Event introduces a new tourism campaign, called African American Cultural Experiences, and celebrates Black Music Month
WHO: African American Cultural Experiences (abbreviated AACE and pronounced “Ace”) presents Music Through the Decades. WHAT: The official launch party of Newport News’ latest tourism initiative (AACE), held in celebration of Black Music Month. WHEN: 5 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, held rain or shine! WHERE: 740 Town Center Drive, in front of the Newport News Marriott at City Center. WHY: African American Cultural Experiences is a new tourism campaign that celebrates and promotes the rich cultural heritage of the African American community in Newport News. It showcases African American art, culture, and history, along with the Black-owned businesses. Its mission is to create an inclusive and welcoming hub for travelers, positioning the city as a destination that embraces and celebrates diversity. Click here to learn more about AACE. EVENT INFO: Music Through the Decades will feature local radio personality DJ Bee of Hot 91.1 WNSB FM spinning iconic tunes of Black artists from the 1960s to the early 2000s, changing every hour. The event also includes karaoke, games, contests, dancing, food trucks, art exhibits, vendors, community resources, demonstrations, storytelling, and more. Click here for additional event information. HIGHLIGHTS • Dress in attire from your favorite musical decade for a chance to win LiveNation concert tickets. Prizes will also be given for winners in a dance contest and a music trivia competition. • Enjoy Pop-Up Murals on select windows in City Center, created as an extension to the Newport News Street Museum and on view through the summer. • Listen to tales of African American culture with storyteller Sylvia Tabb Lee on our new trolley and hear the untold stories of Newport News under a tent with Senior Park Ranger/historian Robert Brooks. • Experience The Reference, a multimedia installation featuring a listening room with albums from the 1940s to the ‘90s. Visitors can bring their own records to play on the available turntables that are part of the installation.
