Celebrate History At Pan-African Connection

If you’re searching for things to do in Dallas, consider heading to the Pan-African Connection on South Marsalis Avenue. A multipurpose venue, the shop and learning center are billed as “the shortest trip to Africa without getting on a plane.”

What Is the Pan-African Connection?

A bookstore, art gallery, and educational center, the Pan-African Connection is where to go in Dallas to learn about the fascinating continent of Africa. Bandele Tyehimba founded the shop in 1989. To realize his dream, he worked for Boeing at night and ran the bookstore during the day. Sadly, Bandele passed away in 2012, but his wife, Akwete, has kept the center open and serves as its current CEO.

The Center’s Mission and Methodology

More than just a retail setting, the Connection’s stated mission is to “remind the world that Black history did not start in slavery, but in Africa.” It also serves as a support center, providing everything from event space to community farming initiatives. In addition to various visual and language arts programs, the Connection also hosts STEM classes and opportunities.

Another goal of the center is to instill a sense of pride and knowledge about Africa among the area’s Black community. Their goal is to be a positive resource that forwards the healing of generational traumas that African-Americans have been forced to endure — both implicitly and explicitly — for centuries.

Things To Do at the Center

The Connection is bursting with things to do, see, and learn. It started as a bookstore, but today sells toys, puzzles, educational tools, clothing, and more. Are you in the market for some African art not made in China? Then head to the Connection, where you’ll find aisles of authentic pieces. Need a dashiki? You can choose from loads of options at the Pan-African center in Dallas.

In addition to its retail component, Connection hosts many events, including African art tours, book lectures, readings, and storytelling events. The Pan-African center also offers dance classes for children and adults, and every Friday, it hosts a drum circle at which all are welcome. Also, check the venue’s calendar for art classes and special performances.

Visitor FAQ for the Pan-African Center in Dallas

Are you planning a trip to the Pan-African venue in Dallas? Here are answers to commonly asked questions about the center.

When Is it Open?

The center is closed on Mondays, but it’s open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays. On Saturdays, they welcome guests an hour earlier, at 10 a.m, and on Sunday, the hours are between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

What Is the Venue’s Focus?

The Connection’s primary focus is Africa. While they hold events and sell products that speak to the Black American experience, African art and heritage take center stage.

Where Is it Located?

The Pan-African center in Dallas is located at 4466 S Marsalis Avenue, located in the Glendale Shopping Center strip mall.

The Pan-African center in Dallas is a wonderful spot for all families interested in learning about different cultures. Be friendly, come with an open heart and mind, and you’ll be welcome with open arms!