LYNCHBURG UNITY WALK & CELEBRATION
Get ready to celebrate! The Lynchburg Area Youth Sports Initiative (LAYSi) is thrilled to invite the community to the Annual Unity Walk & Celebration on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in Downtown Lynchburg.
This year's celebration will focus on "African Americans and Labor," honoring the legacy of Black workers who have shaped our nation. Join us for a day of fun, education, and community as we walk together and celebrate our shared history.
The block-party style celebration and walk will begin and end at the roundabout at 5th and Federal Streets, featuring a special stop at Old City Cemetery for a historical reenactment and storytelling session where participants will learn more about Lottie Payne Stratton, also known as Miss Boonie, as portrayed by Lynchburg local and talented actress, Temika Younger.
"Miss Boonie reminds me of my grandmother. My grandma loved children and fostered over 100 children in her home. Like Miss Boonie, children were always welcome at my granny's house. I appreciate the opportunity to bring light to her story again as her precious spirit lives on." Younger shared in a recent interview, "I always enjoy helping to continue the legacy of the many great African Americans who were prominent in this area."
Here's what you can expect:
A lively block party: Enjoy live music by DJ MADLAD, refreshments provided by The Yard on 5th Restaurant, and engaging educational activities for all ages.
Family fun for everyone: Games, activities, exciting giveaways, and raffles with over $2000 in prizes!
Local performers: Watch local dance groups showcase their skills.
Inspiring guest speakers: Gain insights into local history and culture.
A chance to connect: Meet and greet with local leaders, neighbors, and fellow community members.
Event festivities will begin and end at the roundabout at 5th and Federal Streets. The walk will kick off at 11 a.m. Activities will continue until 1pm.
Event Highlights:
Free Hot Cocoa & Refreshments: Provided by The Yard on 5th Restaurant
Engaging Educational Activities: Learn about local history
Family Fun: Enjoy games and activities for all ages
A Block Party: Featuring lively music by DJ MADLAD
Talented Performances: Watch local dance groups showcase their skills
Guest Speakers: Gain insights into local history and culture
Meet & Greet: Connect with local leaders
Exciting Giveaways & Raffles: Over $2000 in prizes!*
*participants must be present to win
Featured Entertainment and Special Guests:
Vocal Performance by Harrison Reed
Historical Reenactment by Temika Younger
Dance Performance with Kuumba Dance directed by Sheron White Carter
We're Looking for Vendors!
Interested vendors can CLICK HERE to complete the vendor application and join the celebration.
