LITTLE ROCK – Sept. 21, 2024—The Dunbar Historic Neighborhood Association (DHNA) will host its 10th annual Paul Laurence Dunbar Community Festival (PLDCF) on Oct. 5 in the downtown historic district, which has birthed dozens of Black American icons in politics, sports, education, music, culture, arts and entertainment, and many other professions.

This year’s festival theme is “Rebirthing Unity: A Legacy of Love.” The all-day (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) event will occur at the Dunbar Community Center at 1001 W. 16th Street. The historic district is anchored at the northern end by the Dunbar Middle School campus and extends south along South Cross and Ringo Streets.

The festival will begin with a morning walk at 7 a.m. at Philander Smith University, one of the district’s two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Walkers will stroll through the historic district, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, and will end at the community center, where breakfast will be served.

For more than a century, residents of the Dunbar community have included civil rights attorneys Scipio A. Jones, businessmen Mifflin Gibbs and Mosaic Templars founder John E. Bush, community activists and educators Daisy L. Bates and Sue Cowan Williams, healthcare and medical pioneers Dr. John Thornton and Dr. Fred T. Jones Sr., Tuskegee airman Milton Crenshaw, and classical composers Florence Price and William Grant Still.

This year’s event will also feature special historical presentations spotlighting the community history makers. That event will be sponsored by the Division of Arkansas Heritage

“Dunbar was and is a place where any dream is possible,” said DHNA Executive Director Angel Burt. “Each year, we host this fall festival to spotlight Dunbar’s history and legacy, present potential, and bright future. Join us for a day filled with music, history, and unity as we celebrate the legacy that continues to shape our community.”

Below are other highlights of the downtown festival:

• Musical Performances: Enjoy the talents of Rodney Block (trumpeter) Collectives and Michael Eubanks (saxophonist), who will bring their dynamic sounds to the festival.
• Battle of the Bands: High school bands from Central Arkansas will compete in a musical showdown, showcasing the energy and creativity of our youth. Gospel Extravaganza: Local church choirs will perform in a celebration of unity, faith, and community spirit.
• Youth Activities: In addition to educational and interactive sessions, the festival will feature amusement park rides, face painting, and a Kids’ Zone, ensuring a fun-filled experience for the whole family.
• Historical Tent: Discover the stories of influential figures from the Dunbar District who have shaped Little Rock’s legacy.
• Vendor Market: Local artisans, food trucks, and community resources will offer various goods and services, reflecting the district’s diversity and entrepreneurship. This event brings together all generations to celebrate our community’s unity, love, and progress.
• Special Guests and Performers: In addition to our exciting performances by Rodney Block Collectives and Michael Eubanks, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott will appear to share his support for the festival’s mission. Other local leaders and community advocates will also attend as special guests.