African American Heritage Festival

Location & Activities


The African American Heritage Festival is held the 3rd Saturday in August. Locations are downtown Charles Town, Wright Denny Elementary, and alternative school grounds at Avis and Lawrence Street. This event showcases the history and talent of the African American community in Jefferson County, with vendors, a parade, and live entertainment as well as tours of historical landmarks significant to African American history in Jefferson County, Charles Town, and Ranson.

August 14 - Gospel Fest at the Betty Roper Auditorium. In addition, a Youth Block Party will take place on the festival ground.

August 15- Parade will begin at 12 noon from West 3rd Ave in Ranson to the Festival ground located at 300 South Lawrence St. in Charles Town. Local school bands and independent marching units from Maryland will participate.

The festival ground activities will include youth recreational activities, food and craft vendors, public service vendors, demonstrations and music. Local talent will be displayed throughout the festival.

August 16- The Sunday program will begin with an early morning pilgrimage to the site of John Brown's fort located on Murphy Farm in Harpers Ferry. This will be followed by an ecumenical church service at Curtis Freewill Baptist Church located on the Storer College campus in Harpers Ferry.