MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Africa in April is wrapping up its weekend in the Bluff City. Sunday, the festival kicked off with an Easter service followed by the theme of celebrating everything music.
The faith community is in full swing Sunday, celebrating the religious meaning of the Easter holiday
But other than praise and worship, others took time to shop among the various colors and shops at Robert Church Park For Memphis’ Africa in April.
“We are here to celebrate and celebrate Memphis, celebrate people, celebrate culture, and celebrate our history,” said Yvonne Acey, who founded Africa in April alongside her husband, David.
This is the festival’s 38th consecutive year. Acey says this year the festival had representation from African countries like Cameroon, Nigeria, and Senegal to name a few.
Besides the introductions of new cultures to the city, Acey says what’s more special is the economic impact.
“According to research at the University of Memphis, it was 2 to 3 years ago, it said we make $3.2 million,” Acey said. “We didn’t see it but they saw it somewhere and they said the impact is growing.”
Artist Yolanda Newkirk was a first-time vendor looking to cash in.
“I created my canvases 90 days, I did it for 90 days straight and got 40 paintings out of it,” said Newkirk, who says her abstract paintings were inspired by faith and life.
She says for her first time being a vendor, it had its challenges, but was rewarding
“Great experience. I’ve never done anything like it before this big. I love it, I love being a part,” she said.
Organizers say from here, the sky is the limit as the festival continues to grow.
“There is nothing like the destination of Memphis, Tennessee, a place to make sure that your voice is heard,” Acey said.