Where Harlem Meets the Hamptons: SATURDAY, AUGUST 1, 2026 –APOLLO IN THE HAMPTONS 2026!
What do Harlem and Sag Harbor have in common? At first glance, not much. One is known for its iconic brownstones, jazz clubs, and the legendary Apollo Theater. The other is celebrated for its waterfront charm, beautiful beaches, and small-town character. Take a closer look, however, and you’ll discover a rich history that has connected these two communities for generations. For decades, Black families from Harlem spent their summers in Sag Harbor, helping establish one of America’s oldest historic Black beachfront communities. That connection is still alive today, making Apollo in the Hamptons feel less like a fundraiser and more like a homecoming.
On Saturday, August 1, 2026, the Apollo Theater Foundation returns to EHP Resort & Marina in East Hampton for its premier summer fundraiser. The evening promises world-class entertainment, exceptional dining, and an opportunity to support one of the most important cultural institutions in American history.
More Than a Summer Celebration
Apollo in the Hamptons is much more than an elegant evening on the East End.
Every ticket purchased helps support the Apollo Theater Foundation’s year-round artistic programming, arts education, emerging artist development, and community engagement. Those programs continue the Apollo’s mission of creating opportunities for future generations of performers while preserving the theater’s remarkable legacy.
The event also supports the Apollo’s historic restoration, ensuring that one of America’s most celebrated stages continues inspiring audiences for decades to come.
Harlem’s Sound Comes to the Hamptons
This year’s entertainment lineup celebrates both legendary artists and unforgettable live performances.
Guests will enjoy performances from the iconic R&B trio Brownstone, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Estelle, and DJ Aktive. The evening concludes with the return of DJ Cassidy’s legendary Pass the Mic, an experience that has become one of the most talked-about live performances anywhere in the world.
Pass the Mic is never just another concert. It is an interactive celebration that brings together generations of artists in one unforgettable performance. Every appearance creates moments audiences remember long after the music ends.
Waterfront views, exceptional cuisine, dancing, and Harlem’s unmistakable energy promise another memorable evening.
Preserving More Than a Theater
The Apollo Theater is much more than a building on 125th Street.
It represents dreams.
It represents opportunity.
It represents Black excellence.
The Apollo introduced the world to artists including Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Lauryn Hill, and countless others who forever changed American music and culture.
Preserving the Apollo means protecting those stories while creating space for future artists to write their own.
A Weekend Celebrating Black Culture
Apollo in the Hamptons is part of On Our Toes in the Hamptons: A Weekend of Cultural Elevation, at Guild Hall is a collaborative initiative that brings together organizations whose work spans music, theater, dance, visual arts, and community engagement. As part of the weekend’s celebration of Black artistic excellence, the Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center will host two free community master classes on Saturday, August 1. The Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) will lead a community dance class, while internationally acclaimed choreographer Ronald K. Brown and his renowned Evidence, A Dance Company, will offer a free dance workshop. Together, these programs provide a unique opportunity for local residents, aspiring performers, and dance enthusiasts of all ages to learn from some of the nation’s most respected artists while experiencing the rich traditions that continue to connect Harlem and the Hamptons. Events like Apollo in the Hamptons and these free community workshops remind us that preserving culture isn’t only about honoring the past. It’s also about investing in the next generation of artists, storytellers, and creative voices. The partnership demonstrates the power of cultural collaboration while celebrating Black artistic excellence across generations.
Real Talk. Real People.
Growing up in Harlem, the Apollo was never simply another theater. It was the heartbeat of 125th Street. Walking past those famous marquee lights meant something. Every Amateur Night offered someone the opportunity to become the next household name. Every standing ovation became part of Harlem’s story.
Seeing that same spirit celebrated in the Hamptons feels especially meaningful. Sag Harbor has always shared a unique relationship with Harlem. Families built memories there. Friendships were formed there. Traditions continue there today.Apollo in the Hamptons honors that connection beautifully.
- Music brings everyone together.
- History reminds us why it matters.
- Culture ensures the story continues.
- That is why preserving the Apollo matters.
- That is why events like this deserve our support.
Event Information
Apollo in the Hamptons
Saturday, August 1, 2026
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
EHP Resort & Marina (Si Si Restaurant)
295 Three Mile Harbor Hog Creek Road
East Hampton, NY 11937
Guests will enjoy exceptional dining, live entertainment, and performances by Brownstone, Estelle, DJ Aktive, and DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic, all while supporting the Apollo Theater Foundation. For tickets and additional information, visit apollotheater.org
Photo courtesy of The Apollo Theater Foundation.
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