January brings lively happenings at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh. One of the museum’s largest events, the Seventh Annual African American Cultural Celebration, takes place Jan. 26. This festival for all ages will be filled with music, artists, storytellers, cooking demonstrations and more. Boo Hanks, the Allen Boys, Frank Barrow and the jazz group R-EFFECT will join more than 70 presenters and exhibitors. Come learn about the state’s African American heritage and culture.
On Jan. 13, feel the spirit and energy of pure gospel music when Raleigh’s own Capital City Five performs. Bring the kids to special programs for fun learning experiences, or drop by for a lunchtime program about Yates Mill. All programs are free, and parking is free on weekends.
PROGRAMS
*History Corner: We Can Do It!
Wednesday, Jan. 2
10 a.m.
Ages 5-9 with adult
To register, call 919-807-7992.
What do saving rubber and planting gardens have to do with World War II? Discover how children in the 1940s contributed to the war effort through scrap drives, rationing and Victory gardens. The program is presented with Cameron Village Regional Library.
*Time for Tots: North Carolina Firsts
Tuesday, Jan. 8, or Tuesday, Jan. 15
10 a.m.
Ages 3-5 with adult
To register, call 919-807-7992.
Start the first of the year by learning about some Tar Heel firsts. Then make a first-rate craft to take home!
History à la Carte: Saving Yates Mill
Wednesday, Jan. 9
12:10 p.m.
Bring your lunch; beverages provided.
Rebeccah J. W. Cope, Manager, Historic Yates Mill County Park
Established around 1756, Yates Mill has survived wars, hurricanes, neglect and the test of time. Now fully restored, the mill is the centerpiece of a 174-acre park. Learn about the mill’s long and enduring history.
*The Capital City Five
Sunday, Jan. 13
3 p.m.
The Capital City Five has been performing a capella spiritual and gospel singing for more than 65 years. Let the harmonies of this soulful group soothe and uplift you. PineCone co-sponsors the performance.
*Seventh Annual African American Cultural Celebration
Saturday, Jan. 26
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Don’t miss this exciting day of activities, crafts, music, entertainment and foods in celebration of the state’s African American heritage and culture. Come move to the rhythm of musicians and steppers, watch craftspeople at work, sample delicious foods, make traditional crafts and games, and much more.
This event is supported by United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, who in turn receives support from the N.C. Arts Council with funding from the state of North Carolina and the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.
For more information about the museum, call 919-807-7900 or visit ncmuseumofhistory.org.
* programs of interest to children or families
The N.C. Museum of History’s hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Through June 2008, the museum will be open on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is part of the Division of State History Museums, Office of Archives and History, an agency of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources. The department’s Web site is www.ncculture.com.