Savannah Honors Painful Past at Weeping Time African Unity Festival

7th annual event celebrates Black culture, community, and entrepreneurship

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The 7th annual Weeping Time African Unity Festival in Savannah, Georgia honored the city's history while celebrating Black culture, community, and local businesses. The event commemorates the 'Weeping Time,' the largest single sale of enslaved people in U.S. history, which occurred in Savannah in 1859. Organizers say the festival aims to remember this painful past while using it to create economic opportunities and uplift the community today.

Why it matters

Savannah has a complex history rooted in slavery and racial injustice. The Weeping Time African Unity Festival provides an opportunity for the community to reckon with this history in a meaningful way, while also showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of Savannah's Black residents and businesses.

The details

The festival featured Black-owned vendors, music, food, and local talent. Organizer Shyann Brantley said planning begins months in advance, typically starting in November. Vendor Sierra L. Middleton, owner of Royal Tasty Plates, said participating is especially meaningful because of the event's focus on celebrating African American culture and history.

  • The 7th annual Weeping Time African Unity Festival took place on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • The festival commemorates the 'Weeping Time,' the largest single sale of enslaved people in U.S. history, which occurred in Savannah on March 2-3, 1859.

The players

Shyann Brantley

The organizer of the Weeping Time African Unity Festival.

Sierra L. Middleton

The owner of Royal Tasty Plates, a vendor at the festival.

Geoffrey Alls

A first-time attendee of the festival.

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What they’re saying

“That's our history, that's our roots — that's something we cannot forget.”

— Shyann Brantley, Festival Organizer (wjcl.com)

“To be a part of this and to celebrate our culture, African American history — it's unparalleled.”

— Sierra L. Middleton, Owner, Royal Tasty Plates (wjcl.com)

“When you are in the birthplace of an area that has been built on struggle and blood, to see how we've overcome the struggles we've faced in this community is always rejoicing. I'll come back every year, of course.”

— Geoffrey Alls (wjcl.com)

What’s next

Organizers plan to continue the Weeping Time African Unity Festival annually to honor Savannah's history and support the local Black community.

The takeaway

The Weeping Time African Unity Festival demonstrates how a community can reckon with a painful past by transforming it into a celebration of resilience, culture, and economic empowerment. This event serves as a model for other cities grappling with difficult histories.