35th Annual African American Festival
Nashville’s black community shows pride for their heritage!
On September 22nd – 24th, the 35th Annual African American Festival took place at Hadley Park.
The festivities began at 11:00 a.m. and ended at 9 p.m. The street festival offered vendors selling food and clothing native to the African culture. Music was played from the reggae, blues, gospel, jazz, and R&B genres.
The history of Hadley Park dates back to 1912, where Nashville purchased 34 acres of land specifically for African American citizens, built on the plantation of John L. Hadley.
At Hadley’s invitation, Fredrick Douglass spoke to former slaves from the porch of the Hadley house; the porch stood in the park until 1948.
Most vendors sold fashion of the African culture.
Some were displaying art.
Many provided food for the event.
Others showcased their musical talent.
All of the people were radiating with pride for their culture.
Overall, the African Street Festival was a great experience interacting with such a free-spirited community.
