Stratford Halls 2026, First Africans Day

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Stratford Hall

Performers from the African Diaspora Ensemble dance in front of Stratford Hall's Great House during First Africans Day.

You’re invited to First Africans Day, a powerful collaboration of reflection, celebration, and remembrance at Stratford Hall. Together, we honor the lives, stories, and contributions of the enslaved Africans and African Americans who shaped the history of this vital place in Early America. Explore these communities’ music, dance, foodways, and material culture across an unforgettable day-long experience.

Admission is free and includes access to the Great House, Grounds, and all First Africans Day activities, including:

·Opening Ceremony at the African American Cemetery, featuring Cheyney McKnight, Tanyah Dadze, Slam Stewart, and the Shiloh Baptist Church Choir

·Performance by the KanKouran West African Dance Company

·Keynote Speech by Adrienne Whaley, Director of Education & Community Engagement at the Museum of the American Revolution

·Foodways in the Historic Kitchen with Dontavius Williams

·Interpretation of the Payne Cabin with Hope & Willie Wright

·Textile & Sewing Demonstrations with Nastassia Parker

·Domestic Enslavement Interpretation by Adam Canaday

·Historic Trades with Harold Caldwell

·Drum Circles with the African Diaspora Ensemble

·Storytelling & Open Mic in the Great House

·Closing Ceremony on the Stratford Beach

Stay tuned for the full event schedule and list of activities! Food trucks and water stations will be accessible throughout the event.