On Saturday, September 10 th , the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute (LHPAI) celebrated its 50th anniversary of Black excellence and cultural expression. The four-hour block party event highlighted the work, contributions, and achievements that artists and community members have cultivated over the last 50 years in the Central District community – and beyond.

The celebration brought in a series of dynamic performances from artists and musicians, including Black Stax, Arami Walker, Marco Farroni, DJ TOPSPIN, Josephine Howell, LiaPlusSum, DJ Yaddy, 2022 Teen Summer Musical, the Anzanga Marimba Ensemble, and the Northwest African American Museum’s African American Cultural Ensemble.

The event also included a vast collective of speakers with deep roots and involvement with LHPAI, including presenters Isiah Anderson Jr., Steve Sneed, Vivian Phillips, Tee Dennard and Kibibi Monie. Mayor Bruce Harrell, Seattle Parks Deputy Superintendent Christopher Williams, and ARTS Acting Director Royal Alley-Barnes, and ARTE NOIR Founder, Vivian Phillips, were also in attendance.

One night prior, the LHPAI decided to move a portion of the block party event indoors to the main floor due to poor air quality from surrounding forest fires, where space was made to house a variety of organization booths, refreshments, and a stage for musical performances.

Although the change was impromptu, the turnout, as well as the energy of residents, community members, and artists, was significant throughout.