Earlier this month, Essence Festival released its official line-up, and let’s just say, we’re excited to be back outside this summer! The annual festival that celebrates Black women and Black joy is just one of many that will be taking place over the course of the year. There are so many factors that can steal our joy, so it’s important to take part in experiences that actually give us joy. What better way to do that than music festivals? Imagine the beauty that transpires when we allow ourselves to just bask in our Blackness among each other. There’s nothing like it.
1. Roots Picnic
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What better way to kick off the summer festival stint than this festival? With headliners like Mary J. Blige and Jazmine Sullivan, it’s sure to be the social event of the season.
2. Essence Festival
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This annual festival featuring some of the biggest names in Black entertainment takes place in New Orleans and is always a blast. What better way to celebrate our culture than being in the heart of a city that’s bustling with it?
3. Broccoli City Festival
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With much of its theme centered around health and wellness, this will surely be a festival to remember. Taking place this May in Washington D.C., with headliners like Ari Lennox and Wale, you don’t want to miss this one.
4. Made in America
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If you’re looking for a fun event to dig into during Labor Day weekend, look no further. This music festival has featured some of the biggest names in music, such as Lizzo, Megan Thee Stallion and more.
5. Lovers & Friends
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Taking place in May in Las Vegas, it’s looking as if this will be one for the books as well. With headliners like Brandy, Usher and Monica, it’s certain to be a good time.
6. Afrochella
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Why settle for Coachella when we can have Afrochella? The celebration of African culture is the cornerstone of this wonderful festival and from the looks of it, it never disappoints.
7. Afropunk
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Celebrating the intersection of Blackness and the punk subculture is a celebration like no other at this legendary festival. Black people can do and be anything we want, and this festival is a pleasant reminder.
8. Strength of a Woman Festival
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Teaming up with Pepsi, in partnership with Live Nation Urban, Mary J. Blige is debuting the inaugural Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit 2022. Blige has empowered women throughout her entire artistic career, so it comes as no surprise that she’s taking it a step further with this Atlanta-based festival.
Which festival are you looking forward to? It’s so hard to decide with all of these stellar lineups.
