Top 6 Black Festivals to Look Out For

The only things that can get hotter than the political discourse in this country are the much-anticipated music festivals. Look, we all need a break from the world, and what’s the best way to relieve some stress than by enjoying a new city, fresh air, and live music? No matter where you are, you’re bound to have a top-notch experience and see what these cities and festivals have to offer. There’s something for everyone, from hip-hop fans to house music lovers. Start gathering your friends and outfits because you don’t want to experience FOMO this summer. Here are the top five black festivals to check out this year.

Essence Fest

This one is a no-brainer. One of Black America’s most prominent magazine hosting one of the biggest music festivals in America, right in New Orleans. Not to mention the festival is usually hosted around the 4th of July holiday. Sounds like a perfect time for a friend's getaway, a girl’s trip if you will (pun intended). You can experience the culture of New Orleans, and attend panels, workshops, and film screenings while enjoying the hottest Hip-Hop and R&B acts. Previous headliners and performers have included Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, and Janelle Monae.

Roots Picnic

Set in West Philadelphia, Roots Picnic is the ultimate event for soul music fans, featuring a bit of conscious hip-hop as well. With a variety of Philly’s finest food available and a stunning backdrop of the city’s skyline, this festival serves as a true celebration of Philadelphia’s music scene. Last year’s headliners and performers included Jill Scott, Lil Wayne, Andre 3000, Nas, Babyface, Wale, Leon Thomas, and Sexyy Red, with surprise appearances by Common!

Dreamville

Home to Petey Pablo and Rapsody, Dreamville Fest is right in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is for hip-hop fans across the world it’s brought to you by none other than J. Cole, critically acclaimed rapper, co-founder of Dreamville Records and Dreamville Music Festival. Now if you’re interested in this festival, you need to make plans as soon as possible because this is the last year the festival will be put on, which means tickets are expected to sell out. Last year’s festival had a star-studded lineup with 50 Cent, Nicki Minaj, SZA, and of course J. Cole with appearances from Monica, Jeezy, and Sexyy Red.

ONE Music Fest

It’s no surprise that this music festival is growing and thriving; when you host an event in a city that’s known as the “Motown of the South”, it’s only right to do it big. ONE Music Festival is hosted right in Atlanta. Taking place in the historic Central Park, the festival has many activities sponsored by some of your favorite brands, lounges, bars, and live music. Last year Earth Wind & Fire and Victoria Monet set the stage on fire, and we are eager to see who will headline this year. Are you ready to see them set Hotlanta on fire?

Broccoli City Festival

Unlike the people who stormed the capital, Broccoli City Fest encourages people to storm Audi Field and let the hottest acts set the stage on fire. The festival is held in D.C. and only adds to the reputation of D.C. being known as “Chocolate City”. Last year while Megan Thee Stallion, Gunna, Kaytranada, and Key Glock got the crowd going crazy, smaller interactive activities were hosted by Issa Rae and Bryson Tiller.

Chosen Few Picnic & Festival

This one is for my house heads. As many of you may know, Chicago is the mecca of House Music, and the Chosen Few Picnic & Festival has been a Chicago summer staple for 30 years. The hottest house DJs and the best Chicago food are at the forefront with a communal, laidback vibe. Seven house DJs will be hitting the stage including Grammy-nominated Terry Hunter.