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Black Music Festivals You Don't Want to Miss in 2025

Darrien Watson··Updated January 13, 2026·10 min read

The top Black music festivals to attend in 2025 — from Dreamville and Afronation to Essence Fest, Roots Picnic, Broccoli City, and more.

Black Music Festivals You Don't Want to Miss in 2025

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Get ready to groove and celebrate as we dive into a lineup of upcoming festivals that’s about to set the scene on fire! From the soulful beats of Dreamville to the vibes heating up Afronation and the cultural feast at Roots Picnic, these festivals are about to take us on a journey through sound and community.

Whether you’re vibing with ESSENCE Festival’s iconic spirit, embracing the conscious energy of Broccoli City, or getting in tune with Afropunk’s cutting-edge vibes, there’s something for every music lover. So, let’s get the squad together, because these festivals are not just concerts – they’re experiences waiting to be lived!


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Afrofuture Fest

December 2025 –January 2026

Accra, Ghana

afrofuture.com

Afrofuture Fest (formerly Afrochella) mixes rich African heritage with electrifying entertainment filled with art installations, live music, and a journey through Ghana’s profound historical sites. With likely musical performances by top African artists such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Stonebwoy, and Kwame Eugene, alongside other big names in the music scene, this festival is a vibrant celebration where you and your crew can connect, dance, and soak in the transformative spirit of Africa.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@afrofuture) • Instagram photos and videos


Techsgiving

December 2025

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington D.C.

techsgiving.org

The Techsgiving Summit is for tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators dedicated to empowering diverse tech professionals and entrepreneurs. The summit features networking events, workshops, and sessions focused on career mobility, leadership, technical skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, government tech, contracting, and consulting.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@techsgiving) • Instagram photos and videos


Beaucoup Hoodoo Festival

October 2025

New Orleans, LA

Beaucoup Hoodoo

The only ATRS (African Traditional Religions) festival of its kind, Beaucoup Hoodoo Fest features cultural events such as second lining to Congo Square, praying, and dancing under ancestral trees. It celebrates African heritage with a focus on spirituality, culture, and community.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@beaucouphoodoo) • Instagram photos and videos


Bali Carnival

 September 2025 – October 2025

Canggu, Bali, Indonesia

Immerse yourself in Bali Carnival 2025, where the vibrancy of a Caribbean carnival meets Bali’s rich cultural tapestry. This event offers a unique blend of tradition and festivity against the backdrop of Bali’s stunning landscapes, with events and island sightseeing including waterfalls, temples, watersports, and ricefields.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@balicarnival) • Instagram photos and videos


Antigua Carnival 2025

August 2nd – August 7th, 2025

Antigua

Explore multiple destinations with curated activities and local experiences. This event offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, perfect for those looking to make the most of their vacation days.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@antiguafestivalsofficial) • Instagram photos and videos


Barbados Crop Over Festival

August 1st – August 6th, 2025

Bridgetown, Barbados

The Crop Over summer festival is Barbados’ most popular and colorful festival. It features events such as the Opening Gala, Bridgetown Market, Cohobblopot, Kiddies Kadooment, and the Grand Kadooment parade. The festival celebrates Barbadian culture with calypso music, arts and crafts, and elaborate costumes.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@barbadoscropoverhub) • Instagram photos and videos


Urban Excursion Weekend

August 30 – September 2, 2025

Jamaica

Melanin on the Map

This 4-day trip offers a combination of must-see locations and experiences in Jamaica, along with vibrant nightlife activities. The agenda includes event registration and meet & greet, island exploration, catamaran party with snorkeling, nightlife experiences, city excursions, and a beach and pool day. The package includes hotel accommodations, transportation to and from scheduled events, and a private group chat for attendees. Additional costs apply for flights, nighttime activities, and airport transportation.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@urbanexcursionweekend) • Instagram photos and videos


One Musicfest

Fall 2025

Atlanta, GA

onemusicfest.com

Urban progressive music festival with over 50,000 attendees, featuring top artists and community events.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@onemusicfest) • Instagram photos and videos


Afro Nation Detroit

August 17-18, 2025

Detroit, MI

afronation.com

Featuring Rema, PartyNextDoor, Kash Doll, Amaarae, Uncle Waffles.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@afronation.us) • Instagram photos and videos


Black Owned Wine & Spirits Festival

22-Sep-24

Washington, D.C.

blackownedspiritsfestival.com

Features wine, spirits, and beer created by Black-owned companies, providing sampling opportunities and encouraging community partnerships.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@bowsfest) • Instagram photos and videos


Blue Note Jazz Festival

August 30 – September 1

Napa, CA

bluenotejazz.com

Celebrating the rich tapestry of Black culture with performances from top jazz artists, set in the scenic Napa Valley.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@bluenotejazzfestival) • Instagram photos and videos


Carnival Calabar

Dec-24

Calabar, Nigeria

carnivalcalabar.com

Known for its spectacular costumes and vibrant music, this festival is a highlight of Nigerian cultural celebrations.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@calabarcarnival) • Instagram photos and videos


Flytime Festival

Dec-24

Lagos, Nigeria

flytimefest.com

Nigeria’s longest-running indoor music festival featuring major African and international artists.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@flytimefest) • Instagram photos and videos


Fool in Love Festival

31-Aug-24

Inglewood, CA

Fool In Love Festival on Instagram

Featuring Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, Charlie Wilson, Gladys Knight, The Isley Brothers, Chaka Khan, Evelyn Champagne King, Midnight Star.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@foolinlovefest) • Instagram photos and videos


I Love RnB Festival

7-Sep-24

Los Angeles, CA

ilovernb.com

Featuring Omarion, Bow Wow, Ja Rule, Ashanti, DJ set by Jermaine Dupri, and performances by Monica, Pretty Ricky, Fabolous, Ginuwine, Mya, Keri Hilson, Lloyd, and more.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@ilovernbfestival) • Instagram photos and videos


iHeartRadio Music Festival

September 20-21, 2025

Las Vegas, NV

iheart.com

Featuring Big Sean, Shaboozey, Doja Cat, Victoria Monét.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@iheartfestival) • Instagram photos and videos


Lollapalooza

August 1-4, 2025

Chicago, IL

lollapalooza.com

Featuring Tyler, the Creator, SZA, Future, Metro Boomin, Killer Mike, Sexyy Red, Tyla.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@lollapalooza) • Instagram photos and videos


Notting Hill Carnival

Aug-24

London, UK

nhcarnival.org

Europe’s largest street festival, celebrating Caribbean culture with music, dance, and vibrant costumes.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@nhcarnivalldn) • Instagram photos and videos


Reggae on the River

August 2-4, 2025

Humboldt County, CA

reggaeontheriver.com

Featuring Anthony B, Collie Buddz, DeMarco, Stylo G, Xyclone, Bobby Hustle, Chuck Fenda, and Sister Nancy.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@reggaeontheriver) • Instagram photos and videos


Dreamville

April 6–7th, 2025

Raleigh, North Carolina

dreamvillefest.com

Dreamville in Raleigh, NC, is a dynamic music festival founded by rapper J. Cole, offering an immersive experience with a diverse lineup of black artists spanning hip-hop, R&B, and more. Located in the vibrant city of Raleigh, this festival attracts thousands, fostering a sense of community among attendees.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@dreamville) • Instagram photos and videos


AFRAM

June 22–23rd, 2025

Baltimore, Maryland

aframbaltimore.com

AFRAM 2024 is set to transform Druid Hill Park into a pulsating heart of Black culture this summer in Baltimore, MD. As part of a lineup sparking anticipation from coast to coast, AFRAM offers an eclectic mix of music, arts, and local food vendors, ideal for an unforgettable group getaway. Rally your crew and dive into a cultural celebration where community and high-energy vibes meet, making every moment a collective memory to cherish.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@aaaafram) • Instagram photos and videos


Afronation

June 26–28th, 2025

Portimao, Portugal

afronation.com

Afronation is a global celebration of Afrobeat and world music. With a stunning beach backdrop, this annual festival hosts an eclectic mix of international and African artists, drawing a multicultural crowd for a unique and unforgettable music fest by the sea.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@afronation) • Instagram photos and videos


Roots Picnic

June 2025* (TBA)

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

therootspicnic.com

Roots Picnic is a renowned music festival curated by The Roots, showcasing a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and alternative sounds. Known for its electric performances and laid-back atmosphere, the festival has a history of drawing a diverse audience, making it an ideal destination for group travel enthusiasts.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@rootspicnic) • Instagram photos and videos


ESSENCE Fest

July 4–7th, 2025

New Orleans, Louisiana

essence.com

ESSENCE Festival, held annually in New Orleans, LA, is a cultural extravaganza celebrating African American music, arts, and culture. With a star-studded lineup covering various genres, this iconic festival attracts massive crowds, offering group travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of the city.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@essencefest) • Instagram photos and videos


Curlfest

July 20th, 2025

New York City, New York

curlfest.com

America’s largest natural beauty festival, Curlfest, is 100% owned by Black women and set to ignite NYC this summer with its empowering atmosphere and inclusive spirit. There’s much to explore, from Beauty Row’s interactive brand activations to the pulsating rhythms at the Main Stage dance party. It’s a perfect event for your squad to experience creativity, connect with influencers, and indulge in various international cuisines from vendors across the African diaspora.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@curlygirlcollective) • Instagram photos and videos


Broccoli City

July 2025* (TBA)

Washington, D.C.

bcfestival.com

Broccoli City festival stands out as an urban music and arts festival with a focus on sustainability and social impact. Featuring a mix of hip-hop and electronic music headliners, this festival draws a socially conscious crowd, providing group organizers an opportunity to create meaningful and environmentally friendly experiences in America’s capital.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@broccolicity) • Instagram photos and videos


Afropunk

April 6–7th, 2025

Raleigh, North Carolina

Afropunk in Atlanta, GA, is a cutting-edge music festival celebrating alternative and independent artists from diverse genres. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and self-expression, Afropunk draws a vibrant and energetic crowd, making it an ideal destination for group trips seeking a fusion of music, culture, and creativity.

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Careers in Tech & Startup (@afropunk) • Instagram photos and videos

8 spots left

Bali Wellness Retreat

Jun 15-22 • 7 nights • Ubud

Choose Package
Shared Room$1,800
Private Villa$2,500
VIP Suite$3,200
Itinerary
1
Arrive & Welcome
Pickup • Sound healing
2
Yoga & Rice Terraces
Sunrise session • Tegallalang
3
Temple & Waterfall
Tirta Empul • Spa
Add-Ons
Spa Package
+$150
Cooking Class
+$75
Total$2,650
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