Pinkster Festival!

New York’s First African American Celebration
Saturday, May 2, 2026 • 12 PM to 4 PM • FREE!
Van Cortlandt House Museum Lawn

Once a major holiday in 17th century New York, Pinkster is the Dutch name for the Christian event of Pentecost. For enslaved and free people of African descent, Pinkster morphed into a unique holiday that incorporated African rituals, traditions, and pride. It is considered New York’s first African American holiday!

12 PM Tours
1 PM Live Music
2 PM Storytelling
3 PM The Story of Pinkster
4 PM Libations at the Enslaved African Burial Ground

Featuring:

• Chief Baba Neil Clarke, Master Percussionist
• The Pinkster Players
• April Armstrong, Master Storyteller
• Tijay Mohammed, Artist
PLUS: Food for sale! Art-making!

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development in partnership with the City Council.

The Kingsbridge Historical Society and VCHM’s programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.