WHAT: The 25th Annual African American Cultural Celebration
WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 31, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
WHERE: North Carolina Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
DETAILS: Join the North Carolina Museum of History for the 25th annual African American Cultural Celebration! This year’s festival will be held at the North Carolina Museum of Art due to ongoing renovations at the history museum.
For 25 years, this beloved event has been North Carolina’s premier kickoff to Black History Month. The celebration features performers, artists, educators, and community members for a vibrant day of music, dance, storytelling, art, and educational activities.
Event highlights include:
- Virtual Education Day: Students, teachers, and lifelong learners are invited to a free virtual event on Friday, Jan. 30. The day features storytelling by the North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers and live-streamed music performances during the annual AACC Education Day.
- Opening Procession and Welcome: The celebration kicks off at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 31 with a stirring procession featuring the United States Colored Troops, Carver High School’s Sound of the Swarm Marching Band, and The Magic of African Rhythm. India Williams will close the procession with a soulful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
- Hands-on Activities: Families can craft cowrie-shell necklaces and tissue-paper hats, join quilt-making with the African American Quilt Circle of Durham, and take home creative craft kits.
- Artisan Demonstrations: Watch master artisans create pottery, quilts, baskets, and jewelry. Explore unique displays of crocheted dolls, puppets, miniatures, and handmade hats.
- Performances: Experience live storytelling by the North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers and dynamic drumming from The Magic of African Rhythm.
For more information and to view the full schedule of events, visit NC-AACC.com.