Baltimore, MD (June 18, 2007) - Mayor Sheila Dixon joined festival organizers and city leaders to announce events and activities at the annual African American Heritage Festival in Baltimore. The festival will take place June 27-29, 2008, at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

The Mayor was joined by City Council President Stephanie Rawlings Blake, Festival Chairman LaRian Finney, and representatives from event sponsors McDonalds, State Farm, E-Mortgage, and the Baltimore Area Convention and Visitors Association.

"The African American Heritage Festival is a must-see event that entertains, enlightens, and inspires visitors of all ages year after year," said Mayor Sheila Dixon. "Even better, the festival promotes health by offering on-sight screenings and fitness programming."

The African American Heritage Festival will feature educational and cultural exhibits, ethnic foods, and interactive children's activities. Nationally renowned entertainers are slated to perform. Headliners this year include: Fantasia, Mario, Chuck Brown, Fertile Ground, Kindred, and Bilal.

A returning component to the Festival this year will be the Health Village, which offers screenings for prostate cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol, as well as immunizations, weight consultations, and health and fitness training.

The new Empowerment Village offers information about financial planning, identity theft, mortgages, home ownership, home improvement, re-entry into the workforce, and obtaining small business resources.

The Arts, History and Education Pavilion showcases African American history through energetic exhibitions, performing arts and activities. Attendees will also have the opportunity to trace their family origins through genetic testing.

Admission to the festival is free of charge, but attendees will be asked to help the Heritage Foundation to "Keep the Festival Alive" by making a donation at the entrances.