The African American Cultural Collaborative of Mercer County has announced the followings series of spring through fall activities that reflect its mission to “educate, empower and unite Africans in the diaspora through cultural arts, health and wellness, entertainment, and sports”:
First Fridays
A downtown Trenton tradition since 2016, “First Friday is a monthly family-oriented block-party type of event that features food and locally based entertainment ranging from recording artists to DJs to spoken word to jazz ensembles. Held on Front and Warren Streets in downtown Trenton, event participants include the City of Trenton, Trenton Downtown Association, 1911 Smokehouse, CWA Local 1039 hosted, and others. The 2023 First Friday dates are June 2, July 7, August 4, September 1, and October 6 from 5 to 10 p.m. Participation is free.
Juneteenth Celebrations
Developed in partnership with New Jersey Legislative District and with support from the City of Trenton and Mercer County Parks and Recreation, the AACCoMC is presenting the following June events:
Saturday, June 3, African American History Bowl: Hosted by the AACCoMC and the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, the fourth annual event held at the New Jersey State Auditorium invites youth from local organizations to participate. Cash prizes will be awarded. Call 609-474-4073 or send information to trentonaapride@gmail.com.
Saturday, June 10, Juneteenth Celebration at Capital City Farm: The event will highlight the contributions of past and contemporary African American scientists, farmers, and food advocates, including Dr. James Still, Leah Penniman, Fannie Lou Hamer, and the Black Panther Party. Related educational experience will include a scavenger hunt, literacy circle with free books, live music, and free food. Visitors will also have an opportunity to pick fresh produce and flowers. Free. Capital City Farm is located on Asher Street, next to Trenton Area Soup Kitchen. Times to be announced.
The African Ancestry Reveal Experience: The first of what is planned to be an annual event, AACCoMC is hosting African Ancestry reveal to help Black people shape how they view themselves and Africa. The event will be held at the William Trent House, 3 to 4 p.m. Free.
Friday, June 16, Juneteenth “Kickoff Event”: This private and invitation only event at the State House Annex involves community members and elected officials and features cultural performances and presentations that highlight the history of Juneteenth and the contributions of African Americans in the United States.
Saturday, June 17, Juneteenth Celebration and Bike Ride. The daylong event in Mercer County Park includes youth art activities, a mobile garden demonstration by Isles, and a Center for Child and Family Achievement Literacy Village. Cultural performances include West African dance and drumming, presentations by local dance companies, live musical performances, and more. Exit 7A Riders host 30- and 50-mile bike rides. Bike tours will start at Mercer County Park Grounds and end at the same location.
En Blanc in the Capital City
The 3rd Annual En Blanc in the Capital City will occur July 29, at an exclusive location to be announced only to participants. Co-sponsored by the Ivy League Educational Foundation, Inc. En Blanc in the Capital is a white attire and decorated social and fundraising event that includes dinner, dancing, and music. Proceeds will help the ILEF to support high school seniors with education programming, book awards, and scholarships. The AACC will use funds to supports arts, cultural, and educational program in the City of Trenton and the Greater Trenton Area.
Levitt AMP Concert Series
The AACCoMC will present a 10-week concert series scheduled for each Saturday from August through October in Mill Hill Park in downtown Trenton. Performers will be announced over the next few months. The purpose of the Levitt AMP Series, funded in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, is to bring the joy of free, live music to people of all ages and backgrounds, transforming underused public spaces into thriving community destinations.
For more information regarding the AACCoMC and upcoming events, visit www.facebook.com/trentonaapride.
