Bring the family to the African Festival of the Arts in Chicago August 31-Sept. 3 and stay at the nearby and affordable LaQuinta Inn & Suites in historic Hyde Park!
The African Festival of the Arts has something for everybody! The Family and World Music Stage anchors the Bernice Gardner Family and Children Pavilion and features family-oriented programs like dance, theater, puppetry, magic and African “World” Music. There will be an Author and Book Pavilion, an African Heritage Pavilion, a Quilt Pavilion and a whole lot more.
Come celebrate The Drum. The Dance. The Experience, an exploration of the influence African and African-American heritage had on the cultural arts in Chicago for more than 40 years. This pavilion showcases interactive music education sessions and cultural performances rooted in African traditions; historical artifacts, photos; performances; and demonstrations by artistic Drummers and Dancers from around the world. Master drummers Olu Shakoor and Baba Tyehimba Mtu will lead sessions that teach drumming techniques. Bring your old drums for re-skinning.
The Festival is world renowned for its collectible fine art that includes original oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, charcoal, graphite, and works of limited editions, as well as sculptures in metal, wood, and mixed media. The best artists and works of wearable art and jewelry are featured in the Fine Arts Pavilion.
The African Festival of the Arts is located at Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove in Chicago. For tickets and more information, go online to https://aihafa.squarespace.com/afa-tickets/ and follow the prompts.
Make your African Festival of the Arts experience even more enjoyable by staying at the LaQuinta Inn & Suites, in Hyde Park. The hotel offers free shuttle bus service to and from the Loop area and is close to bus and train services. Enjoy the free breakfast. AND Jazz and seafood buffet (non-seafood items available) Friday nights.