Rise Fest

An afternoon celebrating Austin’s Black freedom communities.
Created by Pease Park Conservancy, The Rise Project, Outreach Productions

Austin Freedom Communities were founded by formerly enslaved people after Emancipation. They became thriving centers of Black culture, community, and resilience. Residents built homes, churches, schools, and businesses that sustained generations.

Pack your blankets and lawn chairs and gather in community to enjoy engaging activities, music, food, and discussions.

This year’s event will include:
* Sweet Home Baptist Church choir performance
* Music from DJ Ajah Monet
* Call and response poetry by Zell Miller
* Featured guests: Ms. Vessie and Ms. Flo, descendants of Freedom Communities, Manchaca and St. John

Visit interactive booths from:
* Painting with Rhea Rose
* Raising Roots Gardening
* The Austin History Center
* Bethany Cemetery
* Black Austin Tours
* Pease Park Conservancy
* Rise ATX
* Betelhem Makonnen
* Norris Explores
* Clarksville Community Development Corporation
* Third SPACES

Shop with:
* Blur Boutique
* So Curious
* Chak Therapy