The 2026 African American Heritage & Cultural Celebration (AAHCC) will reconnect families and institutions, create meaningful spaces for youth engagement and artistic expression, foster civic pride, and elevate the stories that have shaped Cleveland's African American identity across generations. The 2026 AAHCC continues a long tradition of elevating culture while investing in Cleveland's future. The event will feature a dynamic mix of performances, historical exhibitions, oral history reflections, youth programming, artisan vendors, and community dialogue.
Come experience the return of a legacy as we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Kevin "MC Chill" Heard becoming Cleveland's first national rap recording artist and the first non-New York solo rap act to chart nationally.
Main Stage Entertainment includes:
MC Chill & Friends
Carlos Jones - and the P.L.U.S. Band
Lord Jazz
Mix Master Ice
Ric Robinson
The Robeson Singers
Full Event Schedule will be announced soon.
The event is FREE and open to ALL. Tickets are limited and advance registration is required.
Additional activities include:
Cultural Marketplace
Food + Vendors
Children's Village
Exhibits & Living History
Poetry Slam
Genealogy & Family History
Unlimited rides on Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel
Access to all galleries and exhibits at the Cleveland History Center
Sponsorship Opportunities are now available.
We are also now accepting individual donations in support of this celebration. All names will be listed on event day!
Thank you to our sponsors.
Presenting Sponsor:
This event is presented in partnership with RLRIII & Associates:
Robert L. Render, Barbara Brown, Rhonda Crowder, Vicki Dansby, and Kevin "Chill" Heard.
