Charleston Celebrates 40 Years of MOJA Arts Festival
Charleston was buzzing last week as the MOJA Arts Festival celebrated its 40th anniversary, bringing a vibrant splash of African-American and Caribbean culture to the heart of downtown. Held from September 28 to October 6, 2024, this year’s festival was filled with music, dance, food, and art, transforming King Street into a lively playground for residents and visitors alike.
The Block Party Vibe
The festivities kicked into high gear on Wednesday, October 2, with a massive block party on King Street that attracted hundreds of people, eager to engage with the fun and celebratory atmosphere. From the moment you stepped onto the street, the energy was palpable. Deninufay African Drum and Dance group took center stage, captivating crowds with their vibrant rhythms and impressive dance moves. The beat was infectious, leading many — including couples like Tara Frazier and her boyfriend Danny Fulton — to hit the dance floor and sway to the music.
The performances didn’t stop there. The popular local group BlackNoyze paid tribute to the legendary Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly, which had everyone tapping their feet and singing along. Among the audience was Fred Walker, who enjoyed the show with his 9-year-old daughter, Raquel. “This is great for our community! The music, the food, the vibe — it all feels like home,” Fred said, his eyes sparkling as he pointed to the dancing kids around him.
Culinary Delights
No festival is complete without delicious food, and this year’s MOJA Arts Festival hit the mark. The food trucks lined up on the street offered a feast for the senses. Waffle Sensations drew a long queue as patrons clamored for their tasty creations. Meanwhile, Vibrant Alkaline Vegan Meals, helmed by the talented Shanise Williams and Cheryl Gibbs-Green, showcased healthy, mouth-watering soul food, impressing even the most steadfast meat lovers in the crowd.
“We believe in making soul food that loves your body,” Shanise explained while preparing a fresh batch of their signature dishes. The enthusiastic response from festival-goers was a testament to their success in blending flavor with health.
Theatre and Arts
As part of the festival, the Simons Center for the Arts played host to theatrical performances, including the touching play Home by Samm-Art Williams. The audience was moved by the poignant storytelling, demonstrating the depth of talent present in Charleston’s arts scene. Attendees filled the black box theatre, visibly absorbed in the performance, which speaks volumes about the festival’s role in promoting local artists.
Artistic Collaborations
Another highlight included a creative collaboration presented at the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art. A recreation of New Orleans artist Demond Melancon‘s studio was on display, providing a unique insight into the artistic process, firmly tying in with the festival’s mission to celebrate culture and creativity.
Looking Ahead
As the festival wraps up its landmark 40th year, the energy and enthusiasm generated this time are sparking conversations about the future. Artistic Director Charlton Singleton shared his vision of enhancing community engagement and expanding the festival’s reach. “We aim not just to celebrate our history but to inspire future generations through arts and culture,” he said, leaving everyone looking forward to what’s in store for next year.
With gentle winds and clear skies, visitors enjoyed perfect weather throughout the festival days, with highs reaching around 77°F. As the sun set, bringing a cozy chill of about 57°F in the evenings, the warmth of community spirit shone brightly, making this year’s MOJA Arts Festival an unforgettable experience for all.
