This world-renowned center of black history is celebrating African American art with a major block party this upcoming August.
A Block Party to Remember
The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) has announced plans to throw a rap block party. The Smithsonian released a promotional poster and official statement last week, detailing the exciting event.
According to the Smithsonian, the block party is packed with “performances by local and national talent, presentations and activities that explore hip-hop music’s origins and cultural influence”. To honor the one-year anniversary of the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap, a public celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Aug 13. Rap fans and black history buffs will have plenty of time to enjoy the music and festivities. The block party will run from 11 am – 11 pm. If you can snag a ticket, you’ll be treated to performances by O Slice, Yungmanny, Phuzz, and Mimi Fresh just to name a few. One notable performer is D-Smoke, a contender in season 1 of The Rap Game on Netflix.
DC is famous for its thriving block party scene. Capital Pride Block Party, The Block Party Carnival, and the HUSL Block Party are just a few of the yearly events the area hosts. Along with its bustling brunch culture and the go-go music scene, DC is a nonstop hub for black culture And camaraderie.
The Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap has already received glowing reception in its first year. Luckily, party patrons will be able to explore the museum displays during the building’s routine hours. If you’re a local foodie, there’s a reason to stop by. The Sweet Home Café, located inside the building, will be serving “hip hop-inspired” cuisine.
The live performances will take place inside The National Museum of African American History and Cultures first floor. There will also be an outdoor stage a short distance from the museum.
Recognizing Black Music as History
In addition to the block party, the Smithsonian is also premiering the seventh installment of its ongoing web series gOD-Talk 2.0: Hip-Hop & #BlackFaith. This series features several accomplished rappers and academics having enriching discussions about the culture. This special new episode promises to “explore[s] the relationship between hip-hop culture and Black expressions of faith and spirituality.” You can tune in on Facebook Live Sunday, Aug 14 to catch the episode.
The associate director for curatorial affairs for NMAAHC Dwandalyn Reece is all on board. She spoke about her excitement for the event in a recent statement. “The origins of hip-hop and rap rest in community where people gathered together in basements, on street corners, neighborhood dance parties and community shows to tell the stories of the people and places that brought it to life in a language all its own.” She began.
“It is only fitting that NMAAHC celebrates the one-year anniversary of the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap with a block party in our front yard. Like a true block party, we invite all ages to come together to enjoy activities and performances in honor of the museum’s greatest homage to the music and culture of hip-hop.” She explained.
Truly, this upcoming August has plenty in store for DC‘s history and music buffs.
Visit the official event site for tickets and further details.
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Dreema Carrington|IG: @dr3amgirl79 | Twitter: @notdreema
