Harlem Meer Performance Festival
Join us this summer for music by the Meer!
The Harlem Meer Performance Festival is back! A beloved community tradition since the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center opened in 1993, this festival brings the best local talent to the stage each summer, filling Central Park’s north end with music and movement.
This year, we’re excited to present a fresh lineup of performers for a dynamic, genre-spanning festival. We hope you'll join us by the Harlem Meer on select Sundays in July* and August to groove to Afro, Latin, world, hip-hop, gospel, jazz, and blues sounds.
At intermission each week, we’ll shine the spotlight on Central Park Conservancy staff and share stories of our work as caretakers for Central Park’s 843 acres.
Bring your friends, family, and dance moves—all ages are welcome!
*Please note that there will be no performance on July 19, due to FIFA World Cup celebrations citywide.
2026 Schedule
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where does the Harlem Meer Performance Festival take place?
The festival takes place on the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center plaza, inside Central Park at 110th Street (Central Park North) between Fifth and Lenox Avenues.
Is there a restroom nearby?
Yes, there is an accessible restroom located at the Dana Discovery Center.
What are the closest subway stations?
Take the 2 or 3 train to the Central Park North–110th Street station (located at the corner of Central Park North and Lenox Avenue).
Is parking available?
Driving and parking in Central Park are prohibited. Free and metered street parking is available in the area, but finding a space can be challenging. Visitors should plan to arrive early if they are driving to allow ample time to find parking.
Who attends the Harlem Meer Performance Festival?
The Harlem Meer Performance Festival is a local event that caters primarily to communities residing in the neighborhoods bordering the north end of Central Park. However, all are welcome! The festival is family-friendly and the events are open to visitors of all ages.
Does it cost anything to attend the Harlem Meer Performance Festival?
The festival is free to attend, but your donations help ensure its ongoing celebration.
Do visitors need to reserve a ticket to attend the Harlem Meer Performance Festival?
Tickets and pre-registration are not required to attend the festival.
How can I receive updates about the Harlem Meer Performance Festival?
Join the email list to receive event news, information about our artist lineup, and more!
Are concessions offered at the Harlem Meer Performance Festival?
Concessions are not available at the festival. Visitors may bring their own food and (non-alcoholic) beverages. We encourage attendees to pack their picnics in reusable containers to create less waste and support the Conservancy staff’s efforts to keep the Park clean and healthy. Picnic areas are not available in the plaza.
What accommodations are provided for people with disabilities?
The Central Park Conservancy provides a limited number of chairs for those who need them. The plaza is accessible to wheelchair users.
What is your cancellation policy?
The Harlem Meer Performance Festival will take place rain or shine. Events will only be canceled in the event of severe weather conditions, including lightning or high winds.
Cancellations will be announced by 12:00 pm on the event date.
I’d like to apply to perform at next year’s Harlem Meer Performance Festival. How can I be notified when applications open?
I’m interested in sponsoring the Harlem Meer Performance Festival. Who should I contact?
Contact Liz Jordan, Director of Corporate Development, at [email protected].
I’m a member of the press. Who should I contact to cover this event?
Email [email protected] with your request.