The 24th annual Hot Corner Festival is taking place this weekend and will celebrate Black heritage and community in Athens.
In the early 20th century, the corner of West Washington and North Hull Streets became known as Hot Corner, the hub of commerce for the Black community in Athens. It was centered on the Morton Theater, built in 1910 by Pink Morton. The Hot Corner Association is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the history of this area.
On Saturday, the association will hold the Hot Corner Celebration and Soul Food Feast at the intersection of Washington and Hull from 11 am to 10 pm.
The family-friendly, free-to-enter festival will feature barbecue and soul food from Athens vendors, music, merchandise, and kids’ entertainment. The block-party style event will feature several MC’s, including Minister Clarence Smith, Barbara “Lady B” Sims, and Montu Miller with DJ Chief Rocka.