HARLEM WEEK gives one full block of West 135th Street over to kids, and the programming is the good kind of old-fashioned: storytelling, arts and crafts tables, face painting and actual double dutch competitions with actual ropes and actual crowds counting. It sits directly between the Schomburg Center and the Summer In The City stage, so a family can move between all three in an afternoon. If you are bringing children to any one HARLEM WEEK event, this is the one built for them.
What to expect
A closed street lined with activity tables and small performance areas, with programming rotating through the afternoon rather than running on a single stage. Expect crafts, storytellers, face painters and the double dutch competition drawing the biggest ring of spectators. It is stroller-navigable, though the middle of the block gets busy.
Good to know
- The 2 and 3 to 135th Street exit within a block of the festival
- Strollers work but are easier along the curb than down the center of the block
- Bring water and hats - the block has little shade
- The Schomburg Center is on the same stretch if you need an air-conditioned break
- Activity supplies at craft tables run out, so earlier is better for hands-on stations
- Restrooms are limited; the Schomburg and nearby businesses are the fallback
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Common questions
What ages is it for?
It is aimed at children and families, with crafts, storytelling and games suited to roughly toddler through pre-teen.
Do I need to register?
No. It is a free open street festival with no registration.
Is it near other HARLEM WEEK events?
Yes - Summer In The City and the Schomburg Center spelling bee run on the same stretch of 135th Street.
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