On The Reel Film Fest’ and Pop-Up Market

The Black Artist Collective will host On The Reel Film Fest’ and Pop-Up Market Saturday, June 19, at the Syracuse Inner Harbor. The one-day event will include an outdoor screening of “The Wiz,” a performance by KJ and Lolo, food trucks, over 20 local Black-owned business vendors and a family arts activity tent.  This event is FREE and OPEN to all.

“The Wiz,” an adaptation of the groundbreaking Broadway musical — itself a retelling of L. Frank Baum’s classic 1900 children’s fantasy “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, ” is firmly rooted in and celebrates Black culture. The iconic cast, including Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Lena Horne, Nipsey Russell, Mabel King, and Richard Pryor; coupled with the weaving together of gospel, blues, soul, and R&B with narratives of the Black experience, has made this film a must-watch rite of passage for many in the Black community.

Presented in partnership with The Creators Lounge, Cafe Sankofa Cooperative, Community Folk Art Center (CFAC) and the city of Syracuse: Ignite Juneteenth initiative; On The Reel Film Fest’ and Pop-Up Market is a “brand new day” celebration of the emancipation of the Black community’s enslaved ancestors from chattel slavery and recognition of perseverance in the face of innumerable struggles during the year-long global pandemic.

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR EVENT ENTRY: As a kid-friendly, dry event, no alcohol will not be allowed on-site. Freedom Services Security will check coolers upon entry. Following current Syracuse Parks and Recreation mandates, proof of vaccination is required for admittance without masks. Attendees are encouraged to bring or save a screenshot of their COVID-19 vaccination card(s). Upon clearance by event organizers, every attendee will receive a bracelet for entry.