African Diaspora Affairs of Anne Arundel County is set to organize the African Heritage Festival on Saturday, September 9, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. EDT at Laurel Park, located at 198 Laurel Race Track Road, Laurel, MD 20725. The festival aims to highlight African culture, showcase its rich heritage, and bridge the gap between Anne Arundel County Agencies and available resources. Visitors can expect a variety of stalls from local vendors and businesses, coupled with music, food, and fashion showcases. Guests are encouraged to bring folding chairs to fully immerse themselves in the festivities. Tickets can be found here

About 150 stalls will offer clothing and jewelry for purchase. Additionally, attendees can look forward to a fashion event and a special area dedicated to children. The African Diaspora Affairs acts as a conduit between the African community and individuals of African descent and the Anne Arundel County administration. Their role ensures the County Executive Office remains up-to-date and responsive to the needs of Africans and their descendants in the county.

The event, which is open to the public and free of charge, invites people from all backgrounds to enjoy live performances and taste diverse foods. The festival’s inaugural event took place in 2021 at the Odenton Library, attracting 1,200 guests. The subsequent year saw a substantial increase in attendees with around 6,000 people. This year’s pre-registration numbers indicate a similar turnout as last year, as noted by the event coordinators.