The 2nd Birthplace: Hip-Hop at 50 Walking Tour

Did you know that the first place in New York City where all four Hip Hop elements were presented together for the first time and outside of the Bronx was at a club/concert hall in the East Village? Did you know that rappers like Mos Def and Biggies got their start at an open mic show in the West Village? Join Tara Crichlow, aka “Big Tara,” a native of the Lower East Side, and a cultural ambassador.

The 2nd Birthplace Tour (Hip-Hop at 50 Tour) is a two-hour walking tour (10 stops) that honors the artists and entrepreneurs; explores spaces and sites in the Village that were pivotal in introducing Hip-Hop cultural elements (B-Boying, DJ-ing, Graffiti, Fashion and Emceeing) to the world. During a pivotal 20-year period in Hip-Hop history (1979-1999) nightlife venues, art galleries, walls and parks throughout the Village functioned as a secondary incubator and stage for B-Boys, Graffiti artists, Emcees, DJs and designers creating what we now call Hip-Hop Culture. It’s part of a year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip-hop, which began in The Bronx, but which grew and developed substantially in our neighborhoods.

• Tara Crichlow

In association with Village Preservation.

Free:  Spaces are limited. Pre-registration is required.

Meeting Place: Northwest Side of Washington Square Arch, Washington Square N, New York, NY 10012.