African Heritage Festival

Join us to celebrate the vibrant traditions of African cultures and the Museum’s African art galleries with our annual African Heritage Festival! The festival will feature art making, performances, face painting, and a focus on the BMA’s African art collection. Representatives from the Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization will also be at the festival to share more about their work within the Birmingham community.

This event is FREE with registration!

EVENT SCHEDULE:

1–4pm // Face Painting with Yogi Dada

1–5pm // Art Activities, Face Painting with Painted Personalities, and the CACAO and Birmingham Sister Cities Community Tables

1–5pm // Food Trucks including Saw’s BBQ, Frozen Rooster, and Berries by Crystal

1:15–1:45pm // Performance by DRUM the Program

1:45–2:30pm // Performance by Carib Sounds Steel Band

2:30–3pm // Second Performance by DRUM the Program

3–3:45pm // Second Performance by Carib Sounds Steel Band

PERFORMANCES

We are excited to feature two special performances this year. DRUM the Program is an Alabama organization that provides educational experiences of West African drum and dance to increase cultural awareness and build community. They will present several dynamic presentations of drumming, dance, and song to engage, inspire, and energize participants. 

Carib Sounds Steel band will bring the high-energy notes of the Caribbean to the heart of our African heritage festival. Rooted in traditions from African culture, the steel drum is a symbol of cultural fusion, resilience, resistance, and celebration.

Each performer will present twice this year. Miss the first? Join us for the second!

FACE PAINTING

Explore the colors and shapes found in traditional African textiles with artist Yogi Dada. Yogi’s style is a beautiful blend of African culture and urban graffiti, and she’s ready to help you show off your spirit with elaborate, African-inspired designs. We’ll also have additional artists on hand to let your personality shine. Let your face be the canvas!

ART ACTIVITIES

Keep the rhythm of the day going by making a drum to take home. Inspired by a visit to our Arts of Africa galleries? Grab your coloring tools and bring the beautiful designs of select pieces from our collection to life!

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Connect with other organizations that enrich our community and promote cultural awareness. We’re excited to host the Central Alabama Caribbean American Organization (CACAO), Birmingham Sister Cities, and DRUM the Program, who will share more about their mission and work.

SPONSORS

Our Family Festival series is made possible by the Caring Foundation of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama with additional support from Medical Properties Trust.