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Henry Street Heritage Festival Celebrates 32 Years this Weekend!

Daytime activities are free, before the big stars come out at 7 p.m.!

September 16, 2022

The Henry Street Heritage Festival is a celebration of Roanoke's African American business and music history.  Henry Street served as the commercial and entertainment center for African-Americans in Roanoke during the early 1900s.  Henry Street is where black citizens sought out professional and medical services, dining, shopping, and entertainment.  During the days of segregation, and due to our proximity to Richmond, Henry Street was a prime location for  national jazz entertainers to perform and stay.  Big names like Louis Armstrong, Nat "King" Cole, and Ethel Waters are just a few of the celebrities who performed here during their hey day.

 The Henry Street Heritage Festival, presented by Truist, is a community event presenting an array of diverse regional and national live entertainment, educational forums, and exposure to African-American heritage as expressed through the performing arts, crafts, cuisines, customs, merchandise, and children’s activities. 



Event details: 

When: Saturday, September 17th, Gates open at 12:30 p.m.

Where: Elmwood Park. Enter on Franklin or Williamson Road

Cost: Free until 5 p.m.  

Enjoy Children activities, Vaccine Clinic, Beer Garden (Cash Only), Free Resources, Food and Merchant Vendors!

Purchase tickets for Music Concert starting at 7 pm with performances from SWV and Robin Thicke!


Ticket prices:
Early Bird Advance Ticket – On Sale Until Aug. 15th: $30 (plus processing fees)
Advance Ticket – On Sale Aug. 16th: $35 (plus processing fees)
Day of Festival – $45 (credit cards incur processing fees)

Tickets can be purchased at Center in the Square Box Office or online. 

Proceeds provide the primary resources to support the ongoing programs and operations of the Harrison Museum of African American Culture.

The Harrison Museum of African American Cultures, Inc. (HMAAC) is a cultural and educational institution committed to advocating, showcasing,
preserving and celebrating the art and history of African Americans for Roanoke Valley citizens and visitors. Our purpose is to cultivate awareness and appreciation of the significant contributions of people of African descent.