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Sacred Spaces: The Legacy of Black Churches in Cherokee County

April 9 – August 30, 2025
Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
221 East Marietta Street, Canton, GA 30114, USA

Description

Black churches in Cherokee County, born from the resilience of the enslaved and newly freed in the 1800s, became far more than places of worship—they were the beating heart of the Black community. These sacred spaces nurtured minds with education, empowered voices in political and social movements, and provided a sanctuary where culture and faith thrived. From uplifting sermons and joyous fifth Sunday gatherings to shared meals and unwavering support, these churches embodied strength, unity, and the unshakable spirit of a people determined to rise.

The Cherokee County History is open Tuesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and closed Sunday and Monday. Please check historycherokee.org for updates on hours.
2025 May

22

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26

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"We Are Music" Photo Exhibit

May 22 – July 26, 2025
05:00 PM - 05:00 PM
399 Edgewood Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA

Description

"We Are Music" is a special photo exhibition featuring the works of veteran Atlanta photographers Jim Alexander and Sue Ross. The collection features more than five decades of Black musicians and performers at pivotal moments in Atlanta's history.

The exhibit kicks off with an opening reception on May 22 to coincide with Atlanta Jazz Festival this weekend and leading into Black Music Month in June. Guests can see the images until July 26.
2025 June

26

THU

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Where Culture Meets Rhythm: Aspire African Dance Class

June 26, 2025
08:00 PM - 09:00 PM
675 Smyrna Powder Springs Rd SW, Marietta, GA 30060, USA

Description

Join us for Aspire African Dance Classes — a vibrant celebration of movement, culture, and community! This 6-week class blends traditional African dance with historical storytelling and fitness.

Whether you're a beginner or experienced dancer, this is your chance to:

🌍 Learn authentic African dance styles

📚 Explore the rich cultural history behind each movement

💪 Get a workout while having fun

🎶 Feel the rhythm, build confidence, and connect with others

When: Every Thursday from 7:00–8:00 PM

Where: Milford Recreation Center

Cost: $90 for a 6-week session ($15 per week)

Register: Call 770-514-6546 

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Experienced Dancers? Contact us to schedule a tryout for our professional dance company at 888-247-4911 or contact@BeforeSlavery.com.

Spaces are limited, so grab your spot today using the QR code on the flyer!

Come dance, learn, and grow — the Aspire way.

Any questions? Feel free to contact us at 888-247-4911 or contact@BeforeSlavery.com. 

Our website: BeforeSlavery.com

27

FRI

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Faith Ringgold: Seeing Children Exhibit

June 27, 2025
09:00 AM
1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Description

This summer, the High will present the most comprehensive exhibition to date of original paintings and drawings made for more than a dozen of her children’s books, featuring more than 100 works, including several that have never previously been exhibited. These include original paintings from “If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks” (1999), “Dinner at Aunt Connie’s House” (1993) and “Tar Beach” (1991), in which Cassie, a Black child in 1930s Harlem, imagines a future where she can go anywhere that she dreams of from her apartment’s rooftop. Also on view will be complete artwork from the fable “The Invisible Princess” (1999) and “We Came to America” (2016), which examines the history of immigration in America. Together, the artworks in the exhibition illuminate critical aspects of Ringgold’s practice and convey how Ringgold, a lifelong educator, presents children as creative, purposeful art makers. The exhibition is the latest in the High’s popular series celebrating children’s book art and authors.
2025 July

13

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Aliah Sheffield Live in Atlanta!

July 13, 2025
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
515 N Mcdonough Decatur 30030

Description

Born in Newark, New Jersey, and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Aliah Sheffield finds beauty in the in-between, the welcoming space that surrounds her ruminations on love, life, and speaking truth to the world. An avid reader and writer who trained on clarinet and saxophone, she transitioned to piano during her senior year of high school, when she also started writing songs. Her mother introduced Aliah to records by Nina Simone, Donny Hathaway, and Aretha Franklin, iconic artists who “spoke about depression, feeling misunderstood, racial inequality; they spoke about just problems in America.” They exerted a strong influence on Aliah, as she says, “Songs can be about more than just, you know, love. You can really say something that matters.”

After leaving Berklee College of Music in Boston, Aliah settled in New Jersey and began gigging with friends around the Tri-State Area. She became a singer when she realized that if she wanted her words to be heard, she would have to sing them herself. Working day jobs ranging from music tutor to security guard to cruise ship performer, she helped relaunch the historic Philly soul/R&B label Sound Gems after its decades-long dormancy with her 2014 single “Where I’m At (Is in Love with You).” Focused on her writing as the isolation and chaos of the pandemic lockdown took hold, Aliah developed an online audience as she uploaded videos of herself singing original songs inspired by the minutiae of everyday life. A move to Mexico resulted in her breakthrough song, “Earth Is Ghetto,” whose viral success (over 1 million TikTok creates) prompted a move to Atlanta. Learning how to produce songs there, Aliah released a collaborative album, Since You’ve Been Around (2021), with jazz/soul band Soul’d Out. 

Aliah has found her voice with the completion of “THESE SONGS ARE FOR ANYONE SICK OF EARTH”, her debut EP via Def Jam, featuring “Boo Boo The Fool” and “Some Of Your People.” After more than a decade of hard work, her story is proof that beyond the destination, there’s beauty in the journey – the in-between. For Aliah Sheffield, a new journey is beginning.

19

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The Happy Black Parent 4th Annual Children's Book Festival

July 19, 2025
10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
352 University Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA

Description

Come celebrate with The Happy Black Parent for our 4th year! Listen to stories, meet children's book authors, participate in fun activities and taste amazing foods from local vendors.

28

MON

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Omar

July 28, 2025
09:00 PM - 10:30 PM
PONCE CITY MARKET, 650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

Description

City Winery Atlanta presents OMAR live on July 28th at 9pm, part of a two show series! 

Omar's career spans four decades of influential music, from his breakthrough hit "There's Nothing Like This" to collaborations with legends like Stevie Wonder and contemporary artists such as Giggs. Celebrating his 40th anniversary with "Brighter The Days," his 9th studio album showcases his evolution and enduring appeal, blending funk, hip hop, and soul. Omar's unique style, highlighted by his distinctive vocals and orchestral elements, defines him as a genre unto himself. With numerous standout tracks including "This Thing Called Life" and collaborations with artists like India Arie and Paul Weller, Omar continues to shape the landscape of British soul music.

31

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Black Writers Weekend 2025

July 31 – August 2, 2025
06:00 PM - 05:00 PM
101 Auburn Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30303

Description

Presented by AAMBC Black Writers Weekend is our annual three day festival starting Thu Jul 31 ending Sat Aug 2. Get ready to explore our vendor market, pitch your books or film scripts, connect with other writers and authors, partake in panel discussions, attend workshops and more. Don't miss this event that amplifies and supports our community. Summers in Atlanta are LIT est. 2008.
2025 August

28

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Atlanta Black Theatre Festival

August 28-30, 2025
All day
350 Spelman Lane, S.W., Atlanta, GA 30314, USA

Description

This fall, don’t miss the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival and Creative Arts Conference—an incredible celebration of Black stories and culture. It’s a place where powerful performances and heartfelt stories come alive, inspiring everyone who walks through the door.

Whether you’re looking for a moment of reflection or a burst of laughter, this festival will remind you of the strength, beauty, and resilience of community. Be part of something special, connect with inspiring artists, and leave feeling renewed and motivated to share your own story!

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31

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Taste of Soul Atlanta

August 30-31, 2025
All day
Northside Dr. & MLK Jr Dr., Atlanta, GA 30314, USA

Description

Get ready to indulge your taste buds at Taste of Soul Atlanta 2025, the city’s ultimate celebration of soul food and culture! From sizzling fried chicken to creamy mac and cheese and homemade desserts; TOSA brings you the best soul food from Atlanta’s top restaurants, vendors and chefs. The festival pairs amazing flavors with live music, art, and family fun—don’t miss this chance to eat, vibe, and celebrate in the Soul Food Capital of the World!