This year marks the parade's 57th anniversary, and it takes place along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard between 111th and 137th streets.
WABC-TV Channel 7 is a proud sponsor of the parade, which will be streamed live on Sunday, September 20 at 12:30 p.m.
The African American Day Parade was founded in 1968 by two organizations: Afro-American Day & United Federation of Black Community Organizations. Members of these organizations saw a need for positive representation of the African American community, celebrating Black American heritage, talents and accomplishments, while also honoring ancestors. On Sunday, September 21, 1969, they hosted Harlem's first annual African American Day Parade themed "Africa's Gift to America."
Since then, the African American Day Parade (AADP) has been held every third Sunday in September.
This year's theme is 'Good Businesses Sustain Our Future.'
The grand marshals include entrepreneur and co-founder of the lifestyle brand FUBU J. Alexander Martin, chef Charles Gabriel, civil engineer and businesswoman Cheryl McKissack Daniel, and entrepreneur and community leader Michael Preston.