RISING SOUTH 
$5 Festival Wristband
- Offers from participating Wristband Partners
- Eligible activities, including Northside Rides and the painting experience
- Entry in festival door-prize drawings
Saturday, October 24, 2026 · Huntsville
Black Arts, Fashion & Culture Festival
Celebrate people, culture, community, and a brighter tomorrow.
Culture, creativity, community
Presented by Black Alliance of the South in partnership with Rising South Literacy School.
Free admissionOctober 24 · 2–6 p.m.
The Mansion on Blue Spring
4001 Blue Spring Road NW
Huntsville, Alabama 35810
View full imageExplore each experience
The day
Festival lineup
Music, poetry, comedy, dance, inspirational voices, fashion, awards, prizes, and community moments.
On stageShowcase performers
Singers, dancers, poets, comedians, a choir, a drumline, and community talent.
StyleFashion show
Designers, models, personal style, and wearable art.
Shop localVendors & food trucks
Discover Black-owned businesses, community partners, and festival food.
StoriesAuthors’ Row
Books, readings, storytelling, and a special book debut.
Take partFestival experiences
STEM, storytime, painting, yoga, and community conversation.
CelebrateAwards & nominees
Community excellence and People’s Choice voting.
Youth voicesEssay contest
How I Plan to Change the World. Submit by October 15.
Free entry. More ways to enjoy the day.
$25 Golden Ticket
- All wristband benefits
- Preferred seating for the fashion show and talent showcase
- An autographed new book by Dr. Dedra Muhammad and a festival gift bag
- Three entries in door-prize drawings
Community line dance finale
Close the celebration together with music and movement.
Video coming soonBe part of the festival
Student volunteers can welcome guests, support storytime and youth activities, help with setup, or assist the festival team. Each hour served counts as one volunteer service hour. Sign in and out with the volunteer coordinator to verify your time.
A certificate documenting verified hours will be sent within one week after the festival. Use it for your records, resume, scholarship or college applications, or school service requirements, subject to each program’s requirements.
Please click here to volunteerFestival sponsorship
Help create moments families remember through art, literacy, and shared community experiences.
Explore festival sponsorship