“Celebrate Soulfully” at Disney Springs Honors Achievement by Black Artists and Makers This February

There’s still time to explore all that Disney Springs has to offer during a brand new celebration taking place now through the end of February.

(Courtesy Brooke Fehr)

“Celebrate Soulfully” offers guests the chance to celebrate and honor contributions of Black culture. Look for special entertainment, art installations, and dishes that focus on Black culture and jazz-inspired entertainment. In addition, the dining, shopping and entertainment destination is also spotlighting Black makers in shops and stores throughout the complex.

The Shows

While most of us head to Disney Springs to dine and shop, you won’t want to miss the stellar entertainment taking place there this month.

Find your groove during Motown Mondays, when ensemble Motown in Motion takes Waterside Stage by storm. You’ll be on your feet dancing to covers of familiar favorites, like Rollin’ on the River and Respect. Try not to tap your foot. We dare you.

(Courtesy Brooke Fehr)

On Jazz Thursdays and Smooth Sundays, indulge in the musical stylings of the Tonya Staples Duo and Joseph Jevanni.

The Art

Throughout Disney Springs, delight in four new art installations inspired by the Disney-Pixar film Soul by artists Bee Harris, Bianca Pastel, Arrington Porter and Cory Van Lew.

(Courtesy Brooke Fehr)

Also, did you know that House of Blues Restaurant & Bar is home to the largest permanently displayed collection of Outsider and American Folk Art in the country? Showcasing more than 150 untrained, self-taught and largely African-American artists, this display is a must-see for any connoisseur of the visual arts. Notable artists include Mose T., Ruth Mae McCrane, Archie Byron and many more.

The Merch

Disney Springs also offers merchandise created by Black makers and business owners.

At Marketplace Co-op, indulge your senses in Bowes Candles. Founded by Jamaica native Dave Bowes, the company offers more than 110 candle and essential oil scents for sale at Disney Springs. Yearning for favorites like “Jamaica Me Crazy” or “Pineapple Whip”? No worries—they ship worldwide!

(Courtesy Brooke Fehr)

At Sephora, look for Black-owned beauty brands such as Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Briogeo, Pat McGrath Labs and Shani Darden Skincare to take home with you.

The Food

The Edison welcomes new Executive Chef Deaundra “Dee” Rolle in grand style later this month with a special event. Chef Dee Presents “A Taste of the Bahamas” on Thursday, February 25 at 6:30 p.m.

(Courtesy Patina Restaurant Group)

Guests can look forward to trying dishes “featuring a masterful mix of traditional flavors from her home country and classic American recipes.” But the fun doesn’t stop there: The Edison’s master mixologists have crafted a pairing menu featuring tiki cocktails! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit The Edison’s website.

At Wine Bar George, stop by for inspiring sip of Maison Noir wines available on tap, created by sommelier and wine maker Andre Mack. First, discover the subtle nuances of O.P.P. (Other Peoples’ Pinot). This classic Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is eminently drinkable, with or without food, and offers earthy notes with spicy, cherry-flavored undertones. Next, opt for the heavier-hitting Horseshoes & Hand Grenades. A voluptuous blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, it’s smooth as silk.

(Courtesy Brooke Fehr)

Finally, stop by Amorette’s Patisserie and enjoy the bakery’s signature petite cakes with two different special decorative touches. One honors Soul, and the other depicts Princess Tiana from The Princess and the Frog.

(Courtesy Brooke Fehr)

Both feature delectable flavors of chocolate and raspberry and are big enough to share.