Special to The Mississippi Link
JACKSON, Miss. — The Farish Street Heritage Festival is one of the City of Jackson’s and Mississippi’s most exciting and anticipated annual events. It began 31 years ago as a way to celebrate African American culture and history while increasing the awareness of the Historic Farish Street District. Scheduled for September 18-19, the 2009 Festival promises to be a weekend of unparallel entertainment, celebration, culture and community.
“This event is so much more than a festival, it’s an unforgettable experience for all who attend,” said Alberta Ross Gibson, chairman of the Farish Street Festival Board and Committee. “ It’s a fitting reminder that the Farish Street Historic district is the heart and soul of our capital city, and its preservation is vital to our continued progress. This neighborhood’s proud legacy is an essential part of our city’s culture and history.”
Taking pride in being the second longest consecutively produced African American festival in the state of Mississippi, this year’s Festival is keeping with the tradition of mixing old school funk and soul stirring blues. The 2009 Farish Street Festival entertainment line up is certain to bring a sense of nostalgia to the redeveloping area.
Headlining this year’s Festival are funk legends Original P and Midnight Star and blues men Eddie Cotton, Zac Harmon, and Grady Champion.
“This Festival happens as the same weekend as the big WC Gordon Classic were Jackson State takes on Grambling State University,” said Lee King, the Festival’s executive producer, “So after people finish watching two of the best the SWAC has to offer, they can come and be entertained by some of the best that music has to offer.”
The Friday (Sept. 18) before the big rivalry game between the JSU Tigers and the G-Men of Grambling, the Festival, in conjunction with Tiger Fund, will host a pep rally at the Festival site. This event is free and open to the public. Gates open at 6 p.m.
The Festival not only serves as entertainment, but is also a tourist attraction for the capital city. Each year thousands emerge upon the community that was settled by freed slaves to enjoy a weekend of family friendly entertainment, cultural enlightenment and empowerment.
“The tourism product here in the capital city continues to grow and improve through events such as the Farish Street Festival,” said Wanda Collier-Wilson, president and CEO of the Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Farish Street has a rich and unique history, and the Festival celebrates both the past and future re-birth of a significant area of Jackson. The Farish Street Festival brings visitors to our city, allowing them to see that Jackson is a premier destination and truly the City with Soul.”
This year’s Festival is being brought in part by Peavey Electronics, City of Jackson, Jackson Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Hinds County, Mississippi Arts Commissions, TV One, Comcast Cable, Roberts Walthall Hotel, Capital City Beverage and AT&T.
Tickets for the Farish Street Festival go on sale Monday, August 31. A limited number of $10 tickets can be purchased at all Bebop locations, Bama Record Shop on Bailey Avenue and Bully’s Soul Food Restaurant. For more information visit www.farishstfestival.com or call 601-948-5667.
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