Despite lingering showers and cold temperatures, the 6th annual Black Joy parade rolled through downtown Oakland on Sunday to celebrate Black experience of the past, present and future.
The parade was followed by an all-day festival consisting of over 200 Black-owned vendors; including food, drinks, clothing, handmade items and official Black Joy merchandise.
There were also two stages of Black performances, including headliner Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton. There were activities for the entire family with Lil Joy for kids, Games n’ Grooves, featuring card games, domino tournaments and chess; and the Healing Village with Black massage therapists, yoga instructors, and a tea-making session.
There was also an outdoor rollerskating area hosted by Black Cultural Zone, Black Vines, a wine-tasting area with over a dozen Black winemakers, and much more.
Despite the drizzle, the parade began on 14th and Franklin in downtown Oakland at 12:30 p.m. Following the parade, the festival ran from noon until 7:00 p.m. The main entrance into the festival is at 19th and Franklin Streets.
Admission was free for all, but any donations go to support local artists and production of the event. The Black Joy Parade is a volunteer-run organization and a registered nonprofit which you can donate to by clicking here.
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Source: www.mercurynews.com