The history of Harlem is a study on human resilience and tenacity, triumphing over systemic adversaries from racism to police brutality to gentrification. And in 2021, its people were fighting a new kind of battle – closures in light of COVID-19. As nearly 66% of BIPOC-owned businesses in America face the risk of closing permanently (vs. 57% of non-minority owned businesses).

In 2021, we launched the Thrillist Block Party and turned Harlem into a roller disco, dance party, and food festival, all in one. (Plus music, parades, competitions, and general neighborhood good- vibes celebrations.) Hosted by our Executive Producer Tren’ness Woods-Black, Queen of Hospitality, we brought out the best of Harlem with a one-of-a-kind event that blended culture, commerce and entertainment. Always in the spirit of giving back to the community, this event benefited Harlem Park to Park and provided funds to Black-owned businesses helping to keep the neighborhood, and entrepreneurs thriving.