African Heritage Festival entertains, informs in Tuscumbia

TUSCUMBIA, Ala. (WAFF) - The 22nd annual African Heritage Festival was held Friday and Saturday in Tuscumbia.

People from across the southeast came to Willie Green Rec Center to see live music, enjoy great food, see original art and learn about African history and culture.

Rea Phyfer is the treasurer of the event. He said that aside from the gospel music, reggae show, scholarship giveaway and dance contest the real focus is education.

“We’re looking forward to a good time,” Phyfer said. “But the most important thing is bringing everyone together and learning about their culture. That’s what we’re doing here.”

Phyfer said learning about culture is especially important for young people.

“We’re trying to give the younger people an idea of what it took in the olden days,” Phyfer said. “They paved the way for us to do what we need to do. It’s important to come out and find out the things our forefathers did a long time ago to bring stuff like this together.”

The event kicked off on Friday and concluded Saturday morning. Phyfer says everyone is welcome at the 2024 festival next year.

“We want to help the ones that don’t know about our race or culture,” Phyfer said. “This is something that will give each person - whether you’re white or black or green - a chance to learn about this African culture we’re all a part of.”

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