Afro+ Fest Ignites D.C. wiht Global Black Music Party
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washington D.C. Set to Host Inaugural Festival Celebrating Diaspora’s Rhythms
Washington D.C. is gearing up for a groundbreaking cultural event as Afro+ Fest prepares to make its debut, billed as the capital’s first festival dedicated to Global Black music. Scheduled for August 31st, the one-day extravaganza promises a vibrant fusion of sounds, flavors, and entrepreneurial spirit, all converging at the iconic RFK Festival Grounds.
Headliners and Star-Studded Lineup
Leading the charge at Afro+ Fest are none other than Atlanta rapper Gunna and Nigerian sensation Asake, whose chart-topping hits have captivated audiences worldwide. Their presence underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing the immense talent emerging from the global Black music scene.Beyond the headliners, the festival boasts an extraordinary roster of artists representing the rich tapestry of the African diaspora. Attendees can look forward to electrifying performances from:
Gabzy: The British-Nigerian singer known for his smooth R&B and Afrobeats-infused melodies.
Shatta Wale: the Ghanaian reggae-dancehall artist bringing his signature high-energy performance. Shenseea: The Jamaican dancehall star set to ignite the stage with her infectious rhythms and captivating stage presence.
Uncle Waffles: The South African-based DJ who has taken the global Amapiano scene by storm.
Adding a special touch to the D.C. celebration, local rap star Shy Glizzy will present an exclusive “A Tribute to DC” set, paying homage to the city’s vibrant musical heritage.
More Than Just Music: A Cultural Immersion
Afro+ Fest aims to be a holistic celebration of Black culture, extending far beyond its musical offerings. The festival is meticulously curated to provide an immersive experience that honors the diverse genres that define Global black music, including Hip Hop, Afrobeats, soca, R&B, and dancehall.
Festival-goers can anticipate:
Global Cuisine: A delectable array of food vendors serving up authentic dishes from across the diaspora, offering a true taste of black culinary traditions.
Fashion Activations: Showcasing the latest trends and styles from Black designers and creators, celebrating the intersection of music and fashion.
Marketplace for Black-Owned Brands: A dedicated space designed to uplift and promote local entrepreneurs and businesses, fostering economic growth within the community.
Art Installations: Engaging visual art pieces that reflect and celebrate Black creativity and heritage.
A Dream Realized for D.C.
Michael Awosanya, the founder and executive producer of Afro+ Fest, expressed his excitement about bringing this long-held vision to life. ”This is the block party we’ve dreamed about for a decade,” Awosanya stated. “With the support of Mayor Muriel Bowser and Events DC, Afro+Fest is bringing the full diaspora to RFK – music, food, culture – driven by the people and sounds that shape us.”
The choice of Washington D.C. as the festival’s home is particularly fitting. The city’s nickname, “Chocolate City,” resonates deeply with the cultural significance of the event, and the growing popularity of Afrobeats stateside makes the RFK Festival Grounds the perfect venue to host this momentous occasion.
economic and Cultural Impact
Beyond its artistic and cultural contributions, Afro+ Fest is poised to deliver significant economic benefits to the nation’s capital. “The festival’s impact will be felt not only through the music, but in the real opportunities it creates for local businesses and visionaries,” Awosanya added, highlighting the festival’s commitment to community empowerment.
Tickets for Afro+ fest are currently available for purchase at theafroplus.com. Don’t miss this historic opportunity to experience the vibrant pulse of Global Black music and culture in the heart of Washington D.C.
