The inaugural Harlem Festival of Culture [HFC] is set to make waves with an impressive lineup of performers, including Teyana Taylor, Coco Jones, Muni Long, and many more. Taking place from July 28 to July 30 at Randall’s Island in New York, the festival will showcase a diverse array of artists and entertainers, offering attendees a memorable experience.
Joining the star-studded lineup are renowned acts such as Bell Biv DeVoe, Fat Joe, Cam’ron, Doug E. Fresh, and Adam Blackstone. The festival will also feature performances from Eric Bellinger, Jozzy, MAJOR., Ma$e, Remy Ma, Ro James, Tink, and Wyclef Jean, with MC Lyte taking on the role of host for the Harlem Festival of Culture.
Beyond the exciting musical performances, the festival aims to create a complete cultural experience for attendees. Interactive art installations will be featured, allowing visitors to engage with and appreciate various artistic expressions. The food court will showcase eateries representing the rich culinary heritage of Harlem, and a Mart 125 pop-up sponsored by SheaMoisture will pay homage to the renowned marketplace that once thrived on 125th Street.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Dancehall LinkUp curated by Estelle, featuring Sister Nancy, Nadine Sutherland, Wayne Wonder, Lumidee, Rupee, Serani, and Mr. Killa. In collaboration with Harlem’s iconic Apollo Theater, the festival will also host a series of intimate concert events at the historic venue, further adding to the richness of the cultural celebration.
Harlem Festival Lead By Mike Bivins
The Harlem Festival of Culture has been spearheaded by Mike Bivins, a member of Bell Biv DeVoe and creative director of the festival. Bivins expressed his deep connection to Harlem and his desire to create an event that resonates with the community. He stated, “I’m so proud to be part of the inaugural Harlem Festival of Culture. As an artist who has spent a lot of time in Harlem and supported the local businesses in the neighborhood for many years, I’m excited to see this unique event come to life.”
The festival announcement follows after HFC headliner Muni Long performed an unreleased version of “Hrs & Hrs” with Usher on his Lovers and Friends tour. Meanwhile, Teyana Taylor, who is “retired” and now the show creative director for rappers Latto and Summer Walker, was seen jamming in the audience.
In a related music festival update, the Governor’s Ball has also unveiled its lineup for the annual 2023 festival. Kendrick Lamar, Lizzo, Lil Baby, and other prominent artists are set to headline the highly-anticipated pre-summer event, adding to the excitement and diversity of music festivals happening throughout the year.