Black culture in the U.S. abounds with music, dance, art, scholarship, and spirituality, all in the context of an inspirational history of struggle and accomplishment. Today, for anyone wishing to celebrate and experience, there are myriad ways to tap into that rich legacy.
Black America includes a kaleidoscope of African diaspora cultures, histories and even languages, such as (on this site) Nigerian American, Gullah, and Caribbean American. This page, however, is dedicated broadly to the millions of English-speaking Black Americans whose roots in America date back hundreds of years. Their ancestors were kidnapped and enslaved, but they continue to build and enrich our nation to this day.
Looking for a festival that embraces and celebrates Black culture? Popular annual favorites include:
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The Odunde Festival, one of the world's largest free street festivals featuring Black music, dance, art and food, held each summer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania;
The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, celebrating the primarily Black American musical traditions of Jazz, Blues, R&B, and Gospel music; and
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For a special focus on the blues, the Juke Joint Festival, the Big Blues Bender, and other blues events are sure to please.
The Essence Festival, an exciting 3 to 4 days of the nation's top entertainment and most influential speakers, usually held in July in New Orleans, Louisiana.
For something young, vital and vibrant, check out one of the several Hip-Hop festivals held annually nationwide.
Film buffs will love the American Black Film Festival, held each year in Miami, Florida.
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History comes alive in the many outstanding museums and monuments which recreate the events and struggles which have shaped the lives and progress of so many. Some top choices include:
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Take a step deeper into history with the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. The states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia have combined to showcase the places and people that changed our nation.
