Written by : Jasmine M. Bowens
AFRAM Festival Returns to Baltimore This Weekend
Baltimore is the place to be this weekend as AFRAM, America’s largest free African American festival on the East Coast, returns to Druid Hill Park on June 21–22 from noon to 9 p.m. both days.
Since 1976, AFRAM (short for Afro-American Festival) has been a powerful celebration of African American culture, creativity and community. Each year, the festival brings together tens of thousands of people for a weekend filled with live music, local vendors, cultural showcases and unforgettable energy. This year, organizers are expecting around 200,000 guests to gather in Northwest Baltimore for the two-day celebration.
Just two hours from Philadelphia and one hour from Washington, D.C., AFRAM is the perfect summer day trip with friends or family.
This Year’s Main Stage Lineup Is Packed With Talent
The 2025 artist lineup features a mix of legendary performers and today’s rising stars, including:
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Patti LaBelle
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Juvenile
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Saweetie
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Teedra Moses
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Amerie
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Vedo
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Silk
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Stefflon Don
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Jonathan Nelson
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Kenya Vaun
In addition, the Roots & Family Stage will spotlight performances by AZ, Joi Carter and Devon Fleming, keeping the energy going all day long.
More Than Music
AFRAM is more than a concert — it’s a cultural experience. On Saturday at 2 p.m., don’t miss the Men’s Health Talk presented by Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic, taking place on the Main Stage. It’s a powerful conversation focused on wellness and community health.
Come for the Music, Stay for the Culture
What makes AFRAM special isn’t just the big-name performers or incredible food vendors — it’s the atmosphere. The crowd, the music, the history and the pride all come together to make this one of the most anticipated events of the summer.
This isn’t my first AFRAM, and after you go, it won’t be your last. So grab your friends, hit the road and experience one of the best festivals the region has to offer — and it’s all free!
