Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake joined event producer greiBO Media to announce events and musical acts at the 2011 African American Festival. Taking place July 2-3, this free and family-friendly festival of African American music and culture has been held in Baltimore for three decades. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors from up and down the East Coast converge on the city to enjoy African American food, music, art, crafts, and dance.
The star-studded extravaganza featuring Charlie Wilson, Noel Gourdine, and many other national musical acts will be held at M&T Bank Stadium on Saturday, July 2, 2011 from noon to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday, July 3, from noon to 9:00 p.m. Coca-Cola is the title sponsor. In addition to entertainment, the 2011 African-American Festival will feature health screenings, cultural foods, contests, giveaways, and much more. Additional musical acts will be announced in the coming weeks.
“The African American Festival brings together our community of families to honor our past, celebrate our accomplishments, and showcase our future,” said Mayor Rawlings-Blake. “I believe that we live in one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the country, and I love any opportunity to show it off to people from out of town. I am grateful for the efforts of our sponsors and our Advisory Board members to make this the best festival Baltimore has ever seen.”
 2011 African American Festival Photographer Credit: Mark L. Dennis | The African American Festival is the largest annual African American cultural event on the East Coast and has attracted over 300,000 visitors to the two-day celebration for more than 30 years. The African American Festival has become one of Baltimore’s most well-attended, premier attractions for citizens and tourists alike. The event includes a variety of world-renowned and local entertainment, arts and crafts exhibits, jewelry, sculptures, ethnic and American cuisine, educational resources, and an interactive children’s area. This year, AAF will continue to build on its legacy of promoting tradition, cultural awareness, and Baltimore’s rich history while inspiring the future of the African American experience. |
“We are grateful for the hard work of the individuals responsible for making this year’s event a success,” said Shelonda Stokes, President and CEO of greiBO Media. “Our volunteer advisory board, Mayor’s Office staff, and sponsors are helping to breathe new life into a festival celebrating the history and culture of Baltimore’s African American community. Thanks to their commitment, Baltimore’s legacy will continue to thrive and grow for years to come.”
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Mayor, Baltimore City 250 City Hall - Baltimore Maryland 21202 (410) 396-3835 - Fax: (410) 576-9425
CONTACT: Ryan O’Doherty (410) 818-4269 ryan.odoherty@baltimorecity.gov
For more information, please visit www.africanamericanfestival.net/, or follow the Festival on Facebook (AfricanAmericanFestival) or Twitter @BmoreAfram. ###
IMAGE CREDIT: African American Festival | July 2-3 2011, Baltimore, MD: Photographer Credit: Mark L. Dennis
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