Harlem Holiday Lights parade illuminates 125th Street, dazzling crowd and honoring Apollo Theater
HARLEM, Manhattan (WABC) -- The holiday spirit filled the air along 125th Street once again for the 2025 Harlem Holiday Lights parade, shining a special spotlight on a community institution.
The annual parade of lights kicked off at 125th Street and Broadway in Harlem on Tuesday night.
It was a big thumbs up from the children who came out to watch.
"It was really fun. I liked the lights and the music, said one girl.
"I liked the cars, and when I saw Mario and Luigi," said one boy.
From the music to the lights, the young at heart also enjoyed this kick off to the holidays.
"A lot of people got the message tonight. Got the love tonight. Good vibes everywhere," said an Amazon worker.
The theme of this year's celebration was "Culture, Community, Connections," highlighting how the 125th Street Business Improvement District has grown into a place to work, live, visit and learn. It also showcased Harlem's evolution throughout the generations.
This year's grand marshals included actor Malik Yoba, who was born in the Bronx and raised in Harlem. The legendary Apollo Theater was also a grand marshal.
The parade celebrated Legacy Award recipient Michael A. Walrond Jr., the senior pastor of First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem.
The Harlem Holiday Lights celebration began as simple street decorations, but has since become a moving illuminated showcase for the entire neighborhood.
The event was free and open to the public, and attendees got to see at least 20 magically lit-up floats along the parade route. There were also community activations, including toy giveaways for the youth, a canned food drive as well as live entertainment and performances.
Among those who participated was a stilt dancer, Standing more than 12 feet tall.
"It is really not hard. As easy as riding a bicycle," said performer Isaiah Young.
"For more than 30 years, Harlem Holiday Lights has evolved into a community-wide holiday celebration representing the historical and cultural flavors of our neighborhood and draws thousands of visitors from all over the region," said Barbara Askins, president and CEO of the 125th Street BID.
"The parade and our activations are an opportunity to further shine a spotlight on 125th St. and the iconic neighborhood as a growing arts, culture and entertainment destination while also encouraging locals and visitors to support the economic fabric of the corridor, our small businesses."
WABC-TV is a proud sponsor of the Harlem Holiday Lights parade.
You can learn more about the event on the Harlem Holiday Lights website.
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