Located in Manhattan, Harlem is a part of New York City that is starting to attract more and more visitors. Home to a large and diverse African American population, Harlem offers travelers a chance to experience the community’s rich cultural heritage, especially during its annual Harlem Week.

Harlem Week traces its roots back to Harlem Day which was first held in 1974 under the patronage of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC). The initial idea was to set aside a day to celebrate and share the community’s diverse history and culture be it economic, political or artistic. The event was such a hit, that Harlem Day soon became Harlem Week and has now become one of New York’s largest festivals.

Harlem Week events and celebrations in actual fact are not relegated to just one week alone and can be experienced throughout the summer months. Those visiting the area during this period can expect to find a wide range of concerts, shows, exhibitions, business related forums, sporting events and family oriented programs that offer an educational and entertaining insight into Harlem’s multiethnic community which is made up of African, Caribbean and Latino Americans to name but a few!

Attracting more than 3.5 million people alone in 2010, the Harlem Week festival also plays a valuable role in providing a much needed injection of capital into local businesses which in turn helps the community to prosper and grow.

With over 100 different events taking place, Harlem Week also showcases the area’s energetic nightlife and multiethnic cuisines and has something for everyone. Offering visitors a unique slice of life view into this colorful community, Harlem Week is a not to be missed event when visiting Manhattan, New York.

With so much to see and do in the Big Apple, it is important to find New York city hotels that are close to the places you want to visit. Those wanting to be within easy reach of the city’s financial district as well as its popular shopping and cultural attractions can stay at hotels in Midtown East NYC such as the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel New York which is ideally located right across from the United Nations.