You will want to get there early to take in not just all the great programming being produced in collaboration between sponsors Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., but Taste of Soul is also a chance to snack on the region’s best soul food (and for free).
Now, I am not suggesting you starve yourself to indulge in the joys of mac and cheese chased by a piece of chicken swimming in Red Hot sauce. Rather, if you pace yourself throughout the afternoon, the reward is an opportunity to learn from the cultural lectures conducted by local authors and historians and see fine art as you listen to a range of music from local musicians.
The musical performances are always a hit. This year’s lineup include Sweet Willie Singleton, Nola Adé, In the Tradition, and Asamu Johnson. Slam poetry artist Fable the Poet and other local spoken word artists will be performing throughout the afternoon.
There even will be a moving first -person look at the impact of the black barbershop from Daniel Groce, who will share his experiences listening, working and growing up in his father's barbershop on Grandville Avenue in the 1950s.
And it would not be Taste of Soul without fun family activities for children include an opportunity to create an African necklace, color a jazz poster, or assemble a colorful Kente cloth placemat to take home with you.
Admission: Free
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