African-American Heritage Picnic, Parade This Weekend

The 25th annual African American Heritage picnic and parade in Joliet is this weekend.

Saturday picnic events start at 10 a.m. and run through 6:30 p.m. at Nowell Park, 5 Mills Road, Joliet.

Sponsored by Unity Community Development Corp., Saturday events include a vendor expo, recipe sharing, African-American creative arts, live entertainment, free health and wellness screenings, and voter registration. (The event was formerly known as the Black Pride Picnic and Parade.)

It's a chance to "meet new friends in the community," according to the group's Web site, unitycdc.org/blackpridejoliet.html. "All are invited to participate in these activities and promote 'building our future with a spirit of selfless pride.'” 

The parade steps off at 2:45 p.m. Sunday in downtown Joliet. It's a "distinct presentation of authentic African-American cultures, showcasing African-American traditions, history and inspirations," the Web site said. 

The parade starts at Benton and Chicago streets, travels south to Jefferson Street, east to Scott Street and north to Cass Street. Announcers and the judges' stage will be set up in front of the Rialto Square Theatre on Chicago Street.

This year's parade grand marshal is Dr. Charles Coleman, superintendent of Joliet School District 86.