News Summary
The 36th Annual Savannah Black Heritage Festival begins this month, themed ‘Reimagining Excellence.’ Attendees can enjoy music, dance, art exhibitions, and educational lectures. Highlighting family unity and community pride, Grand Festival Day is on February 23. With accessibility initiatives in place, the festival promotes inclusivity while celebrating African American heritage through various engaging events, including historical tours and workshops.
Savannah Gears Up for 36th Annual Black Heritage Festival
When February rolls around, there’s one fantastic event that the residents of Savannah have come to look forward to: the 36th Annual Savannah Black Heritage Festival. This year, the festival kicks off an exciting lineup of activities and performances throughout the month, boasting a vibrant theme: “Reimagining Excellence.” It’s all about honoring the innovative spirit and contributions of both our historical ancestors and contemporary trailblazers in the community.
Fun for Everyone
Grab your calendars because there’s a lot happening this month! From live music to dance performances, the festival promises to be bursting with energy. National and regional musicians are set to light up the stage, featuring a wide array of genres that will get everyone tapping their feet. In addition to the toe-tapping tunes, attendees can enjoy captivating dance shows, a showcase of local youth talents, as well as historical tours that will tickle your curiosity about Savannah’s rich heritage. And art lovers can rejoice with visual art exhibitions that will be sure to inspire and provoke thought.
Mark Your Calendars for Grand Festival Day
The heartbeat of the festival is undoubtedly the flagship event: Grand Festival Day, scheduled for February 23. This day is all about families coming together to celebrate culture, unity, and community pride. Visitors can explore a bustling marketplace featuring local businesses, enjoy the sounds of the talented Soul Sessions Band, delightful singer Keyla Richardson, and the iconic MAJOR. It’s a perfect setting for families to connect, and a wonderful opportunity to support local artisans!
A Month of Learning and Reflection
The Savannah Black Heritage Festival isn’t just about entertainment; it’s also a platform for education. The W.W. Law Lecture Series will unfold throughout February, paying tribute to the great civil rights leader, Westley Wallace Law. Each event in this series offers unique perspectives on important topics. For instance, on February 12, attendees can catch stories from local African Americans at the Bull Street Public Library. Then, on the 13th, delve into the history and legacy of the Divine Nine at the Jepson Center.
On February 15, casual genealogists will appreciate the Tracing Your Roots Workshop, also at Bull Street Public Library. Moreover, there’s a special Men’s Health Fair on the 16th at the Georgia Infirmary focusing on mental health awareness—an initiative that highlights the importance of wellness in our community.
Wrap up the series on February 18 at Savannah State University, where Dr. Karsonya Wise Whitehead will discuss the Voting Rights Act. That same evening, don’t miss the Annual Future of Jazz Concert at the Jewish Educational Alliance, honoring the late great Ben Tucker. It’s a vibrant end to a thought-provoking lecture series.
A Festival for All
Accessibility is key this year, with the festival introducing braille programs and tactile maps to make events enjoyable for everyone. The organizers believe that celebrating African American heritage and achievements should be inclusive and engaging for all attendees. Plus, on February 6, get ready to be mesmerized by a performance from the Ballethnic Dance Company, kicking things off in style.
The Celebration of Community
So there you have it! The Savannah Black Heritage Festival is not just an event; it’s an experience that embodies the spirit, culture, and achievements of the African American community in Savannah and beyond. All events are free to the public, thanks to funding from the City of Savannah and the generous support of local donors. To stay updated on all the happenings, head to the festival’s website or give them a call at 912-358-4309. Make sure you’re part of the celebrations this February—because this is one festival you won’t want to miss!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Community Leaders Drive Positive Change
Black History Month Events in Savannah
Savannah Celebrates Black History Month with Engaging Events
Additional Resources
- WSAV: Savannah Black Heritage Festival Holds Grand Festival Day
- Savannah Tribune: Savannah Black Heritage Festival Continues Month-Long Celebration of Culture & History
- WTOC: Savannah Black Heritage Festival Bringing Cultural Events Throughout February
- Wikipedia: Black History Month
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Black History Month
