African American Heritage Festivals
Celebrating Heritage. Celebrating Culture. Celebrating YOU.
Many cultures are embedded in Mobile’s rich history, but perhaps the African American community is most revered. Annual festivals and events honor, remember and celebrate the significant imprint of Black history on our 300-year-old city.
OWAMBE Festival
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Hosted by All Things Africatown, the inaugural OWAMBE Festival is a four-day celebration of Africatown's cultural heritage, creativity and community. The festival will feature various events, including community forums, cultural experiences and performances, providing guests the opportunity to honor and celebrate Black culture.
2025 Festival Dates: February 13-16
Festival Event Lineup
- Thursday, February 13 - Community Economic Development Forum at Historic Avenue Cultural Center
Representatives from regional banks will discuss the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and how banks invest in low-income neighborhoods by addressing economic disparities from 6 -8 p.m.
- Friday, February 14 - Community Economic Development Forum Part 2 at Mobile Museum of Art
Author and community advocate Majora Carter, along with representatives from local housing and economic development groups, will inform guests on ways to revitalize and reclaim their community from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
- Saturday, February 15 - OWAMBE Festival at Mobile County Training School Gymnasium
From 11 a.m.-4 p.m., enjoy a libation ceremony, live performances from the Bishop State Community Choir, historic quilt viewing by Gee's Bend Quilters and more at the OWAMBE Festival. Vendors, artists and food trucks will also be selling goods and food.
- Sunday, February 16 - A Live Ancestral Encounter at Africatown Heritage House
Local actors will enhance the experience of the Clotilda Exhibition through storytelling and detailing the origins of Africatown and its founders.
- Thursday, February 13 - Community Economic Development Forum at Historic Avenue Cultural Center
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BLOGS & MORE
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To me, Juneteenth is not only a celebration of independence, but it is also an opportunity to show deep gratitude for the millions of lives who found the strength to survive.
Suggested Itinerary: Our Storied Past
Discover the significant imprint of Black history on Mobile, from the story of segregation to the soulful taste of Black-owned restaurants. Plan your trip today!