When Florida gained statehood in 1845, more than half the 70,000 population were African slaves. In the years after the Civil War, many freed slaves relocated in the Gainesville area in the Pleasant Street development, which became a thriving neighborhood. Each year, both the city and county governments issue proclamations hailing the festival, produced by the Cultural Arts Coalition. Thousands of people come to the festival, bringing their buying power, and taking away a new perception of the neighborhood. In 1999, the festival featured local artists, as well as artists from Florida, Georgia, and from Senegal.
Vendors show and sell jewelry, wood carvings, clothing, paintings, and food.
The festival provides live performances of music and dance.