Sweet Auburn Spring Festival

Local business leaders, entertainers, artists, civil rights advocates and community activists are set to help emphasize and recognize historical African-American culture and commerce during this year's "grandest festival of the year on the greatest street on the planet," the Sweet Auburn Springfest.   Held In the historic Sweet Auburn District of Atlanta and attracting 350,000 attendees annually, adults and children of all ages will be able to join in merriment of the 27th annual "Sweet Auburn Festival," the gathering held to assist in celebrating Atlanta's ethnic historicity, thereby, remembering yesteryear's thriving Auburn Avenue. In the 1940s, '50s and '60s, successful African-American-owned businesses and entertainment venues led to Fortune magazine describing Auburn Avenue as the riches ?Negro? street in the world.   The Sweet Auburn Springfest is produced by the Spirit of Sweet Auburn for the purpose of supporting the business development, branding and marketing of the district.  Two major projects include transforming the Auburn Avenue viaduct into an outdoor international music café and arts and craft market.  The massive wall that spans the viaduct will become a mural with electronic displays telling the Sweet Auburn story.  The second mission is to establish Auburn Avenue as the Beale Street, Bourdon Street, Church Street Station of Atlanta. The preferred destination for both tourist and residents. From May 6-8, festival attendees will be able to enjoy 10 stages of continual entertainment that include the Atrium's Artist Market, the Business and Technology Expo, the South-s largest out door Health and Fitness Fair, A Active Senior's Pavilion, Literary Marketplace, International Fashions, the Kids Fantastic Fun Zone and the Just For Women-s EXPO.  Some of the nation hottest new talent will perform on ten stages of continual entertainment.  Artist are coming from as far away as London, Jamaica and from across the country. Artist who honed their skills performing at past festivals include, Usher, Faith Evans, OutKast, India Irie and Raven Symone. For more info call 404-399-0886.