Celebrating the Rich Culture of Black Americans in New York.

Schedule of events

Aug 1,2025

5:00 - 8:00 p.m - Black Arts and Cultural Festival Gospel Night

Featuring an Evening of Inspirational Musical Devotion With Karen Clark Sheard

Four-time GRAMMY® Award-winner and multiple Stellar and GMA Dove Award winner Karen Clark Sheard is a vocalist, songwriter, entrepreneur, wife and mother. She is also a gospel music legend and a part of a musical dynasty. Admired by a wide range of vocalists from various genres, Clark Sheard is renowned throughout the music industry for her signature, one-of-a-kind multi-octave vocal range and ability. 

Her musical style with the legendary Clark Sisters and as a solo artist has inspired a host of today’s brightest pop divas including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, and Faith Evans, among countless others.

Performance Schedule
5:00 pm - DJ Kick-off
5:30 pm - Local Gospel Showcase with Rev. Joy
The Capital District Community Men's Choir
Men of Faith
Community Voices of Praise
Authentic Worship
Community Hip Hop and Praise Dancers
Capital District Liturgical Dancers
New York Capital Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction Choir

7:15 pm - Karen Clark Sheard

Aug 2,2025

10:00 am - 2:00 pm - Grand Rising Health and Wellness Fair

Hosted by Ana Shaello of DNA Bodyworx and featuring a variety of fitness classes, double dutch performances, and health and wellness-related information and merchandise.

5:00 pm - 8:00 p.m - Black Arts and Cultural Festival Concert Finale

Featuring American RandB

Concert Lineup
5:00 pm - Winner of July 7 518 DJ Battle
6:00 pm - The Men of Soul
7:00 pm - Dru Hill

Date: aug 1-2,2025

Location:Empire State Plaza Convention Center - 279 Madison Ave Albany, NY 12242

Cost: free

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