African Street Festival marks 30th anniversary in Jackson

JACKSON, Tenn. — An area festival kicks off this weekend, marking a milestone this year.

The African Street Festival is marking its 30th year in the Hub City.

Festival goers get to see vendors, watch live performances and learn about African culture.

The parking lot of Oman Arena will be transformed into an African village. Organizers with the Society of African American Culture Awareness, or SAACA, say the festival has one purpose.

“You’re experiencing community, unity, and it’s a family reunion. We call it a party with a purpose,” said SAACA President Wendy Trice Martin.

WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News anchor and reporter Brittany Kyles will host this year’s festival.

The African Street Festival runs through Sunday in front of Oman Arena in east Jackson.