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As the year unfolds, so do the opportunities to celebrate and honor the rich culture and heritage of the Black community. From vibrant music and dance performances to delicious culinary experiences and thought-provoking discussions, the rest of 2023 is packed with exciting black festivals that you won't want to miss. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in art, music, history, or simply connect with others, these festivals offer something for everyone. Here are some upcoming Black festivals to mark on your calendar:
1. AfroPunk Brooklyn circus of soul
Date: October 14-15, 2023
Location: Brooklyn, NY
ABOUT: The AfroPunk Festival is a two-day celebration of music, art, and culture that embraces diversity and creativity. It features an impressive lineup of musicians, including artists from various genres such as R&B, hip-hop, rock, and electronic music. Beyond the music, AfroPunk also showcases local artists, fashion designers, and thought-provoking panel discussions on topics ranging from social justice to self-expression.
2. One music fest
Date: October 28-29, 2023
Location: Piedmont Park, Atlanta, GA
Website: ONEMUSICFEST.COM
ABOUT: OMF has become a destination festival attracting over 50,000+ diverse music lovers from all over the nation. For 13 years ONE Musicfest has become known for its eclectic mashup of urban artists that have included Pharrell, 2 Chainz, Miguel, Outkast, Gucci Mane, Kendrick Lamar, Usher, Gary Clark Jr, Raphael Saadiq, Lauryn Hill, SZA, Nas, Kelis, Summer Walker, Anderson Paak, Erykah Badu, DVSN, Damian Marley, Ari Lennox, A$AP Rocky, T.I, Santigold, Jill Scott, Teedra Moses, The Roots, 8 Ball & MJG, Jhene Aiko, BJ the Chicago Kid, Janelle Monae, and many more!
3. african festival of the arts chicago 2023 (34th annual)
Date: September 1-4, 2023
Location: Chicago, Illinois
ABOUT: Africa International House USA, Inc, named one of Chicago’s cultural treasures, presents the 34th ANNUAL AFRICAN FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Labor Day Weekend (Sept. 1-4) in Washington Park! This traditional end-of-summer culturally immersive and interactive event brings the art, sights, tastes, sounds, and spirituality of African Diaspora cultures to Chicago – in a replicated African village! Non-stop entertainment representing the full arc of global Black music expression is featured on two stages providing the entire family with an abundance of fun activities and memories at an affordable cost!
4. black owned wine & spirits Festival 2023
Date: September 30, 2023
Location: Washington, DC
Website: https://bowsfest.com/
THE SOUL OF BOWS!
The vision was to increase visibility and awareness of Black Owned Spirit, Wine and Beer companies, here we are today celebrating the 7th Year!
ABOUT: Held in our nation’s capital, BOWSFest has grown in vendor and attendee numbers each year. To date, BOWSFest has hosted 50+ vendors and sold 6500 bottles of Black Owned Wine, Spirit and Beers direct to consumers. While we are proud of the evolution behind BOWSFest, what’s most important is the spirit of the movement. Celebrating Black Owned Wine and Spirit brands extend beyond the purchase of a bottle. It is a celebration of community, cohesion, and creativity…and at its core, a celebration of Black Excellence.
5. 14th annual african american cultural festival
Date: September 2-3, 2023
Location: Downtown Raleigh, NC
Website: http://www.aacfestival.org/
ABOUT: The African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County (AACF) is back for its 14th edition! Join us on Labor Day weekend, September 2-3, 2023 for a unique celebration of African American culture as expressed through art, music, food & community. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public, welcoming all to explore the creative offerings of some of North Carolina's most talented African American artists.
6. honeyland festival
Date: November 11-1 2, 2023
Location: Sugar Land, TX
Website: https://www.honeylandfestival.com/
ABOUT: Honeyland is a festival celebrating the best of Black expression — where the top restaurateurs, beverage makers, and artists get together to remix, refresh, and create more of what flavors the world.
These upcoming Black festivals offer a chance to celebrate, learn, and connect with a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're interested in music, art, theater, film, or history, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to mark your calendar and join in the festivities as we honor and appreciate the rich contributions of the Black community.
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