Annual Warren African-American fest this week

Staff report

WARREN

The 29th annual African-American Festival, sponsored by CenturyLink and the Trumbull County African-American Achievers Association, will take place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through next Sunday at Courthouse Square.

The festival includes rides, games, concessions, arts and crafts, health information, entertainment and voter registration.

The festival’s opening ceremony at noon Friday will include the performance of the black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” A ribbon-cutting ceremony will feature appearances from Mayor Doug Franklin, African-American Achievers Association representatives and other Warren and Trumbull County officials. A boxing exhibition and evening entertainment will follow the ceremony.

Saturday’s events include a parade, health fair, dancing, talent show, and evening entertainment.

Nest Sunday’s activities will include gospel-choir performances and a jazz band for closing entertainment. Bob Davis, president of the Achievers Association, will give closing remarks and Elder Franky Parker of Eastside Church of Christ will give the benediction.