African-American culture featured at Kalamazoo festival

Contact: Deanne Puca
Photo from Kalamazoo Black Arts Festival.

Black Arts Festival Thursday through Sunday, July 25-28

KALAMAZOO—A mini film festival, fashion show, live entertainment and arts and crafts are highlights of this year's Black Arts Festival, held Thursday through Sunday, July 25-28, at various locations in downtown Kalamazoo. The event showcases African-American artistic ability and cultural heritage and is sponsored by the Black Arts and Cultural Center.

Thursday, July 25

  • Free children's activities geared toward ages 6 to 12, including free hot dogs and drinks, carnival games, face painting, instrument petting zoo and live entertainment from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bronson Park.
  • Mini film festival featuring the film "Beast of the Southern Wild" and films from local producers at 6 p.m. at the Epic Center, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall. Free.

Friday, July 26

  • Poetry reading from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Epic Center. Free.
  • Fine arts invitational reception from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Gail Sydnor Art Gallery in the Black Arts Cultural Center at the Epic Center. Free.
  • Theatre reading from 7:30 to 10 p.m. at the Epic Center. Free.

Saturday, July 27

  • Live entertainment, fashion show, family fun, and original arts and crafts booths from noon to 6 p.m. at Bronson Park. Free.
  • Adult Summer White Party from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Epic Center. Event includes live jazz, DJ music, card games and tournaments. Admission is $15 and for ages 25 and up. Call the Black Arts and Cultural Center at (269) 349-1035 for information about discount tickets.

Sunday, July 28

  • Special church service hosted by Pastor James Harris from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Trenches Community Church, 1003 Gayle Ave.
  • Gospel music, including local Christian dancers, musicians, soloist and choirs from 1 to 5 p.m. at Bronson Park. Free.

Visit blackartskalamazoo.org for more information.