Summer Celebration is the largest African-American event in the nation with an anticipated attendance of more than 300,000 people. Enjoy everything from live music at the Music Heritage Festivals to exciting youth activities including the Youth Leadership Summit. It’s 11 days of arts, education, culture and community.

Film Festival
Independent films produced and written by African-American and African filmmakers will be shown July 13 starting at 10:05 a.m. at the Toby at Newfields. These films illustrate distinct messages from the artists about their culture and challenges and triumphs of the human spirit. There will also be discussions about certain titles and film making in general. A few of the films include Riverment, Always in Season, F.A.M.and A Question of Color.

Dance Heritage Festival
Take dance classes with the entertainment industry’s leading choreographers for music icons  Beyoncé, Usher, Jennifer Lopez and many more! Step your dance game up to the next level. For those interested in having fun, please join us as no previous dance classes are required. For aspiring professional dancers, build your resume’ and receive instruction and moves from some of the best in the industry. 

Youth Leadership Summit
This three-day leadership summit at the Westin Hotel allows for middle and high school student leaders to explore career opportunities and gain increased confidence and leadership skills. From July 19 – 21, students will hear and learn from professionals, engage in plenary sessions and interactive workshops, gain real hands-on STEM experience and be able to network with other youth across the state.

Music Heritage Festival I
This free concert at the American Legion Mall July 19 at 7:30 p.m. offers something for everyone with performances by Guy, Con Funk Shun and Angela Winbush.

Music Heritage Festival II
Enjoy an evening of musical celebration July 20 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse with artists Joe and Jazmine Sullivan at 1:30 p.m. and Stokley and Marsha Ambrosius at 9 p.m. Tickets purchased to this concert support IBE’s Youth and Family Programs.