Heritage: African American

Sacramento

From the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains to the baroque styled State Capitol, Sacramento’s African American history and contemporary culture is rich with pioneers, music, poetry, food and old-fashioned fun!

Hailed as “America’s most diverse big city,” it’s easy to see why Sacramento remembers and honors its African American heritage. Thousands gather at the annual Juneteenth celebrations, commemorating the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, at Granite Regional Park with stages of live entertainment, poetry, praise dance, children’s activities, BBQ and more. “Reclaiming the Past: African Americans Along the American River” celebrates with historical re-enactments, including Buffalo Soldiers at Negro Bar, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, the site of one of the first African American mining camps from the Gold Rush era.

For contemporary culture rooted in African American heritage, visit some of Sacramento’s cultural jewels: 40 Acres, featuring The Guild Theatre, a unique mosaic of creative happenings, an art gallery, a barbershop, a bookstore, a coffee house and quality entertainment envisioned and established by former basketball star and native Sacramentan Kevin Johnson; the Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts’ world-class performances; and Celebration Arts Theatre. Visitors can view the Convention Center’s internationally acclaimed artworks, including those of Al Loving and Elizabeth Catlett.

Discover and partake in Sacramento’s spoken word community. While getting your hair done, you can listen to dynamic readings by legendary local performers Straight Out Scribes at K.I.N.K.S International Holistic Beautification Center or witness the word of mouth success of the Mahogany Poetry Series every Wednesday night at the Jamaica House Restaurant.

Explore some of Sacramento’s African American-owned establishments including Arts D’ Afrique to find exquisite African imports, or 1910 Boutique for hand-beaded palazzo pants, jewelry and one-of-a-kind handbags. Indulge your taste for soulful cuisine at Celestin’s Caribbean Restaurant, Jazzmen’s Art of Pasta (musical entertainment), House of Chicken & Ribs or The Bayou.

From jazz to blues to gospel rhythms, you’ll move to the tunes at the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee (May 23-26) and the Meadowview Jazz Festival (June 28). Delight in an evening of fun and fireworks at Raley’s Celebrate America on July Fourth featuring Sacramento Philharmonic’s Maestro Michael Morgan, one of the nation’s leading African American classical conductors. Electric jazz, blues, gospel and steel drums can be heard at the Oak Park Concert Series (June-September), or samba to the Carnival with African diaspora culture of the Americas at the California State Fair (Cal Expo, August 15-September 1).

Whether it's festive music, fun or culture, visiting Sacramento is a capitol idea!