Greek Unity in Action: The Ultimate Black Greek Picnics Across America

The tradition of Black Greek Picnics provides an opportunity for members of the Divine Nine (Phi Beta Sigma, Zeta Phi Beta, Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Sigma Gamma Rho, and Iota Phi Theta) to fellowship with one another outside the boundaries of a college campus. While these events are catered toward Black Greek-letter organizations, the annual weekend gatherings also attract college students, young alums, and partygoers looking for the opportunity to travel, socialize among old and new friends, and celebrate the essence of Black joy and Black pride!

The earliest Black Greek Picnic dates back to the mid-1970s in Philadelphia. With the popularity of Black Greek Picnics expanding well into the 21st century, the series of picnics have grown from one day of festivities to a weekend of events that attract hundreds of thousands of participants, including celebrity appearances and performances. What makes these picnics the ultimate experience? It’s the family reunion and homecoming experience wrapped into one epic weekend! The schedule is catered to college students, graduates, and young adults, including day parties, a step show, stroll competitions, job fairs, artist performances, concerts, cookout/tailgate food, vendors, and networking opportunities galore!

The best part about Greek Picnic weekends is the opportunity to travel and explore a city! During the summer, you may be able to pair your trip with a concert, festival, or other major event. Take a look at the 2023 schedule and recommended attractions in each city that you can enjoy during your stay!

Black Greek Picnics

Mississippi Greek Weekend

The Mississippi Greek Weekend, also known as Mississippi’s Greatest Weekend, is an annual event typically held in May, dedicated to highlighting the significant contributions of the Magnolia state. This event is organized in collaboration with MS MOVE Inc., a non-profit organization striving to build bridges between communities and provide resources to empower people in Mississippi.

The weekend includes various activities, such as the Landmass Creative Conference, a platform designed for creative professionals to connect, collaborate, and showcase their work. The event also offers a Vendor Exhibition, allowing entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners to display their products and services.

The Mississippi Greek Weekend is a celebration and a movement towards creating positive change and improving the quality of life for all Mississippians through education, health, housing, and economic development initiatives.

The Beach

Gulfport, Mississippi, is a captivating coastal city that combines the best of nature’s beauty with an array of exciting entertainment choices. The city boasts a highly sought-after beach with pristine sands and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for unwinding or engaging in water-based activities.

Island View Casino Resort

Visiting the Island View Casino Resort is an absolute must for those seeking a touch of excitement. Renowned as one of the top-rated casinos in the United States, this establishment offers a wide selection of gaming options, ranging from thrilling slot machines to classic table games. What sets it apart is the smoke-free Beach View Casino, ensuring a comfortable environment for all visitors. Additionally, the resort boasts an array of amenities, such as diverse dining options, live entertainment, and a rejuvenating spa experience.

Atlanta Greek Picnic

Atlanta Greek Picnic is a vibrant and exciting event that brings together members of the Greek community from all over the country. It’s renowned as the biggest and best Greek weekend in the United States, typically in June.

The event is a celebration of Greek life and culture, featuring a variety of activities, performances, and opportunities for networking. Whether you’re a neo or an old-school Greek member, the Atlanta Greek Picnic is an event not to be missed.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, Georgia, is a significant site that commemorates the life and achievements of the civil rights leader. Visitors can walk in his footsteps, visit his birth home, and hear his voice in the church, where he moved hearts and minds. The park is a testament to King’s transformative role in the civil rights movement and continues to attract many national and international visitors.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights serves as a bridge that connects the history of the civil rights movement to the ongoing struggle for human rights worldwide. The center offers a variety of exhibitions and programs that inspire and educate visitors about the importance of equal dignity and justice. A typical visit lasts approximately 90 minutes to two hours, and the center is open from Tuesday to Sunday.

California Greek Weekend

California Greek Weekend, which typically takes place in June, is an annual event that brings together members of the historical Divine Nine Greek letter organizations for a weekend full of unity, networking, and community service. Held in sunny Los Angeles, this event provides a platform for undergraduates, graduates, and their families to connect with like-minded, college-educated individuals from across the nation and serves as a vacation getaway.

The weekend is organized by a team of Greek letter members dedicated to empowering the community, showcasing the positive aspects of Greek life, and making a significant impact locally. Whether you’re a member of a Greek letter organization or not, you’re invited to enjoy the food, drinks, laughs, and entertainment at the Cali Greek Picnic’s Back Outside event, which is part of the weekend’s activities.

The Underground Museum

The Underground Museum is a unique cultural gem in the heart of Los Angeles. Founded by the late artist Noah Davis, it serves as a platform for world-class art exhibitions, film screenings, and community events, all free of charge. The museum’s mission is to bring museum-quality art to diverse communities that may not have easy access to such works. It’s a place where art, culture, and community intersect, creating a vibrant and inclusive space for all.

Leimert Park

Just a stone’s throw away is Leimert Park, a neighborhood known for its strong African-American artistic presence and cultural significance. The area is home to various jazz clubs, theaters, and art galleries, making it a hub for creativity and cultural expression. With its iconic Vision Theatre, the Leimert Park Village is a focal point for African-American arts in Los Angeles. The Underground Museum and Leimert Park contribute to the rich tapestry of culture and art in Los Angeles.

Dallas Greek Picnic

Dallas Greek Picnic takes place every June. It is an event designed to unite members of the Divine 9 Greek organizations, primarily from the Southwest region of the United States. This highly anticipated gathering attracts over 3000 alums and college members, offering a platform for networking, making new acquaintances, and celebrating Greek fraternity and sorority culture.

The weekend is packed with exciting competitions such as the stroll/step competition, the Greek DJ showcase, and the Greek basketball competition. It serves as a grand reunion for Greek organization members and functions as a charitable event, raising awareness and support for a chosen charity each year. The Dallas Greek Picnic has become a significant community event in Dallas, drawing both seasoned and young participants from far and wide.

Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is a vibrant neighborhood in Dallas, Texas, known for its rich history and eclectic culture. Originally a hub for jazz and blues in the early 20th century, it has evolved into a hotspot for music, arts, and food. With its iconic murals, unique boutiques, and many restaurants and bars, Deep Ellum offers a distinct, lively atmosphere that reflects the creative spirit of Dallas. Whether you’re a music lover, foodie, or art enthusiast, Deep Ellum has something to offer for everyone.

African American Museum

The African American Museum in Dallas, Texas, is a unique institution in the Southwestern Region dedicated to preserving and showcasing African American artistic, cultural, and historical materials. It boasts one of the largest African American Folk Art collections in the United States.

The museum offers a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and public presentations that bring African American history, art, and culture to life. It also provides virtual visits, allowing classrooms to interact with museum scientists and their research. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or culture, the African American Museum offers a rich and immersive experience that celebrates the African American heritage.

Kansas City Greek Picnic

Kansas City Greek Picnic, also known as KCGP, is a vibrant and exciting event that brings together over 3,000 attendees annually from across the region. This event celebrates Greek life and culture, featuring over 35 small businesses and organizations that comprise the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC).

Attendees can expect a day filled with entertainment, education, and community building. The event also provides a platform for service and unity, all while promoting the local community. With various vendors to explore and plenty of water to keep you hydrated, Kansas City Greek Picnic promises a memorable experience for all.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, located at 1616 East 18th St, Kansas City, MO, is a rich repository of America’s baseball history, specifically focusing on the Negro Leagues. The museum offers a virtual tour and a variety of exhibitions that highlight the significant contributions of players who broke racial and cultural barriers in the sport. It’s a place to learn about the powerful stories of Negro Leagues Baseball players and their impact on the sport and society. The museum also offers a range of merchandise, allowing visitors to take a piece of this critical history home with them.

The American Jazz Museum

The American Jazz Museum, situated in the historic 18th and Vine Jazz District in Kansas City, Missouri, is the nation’s leading institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating American jazz. The museum houses exhibits of renowned jazz legends like Charlie Parker, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald. It also offers jazz instruction for middle and high school students interested in improving their skills. With a range of online resources, including a virtual tour and digital exhibits, the museum ensures that jazz lives on in the hearts and minds of its visitors.

Nashville Greek Picnic

Nashville Greek Picnic takes place in July. It is a vibrant celebration of Greek culture and community. Hosted at Cumberland Park and the Preston Hotel, the event offers a variety of activities and attractions. One of the highlights is the Stroll Off, a spirited competition with a grand prize of $500. Vendor booths are also available, allowing local businesses to showcase their products and services. Whether you’re a part of the Greek community or simply a fan of its rich culture, Nashville Greek Weekend promises an unforgettable experience.

Jefferson Street

Jefferson Street in Nashville, Tennessee, is a vibrant African American culture and history hub. Once the heart of Nashville’s jazz and blues scene, it’s home to two historically black universities, Fisk University and Tennessee State University. The street is renowned for its annual Jefferson Street Jazz & Blues Festival, which celebrates the area’s rich musical heritage.

Broadway Street

Broadway Street, on the other hand, is the pulsating artery of Nashville’s country music scene. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s lined with honky-tonk bars and live music venues, including the iconic Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame. The street is a lively mix of neon lights, music, and energy, making it a must-visit destination for country music lovers.

Texas Greek Picnic

Texas Greek Picnic, also known as the Nation’s Largest D9 Reunion, is an annual three-day event that brings together African American fraternities and sororities from across Texas. Scheduled for July, this grand gathering attracts thousands of students and alums who flock to Houston to enjoy great food, live music, and thrilling stepping competitions. It’s not just about entertainment, though. The event also provides a unique opportunity for Greek life members to reconnect and network with like-minded individuals.

Emancipation Park

Emancipation Park is a significant landmark with a rich history. It is the oldest park in Houston and Texas, and during the Jim Crow period, it was the only public park available to African-Americans in the area. The park was purchased in 1872 by Richard Allen, Richard Brock, Jack Yates, and Elias Dibble to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.

Over the years, the park has been a hub for Juneteenth celebrations, concerts, and musical performances. After significant renovations, the park features an indoor gymnasium, weight room, meeting rooms, outdoor basketball pavilion, sports fields, tennis courts, swimming pool, playground, and picnic areas.

Ensemble Theatre

The Ensemble Theatre is the largest African-American professional theatre company in the U.S. that produces plays in-house and owns its own facility. Founded by George Hawkins in 1976, the Ensemble Theatre started as a touring company rehearsing in a church basement.

The theatre now hosts three stages, including a main stage auditorium with seating for 200, an arena stage that seats 125, and a grand performance hall that accommodates 500 people. The Ensemble Theatre is committed to preserving African-American artistic expression and presents a repertoire of critically acclaimed dramas, comedies, and musicals each year.

Alabama Greek Picnic

The Alabama Greek Picnic is held in August. It is a highly anticipated event that brings together members of the Pan-Hellenic Council from across Alabama and beyond. This event, hosted in the vibrant city of Birmingham, is designed to foster unity, fellowship, and networking among its participants. The weekend includes various activities, including a major service project, day party, family fun, stroll competition, nightlife entertainment, and worship.

The ultimate goal of the Alabama Greek Picnic is to raise funds to support scholarship opportunities and the charitable efforts of the Alabama Greek Foundation. This event is not just for Alabamians but is set to become a favorite among members of all Black Greek Lettered Organizations nationwide.

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) is a cultural and educational research center part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Its mission is to enlighten each generation about civil and human rights by exploring our shared past and working together to build a better future. The BCRI promotes a comprehensive understanding of the significance of civil rights developments in Birmingham. It offers a variety of exhibits and events, and visitors often comment on the depth of knowledge they gain with each visit.

4th Avenue District

The 4th Avenue District in Birmingham, Alabama, is a historic area that has played a significant role in the city’s history and the United States at large. This district is home to various businesses, each with its unique story, but all contributing to the rich tapestry of the community. Notable establishments include Green Acres, a beloved restaurant serving the district since 1958, and Nelson Brothers Cafe, a gathering place for friends and family known for their frank sandwiches.

The district also houses the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama, a Masonic Lodge that was instrumental in the civil rights movement. Despite facing challenges, the 4th Avenue District remains an important facet of Birmingham, serving as a reminder of the city’s past and a beacon for its future.

New Orleans Greek Picnic

New Orleans Greek Picnic takes place in August. It is a vibrant celebration of Greek life and culture set against the city’s rich history and charm. This event brings together fraternity and sorority members from across the nation to engage in community service, networking, and fun-filled activities.

From step shows and picnics to educational forums and parties, the weekend is packed with events that foster unity, showcase the spirit of Greek organizations, and highlight the unique blend of cultures in New Orleans. It’s a weekend of camaraderie, culture, and community that you won’t want to miss!

The French Quarter

The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. It’s a vibrant area steeped in history and multicultural heritage, famed for its lively nightlife, colorful buildings, and the iconic Bourbon Street.

The French Quarter is renowned for its historic architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, displaying a mix of Spanish, French, Creole, and American styles. It’s a hub of music, food, and culture, where you can enjoy the sounds of jazz, taste Creole cuisine, and explore unique shops and art galleries.

The Quarter is also home to the famous Jackson Square and the stunning St. Louis Cathedral, making it a must-visit destination for anyone coming to New Orleans.

Treme Neighborhood

Treme, also known as Faubourg Tremé, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans, founded in the 1810s. It is important in the city’s history as the main neighborhood of its free people of color. It remains a vital center of African-American and Creole culture, particularly the modern brass band tradition. Treme is often referred to as the oldest Black neighborhood in the nation.

The neighborhood is located on the north side of the French Quarter. It is known for its rich cultural history, including Congo Square, where slaves would gather on Sundays to dance, a tradition that flourished until the United States took control. This square was also a significant place of business for slaves, enabling some to purchase their freedom from the sales of crafts and goods there.

Today, Treme continues to be a vibrant part of New Orleans, home to musicians, artists, and a diverse population. Despite the changes brought about by Hurricane Katrina and gentrification, Treme remains a testament to the resilience and enduring culture of New Orleans.

Washington DC Greek Picnic

The Washington DC Greek Picnic happens in August. It is a grand celebration of Black Greek Life, bringing together members of historically Black fraternities and sororities nationwide. This event, often called the ultimate Greek Picnic weekend, is a testament to these organizations’ enduring legacy and camaraderie. It’s a weekend of unity, tradition, and celebration showcasing Black Greek organizations’ vibrant spirit.

U Street

The U Street Corridor, also known as “Black Broadway,” is a vibrant neighborhood in Washington, DC, rich in African American history and culture. Once the heart of African American life in the city, it was home to many businesses, theaters, and jazz clubs during the early 20th century.

Today, it’s a bustling area with a mix of old and new – historic buildings, trendy restaurants, and music venues coexist, creating a unique cultural experience. The neighborhood is also known for its role in the civil rights movement, with the African American Civil War Memorial standing as a testament to the African American soldiers who fought in the Civil War.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), colloquially known as the Blacksonian, is a Smithsonian Institution museum located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Established in 2003 and opened in 2016, it is the world’s largest museum dedicated to African-American history and culture.

The museum houses more than 40,000 objects, though only about 3,500 items are on display. The 350,000-square-foot building, with its distinctive three-part corona design inspired by a crown used in Yoruba culture, has won critical praise. The museum’s exhibits span the vast sweep of the African-American experience in the United States, from the dark corners of history to the heights of cultural achievement.

Las Vegas Greek Picnic

Las Vegas Greek Picnic will take place in September. This grand event is a vibrant celebration of Greek life, bringing together members of the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities for a weekend filled with camaraderie, entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. From lively picnics and parties to networking events, the Las Vegas Greek Picnic is a testament to the enduring spirit and unity of the Greek community.

Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip, often called “The Strip,” is a stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard in Clark County, Nevada, known for its concentration of resort hotels and casinos. It’s a 4.2-mile (6.8 km) stretch internationally recognized for its vibrant display of lights, stunning architecture, and entertainment options. From iconic casinos like the Bellagio and the Venetian to spectacular shows and events, the Strip is the heart of Las Vegas, offering an experience full of excitement and glamour.

Welcome to Fabolous Las Vegas Sign

The iconic “Welcome to Fabolous Las Vegas” sign symbolizes the city’s excitement and allure. Located on the famous Las Vegas Strip, it beckons visitors with its neon lights and bold design. This iconic landmark has welcomed countless travelers, encapsulating the spirit of adventure and entertainment that defines Las Vegas.

Travel Resources

CityPass

Top attractions may be explored quickly and affordably with CityPass in major cities worldwide. With a CityPass, you may affordably enter a carefully chosen selection of popular sites, museums, and events. A CityPass can save you time and money because it typically offers skip-the-line advantages and significant savings over purchasing individual tickets. Whether visiting a major city or a cultural hub, CityPass streamlines your sightseeing experience by allowing you to maximize your time in the city by entering multiple attractions with a single pass.

TripAdvisor

The popular website TripAdvisor is a veritable informational gold mine for tourists. TripAdvisor is an excellent resource if you seek suggestions or in-depth information about the locations mentioned in this article. TripAdvisor provides a plethora of information about a variety of locations across the world, from the frantic streets of big cities to the tranquil beaches of exotic locales.