7 Black Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss This Summer

Summer 2025 is already giving main character energy, and if you’re looking for the ultimate vibes, these Black festivals are where you need to be! Whether you’re trying to catch your faves live, rep the culture, or just link up with the squad, we’ve rounded up the hottest celebrations happening this July and August.

1. Cincinnati Music Festival (July 24–26, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA)

Legends like Alicia Keys, Usher, and Fantasia are set to light up the stage this year. If you love classic R&B, new school soul, and Black excellence in every direction, Cincy is the move. Plus, the festival brings out some of the best food, fashion, and Black-owned vendors in the Midwest. Pack your best fit, you WILL be seen.

2. Black Culture Festival (July 26–27, London, UK)

You already know London shows out! This two-day festival is a celebration of Black music, art, fashion, and food from across the African diaspora. From Afrobeats to Caribbean soca, plus food trucks and fashion pop-ups, it’s a global family reunion, no flight change needed.

3. Roots Picnic (Philadelphia, USA—August 2–4)

Philly turns all the way up for this one. Hosted by The Roots, this festival is famous for its lineups that blend hip-hop, soul, and activism. Expect surprise guest appearances, live podcasts, and panels alongside music. And the crowd? Pure Black joy.

4. Durham Biscuits & Banjos Festival (August 16–18, Durham, North Carolina, USA)

If you’re looking for down-home, soulful fun with a twist, Durham’s got you. This festival combines Southern food (yes, there will be biscuits), live blues, gospel, and Black country music. Family-friendly, but you already know the afterparty is grown and sexy.

5. Afrochella Presents: AfroFuture (August 22–25, Accra, Ghana)

Ready for a passport stamp? Afrochella’s rebrand as AfroFuture is still the place to catch the biggest Afrobeats stars, breathtaking art installations, and fashion that’ll have you adding everything to your Pinterest board. Think giant block party with the diaspora coming home.

6. Essence Fest of Culture: Summer Series (July–August, Various US Cities)

Essence Fest is taking it on the road in 2025, with mini-fests popping up in Atlanta, Houston, and LA all summer. You’ll get star-studded concerts, empowerment talks, fashion shows, and even a wellness zone. If you can’t make NOLA, you’ve still got options!

7. Movement Festival (Detroit, USA—August 29–31)

For the house and techno heads: Movement is Black music history in real time. Detroit invented techno, and this fest reminds everyone where the beat started. From sunrise sets to late-night raves, this one’s for the dance crew.