African-American culture featured at Kalamazoo festival

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.