15 Photos From the Harlem Holiday Lights Parade and 'Lights on the Plaza' That Glow
Check out this collection of photos from the two festive Uptown holiday events.
Every November, Harlem's central thoroughfare is sprinkled with holiday magic. From avenue to avenue, luminous Uptown celebrations like the 125th Street Business Improvement District's Harlem Holiday Lights Parade and Lights on the Plaza on Columbia's Manhattanville campus add a festive flair to the neighborhood's streetscape while illuminating the power of community.
This year's Harlem Holiday Lights Parade—themed “Dance! Harlem’s Heartbeat”—was a celebratory homage to the legacy of dance and a reflection of the cultural influence Harlem has had on the art form. Barrier-breaking ballerina Misty Copeland—creator of the Harlem-based nonprofit The Misty Copeland Foundation—served as Grand Marshal, and legendary dancer and choreographer George Faison—the visionary behind the locally-loved Faison Firehouse Theater—was honored with the 125th Street Business Improvement District's Legacy Award at The Forum.
Columbia University had the pleasure of joining the 125th Street Business Improvement District, the Apollo Theater, Settepani Harlem, Community Boards 9 and 10, and many other amazing partners and sponsors who made the event possible this year.
From Manhattanville to Madison Avenue, scores of neighbors gathered to usher in the season with festive music, enchanting floats, and cups of hot cocoa. Relive the joyous moments from both events, which took place on Nov. 19, through this collection of photos.
Lights on the Plaza
Harlem Holiday Lights Parade
