On Sunday, February 10, BRAVE Communities, a local Austin nonprofit, is bringing the second annual BRAVE Fest to The Belmont from 2:00 to 8:00 pm. to celebrate cultures including time-relevant holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Lunar New Year (Year of the Pig), Mexican Constitution Day, and Black History Month.

In April 2018, BRAVE Communities held its first BRAVE Fest in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, and the 50th anniversary of his assassination. The event was held at Spiderhouse Lounge and saw over 300 attendees.

BRAVE Fest will feature children’s games and activities with the Anti-Defamation League, a silent auction, representation from the Austin nonprofit and social business communities, and more. All event proceeds will go to support BRAVE programs in 2019, including sending area youths to cultural and educational freedom museums in Alabama. The following artists and groups are set to perform: CoMeTrY, Greater Mt. Zion Creative Ministries, Mia Garcia, Agni Bollywood Dance, Bavu Blakes, and Afrofreque.

Notably, Bavu Blakes was recently appointed as the AISD Cultural Proficiency and Inclusiveness Specialist. He will be leading educators in reflecting on their cultural identities and views in order to recognize and honor differences. Mia Garcia, the 11-year old musical sensation, is the youngest person to win a Tejano Music Award after she took home the Best New Female trophy last November. BRAVE is excited and proud to include these champions and showcase their musical talents at BRAVE Fest.

Tickets are $25 per adult, $10 per student, and free for children 6 and under. Event details and tickets can be found at bravefest19.eventbrite.com.