If you’re looking for an incredibly authentic and immersive cultural experience, block off your calendar for July 16th. The Go Africa Carnival is coming to New York City, and it’s going to be an amazing festival this year. The Go Africa Network, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the development, education, and cultural initiatives for Africa, the Caribbean, and the U.S., is proud to invite guests to this heritage-based event. It’s a celebration of the African and Caribbean cultures, complete with live music, native fare, and unique goods. Here’s what you can expect for this year’s festivities.
A Celebration of Diversity
The Go Africa Carnival is a celebration of diversity, bringing merchants, displays, music, and culture to New York City. Additionally, there will be stages featuring live performances. There will be dance, art, and native attire on full display, promoting the rich history and deep roots of African and Caribbean culture. Also, participating and supporting these performers and vendors, are various African community groups, embassies, and consulates from across New York City’s five boroughs and beyond.
In addition to all the heritage festivities, the organization is planning to also honor and recognize distinguished individuals from the community. These inspirational leaders have and continue to serve and promote the African and African American communities. Here are just a few of those who will be honored throughout the day.
- The Honorable Dr. Michael A. Walrond Jr., Senior Pastor, First Corinthian Baptist Church
- The Honorable Assemblywoman Inez Dickens, Assembly District 70, and African Advisory Council of the Bronx Borough President
- Mayor, Eric Adams
Featured Musical Guests
Adding to all the fun, food, merchants, and traditional unique goods you can explore, New Yorkers will absolutely love the music lineup. This year, there will be multiple stages featuring inspirational voices and sounds. Some of this year’s performers include amazing talent, including Sekouba Bolomba, Gle Tchefary, Afrikan Kartel, Chigbo (Linda Obasi,) Ashe’ Jam Band, DJ Birane, and Noli Spy Ypsilon. So, if you’re looking for soul-stirring and native beats, Go Africa Carnival won’t disappoint.
The Official Details
To kick things off, here are the official details for this year’s Go Africa Carnival. Come to Harlem, to 116th Street, stretching between 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue, on July 16th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. For more information, you can visit the Go Africa Carnival website here. Additionally, if you need ticket details or have questions, you can contact the organizing team by email or phone at info@GoAfricaCarnival.org or phone at 646-502-9778 Ext. 8001.
Go Africa Carnival FAQs
Also, if it’s your first time discovering the Go Africa Carnival, you might have a few questions. So, here are some of the FAQs and available answers. And there are additional resources online, including the New York City map of the festival.
Are there minimum age or ID requirements?
Anyone is welcome to attend the Go Africa Carnival. However, because beer, wine, and spirits will be available for sale throughout the event, a government-issued ID will be required for purchase and consumption.
What about parking and transportation?
Event organizers suggest taking the C B Trains to 116th Street. Or you could take the 2, 3, or 6 Trains to 116th Street and walk eastward to 7th Avenue from there.
What else can be expected at the Go Africa Carnival?
Based on feedback from past attendees, be prepared for a proper introduction and immersion into the African community. Local businesses and participants collaborate to create an atmosphere of unity. Visitors come from near and far to celebrate the Caribbean and African heritage and talents. Shop for incredible African attire and goods. Eat well from a variety of diverse chefs serving up unique dishes. And treat the whole family to a truly authentic experience.
Check out the Go Africa Carnival Facebook page for updates. And gather your friends and family to head down to 116th Street. Celebrate African and Caribbean heritage in the way the Go Africa Carnival can!
As always, you can stay up to date with New York City festivals and goings-on, along with New York event planner tips and business insights, by following The Event Planner Expo blog series. Connect with us to learn more about this year’s Expo, including how to get tickets and explore exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities.
