FRANKLIN

The annual free Franklin African-American Festival is scheduled to take place from this Saturday, Sept. 21, at Barrett’s Landing in downtown.

Johnny Ruffin Jr. starts off the event with gospel music beginning at 2 p.m. Thomas Councill III will be a soloist and Elonvo Ricks Jr. will also perform music.

Starting at 3 p.m., James Blue Curry will be a one-man show. The youth dance group, Create Bliss, is on the schedule. The Sunshine Ladies and King, a senior modeling group, will strut in style. The Summer Jam Youth Review will also make an appearance.

Gospel music resumes at 4 p.m., this time by the Holland New Birth Community Choir. Shellz will perform gospel rap.

At 5 p.m., Walt will bring gospel hip-hop and spoken word, followed by the Shakina and Shekinah Glory Dance Ministry. Then the Word Steppers and Word Gymnastics Team will perform.

More high fashion is featured at 6 p.m. through Grace and Company.

The Phazz II Bank will play R&B funk, old school and jazz starting at 7 p.m.

Throughout the day there will be food vendors, educational exhibits and merchandise available. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs or blankets.

Should the weather become unfavorable, the venue will be in the auditorium of Franklin High School, 310 Crescent Drive.