The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History’s signature summer event, the African World Festival, returns this year to downtown Detroit July 15-17, but this year the festival will return back to the location where it started: Hart Plaza. Festival organizers say the move will help better accommodate the large, growing crowds that attend each year.

The 39th annual festival, the largest celebration of the African diaspora in Detroit, features a host of musical performers including headliners Mama Sol, Lizz Wright, The Legendary Wailers, Seun Kuti and more; special programming for children and families, like storytelling and a walking history tour; information booths with community resources; and more than 150 food, art and clothing vendors.

Festival Director Njia Kai sits down with American Black Journal host Stephen Henderson about this year’s activities and what attendees can expect from the family-friendly festival.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to Detroit PBS YouTube Channel & Don’t miss American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit PBS, WTVS-Channel 56.

Catch the daily conversations on our website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @amblackjournal.

View Past Episodes >

Watch American Black Journal on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on Detroit Public TV, WTVS-Channel 56.