MONTHLY THEME: Black august
Come join us in commemorating Black August Month. We will dance, make noise, rejoice, and join together to uplift and celebrate the Black American freedom fighters who have and continue to do the hard work for liberation. Enjoy workshops, music, performances, and more.
We are excited to partner with our neighbors at 405A, DuYe on these events! Both houses will have open events all day!
Black August Celebration – Saturday, August 16
House opens at 11am; events run noon-6pm
⏰ 11AM Lawn Opens - Catering Provided by Fauzia’s (while supplies last)
⏰ 12PM DJ CRT & Help Build the Future:
Throughout the day Music + Kids and families are invited to a creative LEGO activity.
⏰ 1PM The Upcycle Edit - A Special Sip n’ Sew 405A
DuYe House is thrilled to welcome Kat for a two project workshop that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned creatives:
# Project 1: Bring a large T-shirt — we'll turn it into a tote bag
# Project 2: Bring a garment you'd like to upcycle into something new
Special Workshop $35 per person Reserve Tickets Here
⏰ 1PM Bachata with Abril - 405 Lawn
Discover Bachata! Learn about its origins, basic footwork and body movement, and try out simple partner work. No experience or partner needed—everyone is welcome!
⏰ Live Drawing by Paula Walters Parker & DU Dancers 405 Lawn
Watch artist Paula Walters Parker and dancers create using raw cotton, indigo, sorrel, turmeric, coffee, and avocado, highlighting art’s connections to cultural heritage.
⏰ 4PM Line Dance Class & Social 405 Lawn
Line Dance with Pascale of Orisha Wholeness
Celebrate culture and community, with Orisha Wellness’ Line Dance class! Rooted in the rich traditions of Black social dance, this class features classic and contemporary line dances that have lit up family reunions, cookouts, and dance floors for generations. From the “Electric Slide” to the “Wobble” to getting those “Boots on the Ground.” Perfect for all levels, this fun class offers a welcoming space to move your body, lift your spirits, and dance your way to better health—one groove at a time.
Pascale is a passionate movement educator and a founding member of Orisha Wellness, where she has dedicated years to uplifting the community through fitness and wellness. With over a decade of experience teaching dance fitness and body conditioning, Pascale brings energy, joy, and intention to every class. Her mission is to help people live healthier, more vibrant lives—physically, mentally, and spiritually—through movement.
Come share food, dance, create, and learn with us! All ages and backgrounds are welcome—no experience necessary. See you on Governors Island!
Location: Colonels Row 405 Lawn, Governors Island NYC
Featured artists: Paula Walters Parker, Abril Amparo, Genevieve Martinez
More artists in gallery: Claire Unabia & Matthew James (O`ahu / Brooklyn), Sonja John, Tommy Hite (O`ahu)
Featured Monthly Partners: Talk Story Collective, Pua Aliʻi ʻIlima o Nuioka, Paula Walters Parker
Plan Your Trip
Governors Island is accessible by ferry daily year-round.
From Manhattan: Ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island run daily from the Battery Maritime Building, located at 10 South Street in Lower Manhattan. Scroll down for schedules and click the green "Purchase tickets" button to purchase tickets.
From Brooklyn: Seasonal ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island run Saturdays, Sundays, and Holiday Mondays from May 24 to September 14, 2025, from two Brooklyn locations: Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and Red Hook/Atlantic Basin. Scroll down for schedules and click the green "Purchase tickets" button to purchase tickets.