Madam Walker Legacy Fest block party celebrates Black excellence with food, music, and community

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A big weekend is on the books for the annual Madam Walker Legacy Center as they host their annual Legacy Fest. 

Festivities kicked off Friday night with a performance by Teddy Riley, Guy 2.0 & Friends. Saturday celebrations continue with a free block party along Indiana Avenue.

Vendors will pack the avenue during the block party, along with live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.

The block party runs from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Legacy Fest shines a spotlight on music, culture, community, and the enduring legacy of Black entrepreneurship and artistry. 

This year’s Fest also highlights the 99th anniversary of the iconic Walker Theatre, a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage. 

I asked Kristian Little Stricklen, the president and CEO of the Madam Walker Legacy Center, about why they’ve continued to grow Legacy Fest. She credits the community for the festival’s expansion.

“The community support and feedback that we got, it’s why we continue to do it – year over year over year,” she said. “We want to make sure that we’re doing what we’re supposed to, right? To uplift Madam Walker’s legacy.”

Indiana Avenue will be closed between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Blackford streets to accommodate community festivities.

The Madam Walker Theatre anticipates a big year next year as it prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary.