Formerly African American Family Day, join us in a celebration of the diverse history and culture of the people of the African Diaspora. One of New York’s greatest strengths is its diversity, and this event is a great opportunity to come to the Empire State Plaza and celebrate our state’s African American community through music, art, dance and activities.
Headlining this year’s event is Will Downing “The Prince of Sophisticated Soul” with special guests Season 4 Sunday Best winner Amber Bullock, contemporary jazz flutist Ragan Whiteside, and the multi-cultural ensemble One World Tribe.
Expanded Kids’ Zone and interactive activities including pony rides, face painting, arts and crafts, science experiments and bounce rides.
Scratch Academy where kids can learn the techniques practiced by hip hop DJs.
Live demos including Austin’s Barbershop battle, spoken word and poetry slam with Urban Guerrilla Theater, Triple Threat All-Stars Cheerleading and Dance; and Trinity Alliance Hoops Challenge.
An Albany Center Gallery satellite exhibit with 18 artists showcasing their work on black arts and culture plus live painting.
New Destination Areas
Destination Heritage: Access information and find out about services available for learning about the black experience, past to the present.
Destination Finance: Information and financial assistance plus a chance to win a financial makeover from Sunmark. Sponsored by Sunmark Federal Credit Union
Destination Education: Find information on everything education related, from college admissions and student life to financial aid. Sponsored by University at Albany
Destination Empowerment: NYS Labor Department representatives will be onsite to provide information about their workforce initiatives plus a mini job fair. Sponsored by New York State Department of Labor
Destination Health & Wellness: Zumba and Bokwa fitness demonstrations, healthy cooking demos, and information on available insurance coverage and health services. MVP’s new community outreach vehicle will also be at this destination. Sponsored by MVP Health Care
Destination Beauty: Get syling tips, see demonstrations, and watch hair stylist and barber battles. The barber battle starts at 3 p.m. and will feature competitions in traditional cut and style; free style design; and duplicate design, as well as a speed fade battle. Sponsored by Austin’s School of Spa Technology
Activities, valuable information, and more!
Performance Schedule
12:00pm Opening Ceremony
12:45pm Plaza Lites Talent Competition Winners
1:30pm Amber Bullock
3:00pm Ragan Whiteside
4:30pm One World Tribe
6:00pm Will Downing
Due to Plaza construction, events will be held at the North end of the Plaza. Seating will not be available. Please bring a lawn chair.
Ground Rules
In order to maintain the public safety and security of State property, its occupants and visitors during OGS sponsored special events, as well as to enhance the efficient and orderly operation of the facilities, until further notice, we are establishing special ground rules for the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza (ESP), the Capitol, and all surrounding areas, including the Plaza Level of the ESP, West Capitol Park, East Capitol Park and Lafayette Park.
The following special grounds rules will be in effect during special events at the Empire State Plaza: No alcoholic beverages (other than those sold on site by authorized sellers), coolers (defined as rigid insulated containers), or glass containers of any kind; animals or pets (excludes ADA-defined service animals) will be allowed. Any type of recording of the performance or presentation is prohibited without prior written consent. All attendees should be prepared to present age identification at any time if they intend to consume alcohol. State Police or security personnel reserve the right to inspect any bag, container or package and confiscate any prohibited or illegal items.
Directions
I-87 south to I-90 east: 1-787 south to Empire State Plaza exit
I-87 south to exit 23: I-787 north to Empire State Plaza exit
I-90 west to I-787: south to Empire State Plaza exit
I-90 east to I-787: south to Empire State Plaza exit
Parking
Free parking is available in the East Garage. During the Food Festival and other weekday concerts, free parking begins at 5:00pm. The East Garage is located on the Corners of Madison Avenue, Eagle Street and Philip Street. Entrance to the East Garage is accessible through three entrances:
1. Taking the Empire State Plaza exit from I-787, tunnel under the Empire State Plaza and loop around. The East Garage entrance is on the right just after emerging from beneath the Plaza.
2. Philip Street Entrance – Turn from Madison Avenue or Grand Street onto Philip Street
3. Eagle Street Entrance – Turn from Madison Avenue onto Eagle Street
For information on other visitor parking lots, visit Visitor Parking on the OGS website.
Event Categories: Events
