Umoja Fest brings the soul to Seafair! Get ready for a sensational experience at the Africatown Heritage Parade, showcasing captivating dance troops and drill teams. Don't miss the electrifying performances by headliners Kenyon Dixon & Goapele on the Soul N The Park stage! This family-friendly festival offers something for everyone, including the Children's Day & Family Fun Village, a thrilling football tournament, and a dazzling fashion show on the Afrobeats & Kulture Stage, featuring incredible talent. Explore the vibrant vendor marketplaces and community resource fair, and be sure to savor the delectable flavors of the African diaspora from our array of restaurants and food trucks. There's so much more to discover and enjoy at this remarkable event.
Parade kicks off at 1pm at 23rd & Cherry!
We're still accepting sponsors, vendors, parade participants, and volunteers. Sign up now at www.umojafestnw.com.
ABOUT
The spirit of the Umoja Fest African Heritage Festival & Parade is one that spans more than six decades. A tradition since the 1940s, Seattle has hosted the annual African American community festival and parade as a custom writing celebration of the city’s ethnic diversity. Originally part of the International Festival, it would be known over the years as the East Madison Mardi Gras and the Pacific Northwest Black Community Festival. It not only has been credited as the inspiration behind SEAFAIR (which emerged during the early 1950’s) but also continues to be held during SEAFAIR’s annually activities.
The purpose of the festival and parade is to highlight the history and countless contributions of African-Americans locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. It is a celebration that gives people from all over Washington and the Northwest an opportunity to experience the rich African heritage and culture of the region.
The festival and parade, which is coordinated by volunteers, is a three-day festival includes musical entertainment of all varieties, children’s group performances, dance, oration national recording artists, food, bargains, and plenty of fun.
“Umoja” is a Swahili word which means “unity”, is the main theme of the festival. An artistic and cultural extravaganza that uniquely touches the spirit of the community, the Umoja Fest has historically been the most unifying celebration in the community, bringing people of all ethnic backgrounds together for a celebration of culture, education, social festivities, and networking. Event highlights include the African Heritage Parade, Children’s Day, African Drum & Dance, Jazz, Soul, Reggae, Spoken Word & Poetry, Hip-Hop Fest, Basketball Tournament, Fitness Demonstrations, Gospel Fest, Voter Registration, Vendor Marketplace & Community Resource Fair.
DONATE TODAY
We also invite you to consider making a donation to UMOJA Festival. UMOJA Fest is a vibrant event that showcases the rich diversity and unity of our community. It brings people together through music, art, food, and engaging activities, fostering a sense of togetherness and celebration. However, organizing such a large-scale festival requires significant resources, and that's where your contribution can truly make a difference.Your generosity will directly impact the success of UMOJA Fest and leave a lasting legacy of unity and celebration within our community.
You can donate via the link in this Eventbrite
Questions? Reach out to marketing@umojafestnw.com
