Heritage: African American

San Diego

San Diego, a big city with a small town feel, is chockfull of hidden treasures dispersed throughout a myriad of cultural locations. When you examine the record on important events in African American history, the depth and breadth of contributions to the social, cultural, and economic strength of this nation is revealed.

In renowned Balboa Park, the WorldBeat Center offering Brazilian and African dance, martial arts and drum classes, is a great place to start your journey. Nearby, the San Diego Museum of Art exhibits the elegance of masks, jewelry and more from West Africa (August 23, 2003–January 1, 2004). Also visit the Mingei International Museum of Folk Art’s Collector’s Gallery, a showcase for traditional and contemporary handcrafted goods from around the world.

At downtown’s Civic Theatre, Broadway/San Diego presents Disney’s blockbuster musical Elton John & Tim Rice’s AIDA (July 15–20, 2003), Verdi’s classic tale of love, betrayal and courage, set to a Tony® and Grammy® Award-winning score.

In Southeastern San Diego, you’ll find the historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, founded in 1897. Further east is the Julian Hotel, built by a former slave and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. State and local parks offer their own historical fare. The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park –The Light Freeman House is dedicated to two remarkable African American men who made it their home.

San Diego neighborhoods offer urban adventures. Off the beaten track, view contemporary works of art at The Charles Rucker Gallery, or browse the stacks at It Is Written Bookstore, where writings by and about Americans of African descent are sold. Stellar acoustics, world-class talent and an intimate setting put Jazz at the Athenaeum on every jazz lover’s “A” list. And, no visit is complete without savoring some down-home cooking at Huffman’s Barbecue or Aswan African & Creole Café.

Winter in San Diego is glorious, a fitting backdrop to dozens of activities celebrating African American heritage. In January, pay homage to a civil rights legend during the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Pageant and Parade or attend the Multicultural Festival held in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Promenade. During Black History Month, the Bob Marley Day Festival and the annual Kuumba Fest welcome music lovers of all ages. In late summer, you’ll rock at the annual Encanto Street Fair & Cultural Arts Festival.

For a complete African American travel itinerary, www.sandiegoartandsol.com, click on Cultural Itineraries and go to Sol to Soul.