Holiday Lights Parade To Dazzle Harlem On Tuesday

HARLEM, NY – Ballet dancer Misty Copeland is Grand Marshal of the 31st annual Harlem Holiday Lights, New York City’s only holiday lights parade, which winds its way through Harlem on Tuesday, Nov. 19.

Starting at 6 p.m. at 125th Street and Broadway and traversing the neighborhood along a route lined with sparkling light streamers, the free, family-friendly event will feature 20 illuminated floats and more than 40 viewing areas to accommodate the thousands of neighbors and visitors who attend the parade each year.

“Harlem truly has a unique, arts-focused culture, and it’s filled with an indescribable energy when it’s lit up,” organizers say. “We’re thrilled to share the excitement with you.”

This year’s theme, “Dance! Harlem’s Heartbeat,” honors Harlem’s rich dance history, spanning generations. Aside from Grand Marshal Copeland, Tony Award-winning choreographer George Faison will be recognized.

Activities along the route abound and the parade fully integrates local businesses and cultural sites, where attendees can enjoy musical and dance performances, holiday giveaways, and special promotions.

It’s all organized by the 125th Street Business Improvement District (BID), with sponsors including the Apollo Theater, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, and Columbia University.

“For more than 30 years, Harlem Holiday Lights has evolved into a community-wide holiday celebration representing the historical and cultural flavors of our neighborhood and draws thousands of visitors from all over the region,” said Barbara Askins, who leads the 125th Street BID. “We look forward to such a warm and uplifting start to the holiday season to celebrate this year’s theme of 'Dance! Harlem’s Heartbeat' and the vibrancy of Harlem.”

Should inclement weather strike, the parade will be postponed to Nov. 26.

More information is available here.