Unity Heritage Festival to Celebrate African American Culture in Central Florida

A Celebration of Community and Culture

The 24th annual Unity Heritage Festival is set to enliven Winter Park, Florida, on January 18-19, 2026. This vibrant event, held during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, is a hallmark celebration focusing on African American culture, community cohesion, and the empowerment of local youth. The festival has, over the years, transformed from a modest gathering into a vibrant tapestry of music, food, and community spirit, reflecting the rich history of the African American community on Winter Park’s west side.

Event Highlights

Robert Knight, the event president, describes the Unity Heritage Festival as a dynamic and free two-day event designed to unify the community and foster relationships among local businesses. Attendees can expect an array of live music, delectable food from various vendors, and engaging activities for children, including bounce houses and games. This year, due to colder temperatures, festivities will take place indoors at the Winter Park Community Center, ensuring a comfortable environment for all participants.

Music and Entertainment

A key feature of the festival is its diverse lineup of performances, which spans genres like gospel, blues, and jazz. Attendees can look forward to special programs dedicated to praise dancing and an uplifting atmosphere. The Sunday schedule hosts a “Praise and Gospel Day,” inviting families to join in the celebration immediately after church services, while Monday concludes with a ministerial fellowship program and a keynote speech from the mayor.

Community Significance

The festival roots itself deeply in the heart of the Winter Park community. Jasmine Harris, the manager of the Hannibal Square Heritage Center, emphasizes the center’s role in preserving the history and stories of the African American community in this region. The center features the Heritage Collection, a permanent exhibit that showcases photographs and narratives donated by local residents, highlighting life in the area before desegregation.

Harris notes that the festival aims to ensure that attendees recognize and appreciate the substantial contributions of African Americans to the history of Winter Park, particularly those who reside or have resided on the west side. This initiative fosters a sense of shared identity, emphasizing the familial ties and community bonds that have persisted for generations.

A Legacy of Growth

What began as a small project has blossomed into a significant community event with a rich history. Knight recalls his humble beginnings—conceptualizing the festival using clip art and jotting ideas on napkins. Over the last 24 years, the initiative has gained momentum through grassroots efforts and partnerships with local organizations like Men of Integrity, which focuses on mentoring young men through education and community service.

The festival’s evolution is a testament to the enduring spirit of community engagement. Knight reflects on the festival’s transformative impact, highlighting the stories exchanged among attendees that spotlight the essence of what the west side of Winter Park represents.

Accessing the Festival

This year’s Unity Heritage Festival promises not just a celebration, but a learning experience that connects families and individuals with their roots and each other. It is open to everyone, ensuring that the community can participate in a collective celebration of heritage.

Event Details:

• When: January 18, 2026 | 1 PM – 5 PM
  January 19, 2026 | 10 AM – 5 PM
• Where: Winter Park Community Center, 721 West New England Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789

For more information, residents can visit the City of Winter Park’s website or the Hannibal Square Heritage Center’s page, where they can learn more about the festival and programs dedicated to local youth mentorship.

Conclusion

As anticipation grows, it’s clear that the Unity Heritage Festival is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant gathering that celebrates the rich tapestry of African American culture, promotes community bonding, and empowers the next generation.