Martin R. Delany Fest to honor Pittsburgh's African-American pioneer in Market Square this weekend

PITTSBURGH — This weekend, the third annual Martin R. Delany Fest will make its way to Market Square, celebrating the historic African-American abolitionist, doctor, soldier and journalist.

Delany Fest serves as Pittsburgh’s Juneteenth and Community Awareness days. The two-day event will designate time to honor Pittsburgh’s pioneers in the African-American community with a handful of programs, live music and dance acts.

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William Marshall is the organizer of the Delany Fest. He chose to hold the event in Market Square, mere yards away from with the Pittsburgh pioneer published a black newspaper, “The Mystery,” in the 1800s.

“What better place to have the Martin Delany Fest than where he used to work,” said Marshall.

Marshall expects to see about 2,000 people to turn up in Market Square each day for Pittsburgh’s Juneteenth event.

“We say that we’re the most livable city in America, so why not show the diversity with African-Americans and everybody else coming out and have a great event in Market Square?” said Marshall.

Delaney Fest will take place from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Saturday and noon until 10 p.m Sunday.

This will be the first time that the event is being held in Market Square. For more information about Martin R. Delaney Fest, visit their Facebook page.

WPXI