ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — The Harrison Museum of African American Culture hosted the 33rd annual Henry Street Festival at Elmwood Park on August 16. Organizers told WFXR it’s a day to celebrate the Henry Street District of Roanoke — a historical hub of black culture in the city.
“This is one of the key fundraising events for the Harrison Museum of African American Culture. Without this event, there is no museum. So, we need this to continue to support the museum and to continue to provide that service for our community,” said Eric Beasley, Henry Street Festival committee member and treasurer for the Harrison Museum of African American Culture.
With live entertainment, food, art, and vendors — participants were able to experience some of the African-American culture in the star city. Organizers say the event is a way to connect people with local businesses, partners, and organizations in the area. The raised funds will go to supporting the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, located in the Center In The Square.
“The history is important. This is like almost a homecoming for folks that have been a part of this for a long time,” Beasley said. “The history is what we’re about, and this is a way that we can keep it alive and keep it very fresh and in the forefront of our minds.”
Beasley says some volunteers come back from outside the state for the event to give back to their home community. He says everyone is invited to come out to the Harrison Museum which has free admission.
“This festival is for everybody. We may be celebrating the African-American culture and the Black culture of Roanoke, but this festival has something for everyone. And we invite everyone to come out and join us, not just this year, but for years to come,” Beasley said.
More information and ways to donate are online here.