Things to Do in Harlem, New York

Looking for Opportunities to Explore African Culture and Heritage in one of the most historic and museum-filled cities in the world?
Cultural growth in one of the cities most prolific boroughs still continues from the days of the Harlem Renaissance. There are countless opportunities in this busy city to explore African history and culture. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most enriching and diverse opportunities Harlem (and some other areas) has to offer:

New York African Restaurant Week

Feeling the inspiration to plan your visit to NYC? Time it out perfectly with New York African Restaurant Week (Oct 1-22, 2017) for a true “Celebration of Cuisine & Culture!”

Check back on Demand Africa for updates on NYARW and many of your favorite African Restaurants & Events!

Malian Cultural Center

The Malian Cultural Center seeks to continue the traditions of the rich Malian Heritage in Harlem: They offer Free French Classes for Local Children every Saturday but also many cultural events throughout the year including festivals and concerts in major NYC parks as well as collaborations with the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Visit Tribute Sites

Care to visit a beautiful tribute and reminder of true strength and resilience?
 Pay Tribute to the thousands of African Ancestors in Foley Square, the Medallions in Thomas Paine Park and/or the “Triumph of the Human Spirit” sculpture based on Antelope forms of Bambaran art.

The Hall of African Peoples in The Museum of Natural History

Traveling Outside of Harlem? Of course it’s a major tourist spot but The Hall of African Peoples in The Museum of Natural History is one of the most immersive and impressive exhibits in the city.

Take a Guided Tour

New to Harlem? For around $25 per person, let a licensed tour guide take you through some of the beautiful architecture and history of the Harlem Renaissance and The Civil Rights Movement with a special visit to the African Market- Little Senegal!

Check Out Local Art Installations

African Art and Culture is everywhere in the City. Several NYC-based artists have periodic installations. Always check before you come to learn about art installations throughout Manhattan and the outer boroughs. Here are a couple of examples:

•In 2014 at the Grand Central Terminal 100th Anniversary, Artist Nick Cave debuted several of his prolific “Soundsuits” based somewhat on the Ceremonial Costumes of the Barawa “Dodo dancer” from Nigeria; with heavy influences from Dogon Culture and/or African ceremonial costumes. These colorful, rich costumes have been featured in many popular modern art exhibits in the city lately.

The imba yokubikira, or ‘kitchen house’ installation in Marcus Garvey Park by Simone Leigh is a great opportunity to remember early life in Zimbabwe.

The Studio Museum

Want to get lucky enough to catch one of these incredible exhibits while they’re here? A great place to always check for new Culturally enriching exhibits & art is the Studio Museum programming site. You can find tons of information about upcoming exhibits & events here. Sponsors of Simone Leigh’s imba yokubikira installation, Studio Museum is known for incredible & Culturally profound, modern programming.

Bring the little ones for family-fun Target Free Sundays: immersive & arts interactive activities as well as events & concerts geared towards curating an evening of fun, culture & learning.

African Chorus Ensemble

Catch an African Chorus Ensemble Performance. The African Chorus Ensemble performs year- round at Cultural events, festivals & featured performances. You can also time your trip with their ever-popular annual hosted festival to promote cultural unity amongst New Yorkers. Check it out here!

The Africa Center

Finally, Check out this amazing Fly-through video of The Africa Center, or the African Art Museum in Harlem, & make sure you stop by. The Museum is right next to Central Park!