PANAFEST, Celebrating African Heritage, Returns to MoCo on Saturday, September 24

On Saturday, PANAFEST will be held at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. PANAFEST gives our community a chance to celebrate the rich diversity of Africa during African Heritage Month. This year’s theme focuses on unity and bringing together people with African ancestry from all over the world. This will be the 11th annual gathering in Montgomery County with African cuisine, fashion and music on display from noon until 9 p.m.

PANAFEST is one of the largest festivals in our region recognizing the communities of the African diaspora. “Please attend and enjoy the wonderful entertainment, great food and shopping options. It will be quite a festive atmosphere in Silver Spring.” Marc Elrich wrote in his weekly message to the county.

Per PANAFEST: “Pan African Festival USA (PANAFEST-USA) is a cultural festival held in Silver Spring Maryland annually to celebrate African heritage and showcase the cultures of area residents of African descent under the overall arching theme “I ♥ African Heritage Unity!”

The month of September is designated as African heritage in Montgomery County Maryland. Events celebrating and promoting African heritage are held throughout the month, culminating in the Pan African Festival. The Festival is designed to show case the rich and diverse cultures of African countries through live performances, arts, crafts, African cuisine, African fashion and African music. This event also provides a unique opportunity to educate attendees previously not exposed or familiar with African culture as well as foster collaboration within our local African diaspora communities.”