Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall, and partner organizations are excited to announce the return of the annual Pinkster festival on Saturday, May 11, 2024. This vibrant celebration of culture and history will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, located at 29 Warburton Ave., Yonkers, NY. The event is free and open to the public.
Pinkster was the first truly African-American holiday in the United States. “Pinkster” comes from “pinksteren,” the Dutch word for Pentecost, and began as a Dutch religious holiday and a celebration of spring. In the Dutch colony of New Netherland, enslaved Africans combined the Christian traditions of Pentecost with elements of African celebrations to create the unique festival known as Pinkster. Today, the Pinkster Festival honors this rich history with music, dance, food, vendors, and more, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the resilience of African culture.
Michael Lord, Site Manager of Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site shared his excitement for the event, “We’re so pleased to be hosting our second annual Pinkster Festival at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site, which brings the community together to celebrate the African roots of our shared American heritage.”
The Pinkster Festival at Philipse Manor Hall will feature captivating performances by The Pinkster Players, led by the esteemed Chief Baba Neil Clarke, as well as musical delights from Carla & Keyes. Attendees will also enjoy free admission to the museum, a variety of activities including children’s games, storytelling, history talks, and opportunities to engage with partner organizations such as the Yonkers Public Library. Throughout the day, musicians will roam the grounds and museum, providing a dynamic and immersive experience for all attendees.
“We are really looking forward to hosting families with all the fun programs and activities we have planned including scavenger hunts, an activity booklet, and historical games plus the interactive live performances,” said Sarah Wassberg Johnson, Education and Programs Manager of Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site. “It’s going to be a wonderful day.”
Highlighted performances include “Colonial Crossroads” with Carla & Keyes, where attendees can explore the intersections of European and West African music in Colonial America. This engaging program combines live music, history, and audience participation to bring the sounds of early New York to life.
Additionally, “The Story of Pinkster” with the Pinkster Players offers a captivating exploration of what Pinkster meant to enslaved people in the Colonial period, illustrating how they expressed themselves, maintained relationships, and kept their African cultures alive. This performance, geared toward the general public and families, includes elements of audience participation.
The festival will also feature a reading of “The Pinkster Ode,” published in 1803, which chronicles the happenings of the annual Pinkster festival in Albany. Members of the public are invited to participate by reading selected stanzas, adding to the immersive experience of the event.
For more information, including schedule of events and vendor list, visit https://www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events/pinkster-festival-2024
