Winners of Miss Harlem Shake Kay Angrum (2020) and Tanasia (2025)
Photos: Kerby Jean
For the past 13 years, becoming Mr./ Miss Harlem Shake has meant much more than winning a title. It’s a celebration of neighborhood pride, local leadership and the people who help make Harlem what it is.
This summer, Harlem Shake is bringing back its beloved annual Mr./ Miss Harlem Shake contest, giving one Harlem resident the chance to earn a spot on the restaurant’s Wall of Fame, receive a year of free burgers, win $1,000 and direct a $500 donation to a Harlem-based charity of their choice.
Voting officially opens June 8 and runs through July 6 at Harlem Shake’s flagship location at 100 W. 124th St. Customers can cast a vote for their favorite contestant with a purchase made at the restaurant.
The competition has become a neighborhood tradition since launching more than a decade ago, spotlighting local residents who represent the spirit, culture and community of Harlem. Past winners have gone on to find success across media, entertainment and public service, including NBC award-winner Kay Angrum, “Sherri” producer Marco Glorious and actress Shannon Thornton.
To celebrate the contest, Harlem Shake will host a Meet the Contestants party on Sunday, June 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the 2026 contestants while enjoying live performances from resident R&B and jazz performers C. Kelly Wright and the Soul Power Band.
The festivities will continue on July 12 with the Golden Cup Ceremony, where the winning Mr./ Miss Harlem Shake will be officially crowned. The winner will receive a ceremonial Golden Cup filled with their favorite milkshake, a $1,000 cash prize and a gift card for one year of free burgers at any Harlem Shake location. Their selected Harlem-based charity will also receive a $500 donation during the celebration.
The event will be hosted by former Miss Harlem Shake and global changemaker Aisha Diori.
Visitors can also celebrate the contest by trying two limited-time specialty milkshakes available during the voting period. The Knicksicle Shake honors the New York Knicks’ playoff run, while the Apollo Shake pays tribute to the relighting of the legendary Apollo Theater marquee.
Known for serving burgers, shakes and classic comfort food with a distinctly Harlem flavor, Harlem Shake has become a cultural institution since opening its doors. Through the annual Mr./ Miss Harlem Shake contest, the restaurant continues to highlight the people who help shape the neighborhood’s identity while giving residents a chance to support local causes and celebrate community together.
For more information, visit www.harlemshake.com.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.amny.com ’
