Events
Happenings you shouldn't miss in the months ahead.
2026 Langston Hughes Youth Oratorical Contest!
Join Us for an Unforgettable Celebration of Youth Voices
The 2026 Langston Hughes Youth Oratorical Contest
Experience the brilliance, courage, and creativity of Harford County’s finest middle and high school students as they take the stage to deliver powerful, original speeches inspired by this year’s theme:
“We stand on top of the mountain, free within ourselves.”
This dynamic event honors the legacy of Langston Hughes while uplifting the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and storytellers. You won’t want to miss this inspiring afternoon of talent, confidence, and excellence.
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Event Details
Saturday, February 7, 2026
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Doors open at 11:00 a.m.
The contest will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m.
Guests are asked to be seated by that time.
Cultural Center at the Opera House
121 North Union Avenue
Havre de Grace, Maryland 21078
Admission is FREE and open to the public, but seating is limited.
Reserve your seat today:
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Awards & Recognition
1st Place: $500
2nd Place: $300
3rd Place: $200
Top 10 Runners-Up: $100 each
Reception Following the Contest
Please join us for a small reception with light refreshments immediately following the contest at:
Havre de Grace Colored School Museum and Cultural Center
555 Alliance Street
Havre de Grace, Maryland 21078
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This Year the Scholarships will be awarded in honor of the late
Dr. Clayton C. Stansbury, Jr.
We were proud to host our Langston Hughes Youth Oratorical Contest in honor of the late Dr. Clayton C. Stansbury, Jr., a visionary leader who preserved history and uplifted future generations. As a proud graduate of the Havre de Grace Colored School, Class 1951, he ensured African American stories would never be forgotten through his written works.
Check Out the 2025 Contest in Honor of Mrs. Christine Tolbert.
Thank You for Supporting US!
Thank you to all festival attendees for joining us at the Arts, Wine, Jazz, & Soul Festival.
Your participation plays a vital role in supporting the operation, preservation, and restoration of the historic Havre de Grace Colored School. By coming together, we honor our shared history and ensure that its legacy endures for future generations.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for your support, and we hope you can join us again next year to continue this important work.
