tapestry of Participation

The march brings together a wide array of community groups and civic organizations—including One Hundred Black Men, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, NAACP, National Society of Black Engineers, religious institutions, sororities and fraternities, healthcare providers, veterans’ associations, and more.

Spectator turnout is enormous—upward of 900,000 individuals have historically lined the route to witness the pageantry, performances, and festivity up close.

Why This Parade Matters

More than a marching procession, the parade is a powerful display of pride, achievement, and visibility for the African American community. Its deeply rooted history and modern-day energy—combined with civic engagement and cultural expression—make it a resonant event for all who participate or observe.

In Summary

The African American Day Parade in Harlem is a moving tribute to Black culture’s past, present, and future—a weekend filled with community connection, inspiration, and celebration. Whether you’re marching or watching, it’s a momentous event you won’t want to miss.