The Manassas African American Heritage Festival of Prince William County is a family celebration of African American arts and culture!
The festival is held every first Saturday in August celebrating the rich diversity of African American culture.
The Festival's Origins and Growth
The Manassas African-American Heritage Festival was started in August 1990 in celebration of the vast contributions made by African Americans to our County’s history and identity. Held for the first time in 1990, the festival is a celebration of the many contributions made by African Americans to the county’s history and identity. The festival grew out of the work of the VOICE Newspaper, a local newspaper dedicated to informing the African American community.
Over the years the festival has grown to include 150 exhibitors, retailers of African Wares, youth groups, colleges and school exhibits, Health Fair, Business and Job Expos, and a Classic Car Show.
The family-friendly festival has grown to include more than 125 exhibitors, including arts and crafts dealers, retailers of African wares, youth groups, colleges and school exhibits, health fair, business and job expos, Classic Car Show, and great food vendors.
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This year’s festival will feature more than 150 exhibitors, including arts and crafts dealers, retailers of African wares, youth groups and colleges and schools.
African American Heritage Festival Full Segment
What to Expect at the Festival
Admission is free and features music, entertainment, dances, vendors, exhibits, food, art, crafts, history, children's games, and free school supplies.
A variety of entertainment will also be offered, including gospel, rhythm and blues performances, a martial arts performance, a hair show, video game stations and DJs.
Free school supplies and more than 500 books from the nonprofit Empowering S.E.L.F will be given out to children. Festival organizers encourage residents to show up early before supplies run out.
Additional Features
- Classic Car Show
- Arts and Crafts Dealers
- Retailers of African Wares
- Youth Groups
- College and School Exhibits
- Health Fair
- Business and Job Expos
- Great Food Vendors
Practical Information for Attendees
The Manassas African-American Heritage Festival will be Saturday, Aug. at Metz Middle School.
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Festival goers are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs for seating near the stages. Lawn chairs are welcome.
Parking is available on the east and west sides of the school, and a free shuttle service will be offered from Osborn High School to the middle school.
Admission to the outdoor festival is free.
Those interested in volunteering can do so at any time of the festival by checking in with festival staff at the check-in tent.
Community Recognition
At the Tuesday, July 25, Meeting the BOCS proclaimed, affirmed, and recognized the 33rd African-American Heritage Festival and encouraged all residents to join in honoring and celebrating the Manassas African American Heritage Festival on Aug.
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