Black Arts and Cultural Festival

Presented by McDonald's, the Black Arts and Cultural Festival, formerly African American Family Day, is an updated take on a classic celebration of the traditions and cultural contributions of the black community through music, art, dance, and more. In addition to an exciting lineup of talent on the main stage, the festival will feature five destination areas highlighting themes such as heritage, health & wellness, arts & ideas, and empowerment; a satellite art display of the Albany Center Gallery; and a kids’ zone. Grammy-winning Sounds of Blackness performs and proclaims the music, culture, and history of African Americans to audiences all over the world. From jazz and blues to rock & roll, R&B, gospel, spirituals, hip­ hop, reggae and soul, the group colors each and every “Sound of Blackness” with uplifting messages of hope, unity, love and peace for all humankind. The festival will also feature performances by the Jubilee Gospel Community Choir, Scholastic Talent Showcase winners, Wassa Pan Afrika dance, and a Def Poetry Jam Reunion with Danny Simmons. Schedule of Events 2:00pm Opening Parade 2:15pm Jubilee Choir 2:50pm McDonald's Moment 3:00pm Scholastic Talent Showcase Winners 3:30pm Wassa Pan Afrika 4:15pm Def Poetry Reunion 5:25pm Young Noble Gentlemen 5:30pm Sounds of Blackness For more information, visit www.empirestateplaza.org Presented by McDonald's with additional support from NY State of Health, NYS 529 College Savings Program, NYS Homes and Community Renewal, NYSUT, CDTA, University at Albany, Price Chopper and Market 21, Mazzone Hospitality, Hot 99.1 and Renaissance Albany Hotel.