Here at Eventnoire, we love celebrating our vast culture from Los Angeles to London to Lagos and back through events that allow us to connect to every piece of the African diaspora.
While there are many events happening for us and by us across the globe at any given moment, there are a few staples that we recommend attending at least once if you have the chance. Proper planning is always recommended, but you will not regret a moment during these Black experiences happening annually worldwide.
- Carnival
Whether in Toronto, Barbados, Brazil, or even Italy, Carnival is a must-attend event. Carnival is a festival of music, dancing, and parading in the street, usually prior to Lent with many celebrations aligned with the end of harvest season. These events are full of grandeur with many different types of cultural significance that can be displayed in the attire, type of dance, floats, and more.
- Essence Festival
Essence Festival or “Party with a Purpose” started in 1995 in celebration of Essence magazine’s 25th Anniversary. It has quickly become one of the largest African American music and cultural events in the United States with over 500,000 attendees each year. The festival occurs annually in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 4th weekend. Get details at essence.com/festival2021.
- AFROPUNK
AFROPUNK, a term originating from the documentary by James Spooner, is a series of festivals celebrating the submersive community of black people in punk and other alternative subcultures. The annual AFROPUNK Festival focuses on music, film, fashion and art and occurs in Brooklyn, Atlanta, London, Paris, and Johannesburg. Learn more about the event at afropunk.com.
- Afrochella
Afrochella is a celebration of Africa’s diverse culture and the vibrant work of African creatives & entrepreneurs with a focus on Millennial talent. The annual event is one of the newest on the scene and takes place annually in Accra, Ghana. Outside of the annual festival, the Afrochella team hosts a speaker series and block parties focused on topics and entertainment relevant to our culture. Find all of the details you need at afrochella.com.
5. New Orleans Jazz Festival
It should be no surprise that New Orleans makes an appearance on this list twice! The New Orleans Jazz Festival is yet another annual event that is a must-attend due to the epicness surrounding the event’s performers (like the amazing Gladys Knight), parades, “no carnival food” policy, and local vendors.
6. AfroTech
Afrotech aka the “the premier tech, investing, and wealth-building platform for the Black community” is one of the best places to network with Black techies, meet with investors, and land a job with some of the hottest startups. The event also gives attendees the opportunity to learn more about trends, fundraising, and pitching your brand.
While you’re here, listen to our Jeff Osuji on AfroTech’s Black Tech Green Money podcast.
7. National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Conference
The National Black MBA Association Conference is a great opportunity to learn more about creating, building, and growing businesses. It’s the perfect to meet others MBAs, discover wealth opportunities, and meet with companies that are currently hiring for numerous position. The Conference also always has amazing speakers who are ready to drop gems!
Attending the 2021 conference in Chicago? Check out our full event lineup here.
Have you attended any of these amazing events and if so, what was the experience like? What events should we add to this list? Tell us more in the comments below.
