Cultural festival to feature new talent, partnerships, and experiences

BALTIMORE, MD. (Tuesday, April 11, 2023) - The City of Baltimore is celebrating Juneteenth Weekend by showcasing Black excellence in fashion, art, music, business, and culture. Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Baltimore City Recreation & Parks announced plans for the 46th annual AFRAM Festival. AFRAM returns to the historic Druid Hill Park Saturday, June 17 and Sunday, June 18, from 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (both days).

Baltimore's AFRAM is a free event featuring local artists, business owners, and makers who display their goods, talents, and services to thousands of attendees. It is one of the largest African-American, cultural-arts fairs on the East Coast.

"AFRAM is extremely important for the City of Baltimore as it is one of our most time-honored traditions. This festival provides a unique opportunity for Baltimoreans and visitors to celebrate African-American heritage and culture in our city," said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. "I look forward to AFRAM's amazing lineup which I'm confident people of all ages will enjoy."

Gracing the stage this summer are:

Saturday, June 17

• Zo! & Tall Black Guy (featuring Deborah Bond)

• Ambre'
• Eric Bellinger
• Spinderella (salute to 50th anniversary of hip hop)
• Ty Dolla$

Sunday, June 18

• Tim Bowman, Jr.

• Eric Roberson
• Tamar Braxton
• Kid Capri
• The Isley Brothers

WJZ-TV returns as AFRAM's official broadcast media partner. Also joining the sponsorship team in 2023 are The SEED School of Maryland, Black Authors Book Expo MD, and CANE Collective. Additionally, Unruly Records will be on hand to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip hop. AFRAM is also offering grants to amplify local nonprofits hosting Juneteenth events. The City is now accepting applications for talent, sponsorship opportunities, volunteers, and vendors.

"There's no greater feeling than hosting thousands of our neighbors in one of Baltimore's most iconic parks. Historically, Druid Hill Park has been the backdrop of family reunions and recreational activities," said BCRP Executive Director Reginald Moore. "We're grateful for the support of the Scott Administration, community, local vendors, and strong partnerships that makes this event possible."

Other AFRAM activities include The SEED School of Maryland's RUN-UP-TO Juneteenth 5k Run and 1 Mile Walk, Sunday, June 11, which kicks off the city's Juneteenth celebration and AFRAM Restaurant Week. AFRAM Restaurant Week features city-wide, Black and women-owned food establishments that will create special menus for patrons to enjoy.

Attendees are encouraged to follow AFRAM on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for real-time updates and visit aframbaltimore.com for more details.

Please forward any media inquiries to Kevin Nash 443-842-3238 and Tierra Brown 443-415-0476.

About the Baltimore AFRAM Festival

The Baltimore AFRAM Festival is presented by Mayor Brandon M. Scott and the City of Baltimore. The Festival officially started in 1976 as a part of Baltimore City's Showcase of Nations. The multi-generational two-day live experience is slated to bring together the most dynamic voices in music, art and creativity.