In the New Netherland Colony, Pinkster was a unique Afro-Dutch celebration – a week of temporary freedom for enslaved people. Able to travel, earn money, and gather in groups, Pinkster allowed enslaved people to take a break from their endless work, see separated family members, preserve and pass on culture to the next generation, and resist enslavement.
The Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site in Yonkers, NY will host a Pinkster Festival on Saturday, May 20th. Pinkster is the Dutch name for Pentecost, a religious holiday and celebration of spring where people took time to travel and visit family.
The Pinkster Festival will feature African music and dance, games and children’s activities, vendors, and food and drink.
This program will take place from 10 am to 5 pm, and is free and open to the public. The Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site is located at 29 Warburton Avenue, in Yonkers. For more information, click here.
Beautiful!