As vast and varied as the Music, Dance, Art, Sculptures, Museums and Festivals are – so much of it is showcased within this village of the Pan-African world that features, also, boutiques, over 100 vendors, performance sites and, oh, so much delicious food.
Location
In Los Angeles, CA, at the intersection of Crenshaw Blvd. and Vernon Ave. is a pocket park (Leimert Park). Crossing the street and going N for 2 blocks and both E and W for one block, you are in the heart of Pan-African Village @ Leimert Park. Welcome, and Enjoy!
Why
From a LEAP report: “A people without land in their name is a people without Power --and, therefore, a people forever economically, culturally and politically poor.” That is why all other groups in the City have insisted upon a land site in recognition of their name and/or culture. (from: Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics, Inc.)
- Yes, 16 Other ethnic, cultural tourism sites already exist in the L.A. area.
Description:
- It’s the epicenter of Afro-centric events and culture in Southern California
- Over 65 Black-owned businesses are collated here: shops, cafes, music
- Its central location gives easy access to downtown L.A. and the freeways
- The architecture (mostly art deco) and wide streets are perfect for tourism
The quiet and lovely, tree-lined residential area that surrounds Pan-African Village @ Leimert Park is known for its Moorish/Spanish architecture, mixed with a moderne styling of some of the apartment buildings. Pan-African Village mirrors that beauty. You will love the space you’re in.
A geographic cultural location constantly promotes:
Cultural Understanding, Unique Experiences, Fun, Education and Entertainment
Aren’t you excited about seeing an architecturally stunning and culturally authentic tourism district-- one showcasing the diverse expressions of global African culture?
The Inventions, the Art, Music, etc., of The Caribbean, Pacific Islands, South America, Africa, Indonesia, Australia, Oceania… We’re international! What an historic experience.
Black/Afro-Descendants can then join 16 groups that proudly showcase THEIR influence:
Little Armenia
Byzantine/Latino Qtrs
Little Bangladesh
Little Japantown
Filipinotown
Maya Cultural District
Koreatown
Thai Town
Little Tokyo
Little Ethiopia
Chinatown
Little Saigon
Olvera Street
Little India
Little Arabia
El Salvador District
and now: ….The Pan-African Village @ LEIMERT PARK………………!!
Events/Festivals
The Plaza
Home of the famous “Drum Church” that draws crowds of 100-300 on Sunday afternoons, it features 10-15 African drummers in a circle, dancers; sidewalks and the plaza filled with hats, jewelry, art vendors, children playing and a stage.
The Festivals
At least 7 huge festivals are held annually with something going on most every weekend: Kwanzaa Parade & Festival; Juneteenth Festival; Marcus Garvey Day Festival; Haitian Celebration Day; the Belizean Festival; Labor Day Weekend Jazz Festival; Festival of the Masks; and, al fresco dining, vendors, food trucks…. Whew!!
On every block there is usually some nighttime entertainment, book signing, lecture, martial arts demonstration, classes, plays and so on.
The Theatre
A $31M renovation of the historic, breathtakingly beautiful art deco 750-seat Vision Theatre has re-opened as a venue for major productions, plays and concerts.
Performance Sites
The World Stage-- Master artists perform day and night—many stay to teachThe Fernando Pullum Community Arts Center—renown teacher, free classes; Jazz Band From Jazz to Hip Hop-- Regency West, Barbara Morrison’s PAC, Ora’s, Kaos….
MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS
Entertaining, Educational, Exciting, Variety and Fun for All Ages!!
Museum of Ancient African/Black Civilizations
Sumerian, Egyptian, Olmecs, China, Americas, Hawaii, Brazil–global depictions, meetings/lectures, receptionsMuseums of the Caribbean
Jamaica, Haiti, Martinique, St. Lucia, Belize, Garifuna...A Beautiful 4-story Conference Center
Conventions, banquet halls, fine dining, shopsThe Legacy Music Museum (in the Conference Ctr)
Blues, Rock and Roll, Hip Hop–all musical genresPrimary focus on California personalities
Museum of Struggles and Atonement
Tulsa, Rosewood, Wilmington; Our on-going Maafa Enslavement, Prisons, Trail of Tears, drugs, AFSAInventors, Scholars, Pan-Africanist Leaders
Inventions; Patriotism, Tuskegee Airmen, all warsP-A Arts Culture & Entertainment Academy
Studios, Films; theatre school, fashion; certifications Rehearsal rooms, recording studios, etc.Pan-African Trade and Promotions Center
Displays of countries’ assets and sites, travel desksNew Orleans Heritage Club
Atmosphere of same; Stage, Dance floor; a film setA Children's Fun & Educational Center w Cafe
Outdoor & indoor space; youth museums–all youth run Chuck E cheese-type fun place; a Youth CenterAnd, don’t forget the many Festivals!