Royal Roots and Rhythms Brings African Culture, Food and Dance to Utica

UTICA, N.Y. — Music, dance, colorful fashions, and the enticing aromas of food filled Hanna Park on Saturday, Aug. 29, as Utica Royalties presented its Royal Roots & Rhythms Festival, a vibrant celebration of African heritage, the African diaspora, youth, and community. Attendees were immersed in an afternoon filled with cultural richness, highlighted by a special homage to the African homeland performed by the Utica Royalties dance troupe. A principal dancer, adorned in traditional-inspired tribal garb, led a captivating ceremonial performance that depicted the cycle of life. This mesmerizing display, showcasing themes of birth, life, and death, utilized movement and dance to honor cultural traditions, effectively connecting young performers with their rich heritage and deep-rooted customs. Royal Roots & Rhythms Brings African Culture.

Royal Roots & Rhythms Brings African Culture to Utica, showcasing the beauty of African traditions through music, dance, and food.

The celebration of the African diaspora continued with Hilda Jordan Bailey Y Cultural Bilingual Latin Dance and Salsa, an exhilarating experience that brought festivalgoers to their feet to enjoy the infectious rhythms of merengue, bachata, and salsa. The atmosphere was electric, enhanced by the vibrant music of TShow Starboy, who kept the energy high and the crowd engaged. The festival marketplace served as a vibrant window into African culture, featuring sculptured figures, colorful African dashikis, exquisite jewelry, and an array of other African-inspired merchandise available for purchase. Visitors eagerly browsed through both traditional and contemporary items, each celebrating the beauty and craftsmanship of African heritage. The delightful aromas of food wafted through Hanna Park as Nakera Catering showcased festival boxes filled with authentic flavors from the Motherland, while Yummies Galore delighted attendees with an assortment of desserts and confectionery treats. Life Is Lit Company, founded by a visionary Young Entrepreneurs Academy alumna, offered its highly sought-after Spirit Is Mint peppermint-scented candles, adding a touch of local entrepreneurial spirit to the festivities. Additionally, history and literature found representation at the festival. A private collection from Mike Parker featured significant Aboriginal projectile points from New York State, providing a fascinating glimpse into local history. Meanwhile, author Dr. Zachary Willis showcased his insightful books on relationships and personal development, including titles like Truth Over Lies: Manhood Restored, Womanhood Reclaimed, and The Missing Link in Marriage: Self-Awareness and its companion workbook, making valuable resources accessible to festival attendees.

The festival seamlessly paired cultural celebration with opportunities for personal and community wellness. On Point for College provided essential information on college admissions, financial aid, vocational training, and various career pathways, empowering attendees to consider their futures. Health was also a priority, as visitors could receive complimentary blood-pressure screenings, nutritional information, and access to other vital community resources aimed at promoting wellness. “Royal Roots & Rhythms gives our young people an opportunity to celebrate where they come from while inviting the community to learn and celebrate with us,” said Hawa Peters, the passionate founder and executive director of Utica Royalties. “When young people understand their roots, they carry that pride and knowledge into the future.” Supported by dedicated community partners and sponsors, including Project RISE and Chobani, the festival exemplified Utica Royalties’ unwavering commitment to empowering young people through mentorship, cultural appreciation, education, and leadership development. The organization remains dedicated to showcasing its talented young performers, with an upcoming appearance scheduled at the prestigious Great New York State Fair, further extending their reach and influence.

About Utica Royalties
Utica Royalties, Inc. provides youth programs centered on mentorship, leadership development, arts, culture, education, wellness and community engagement. For more information, visit the Utica Royalties website⁠

As the festival drew to a close, attendees reflected on the importance of such cultural events in fostering community ties and understanding diverse backgrounds. The interactions between different demographic groups created a shared space for dialogue and connection, reinforcing the idea that cultural appreciation is essential in today’s global society. Organizers expressed their hopes for future festivals, envisioning even greater participation and engagement from the community, as they aim to expand the scope of their programming to include more interactive workshops, performances, and educational sessions that delve deeper into the rich tapestry of African cultures.

About Utica Royalties
Utica Royalties, Inc. is dedicated to providing youth programs centered around mentorship, leadership development, arts, culture, education, wellness, and community engagement, making it a pivotal force in the local community. For more information, visit the Utica Royalties website⁠ and discover how you can get involved in supporting their mission to empower the next generation. Join us in celebrating the rich cultural heritage that is encapsulated in events like the Royal Roots & Rhythms Festival, which not only honors the past but also paves the way for a brighter future for all.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Dawn LaGuerre, Media & Publicity
Utica Royalties, Inc.
laguerremedia@gmail.com | 315-266-7548
Hawa Peters, Founder & Executive Director
Utica Royalties, Inc.