July 10th LaCrone Park July 11 Bronson Park

This milestone year celebrates four decades of honoring the rich traditions, creativity, and contributions of African American artists and cultural leaders throughout Kalamazoo and beyond.

Friday, July 10, 2026 – Youth Day

11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
LaCrone Park, Kalamazoo

Youth Day is dedicated to inspiring the next generation through art, creativity, and community engagement. The event will feature:

Live youth performances
Interactive art activities
STEM and creative learning experiences
Community resource tables
Games, music, and family fun
Opportunities for young people to showcase their talents

Saturday, July 11, 2026 – 40th Annual Black Arts Festival

11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Bronson Park, Downtown Kalamazoo

Festival-goers can enjoy a full day of:

Live music featuring jazz, blues, R&B, gospel, and soul
Dance and spoken word performances
Local and regional artists
Food vendors and merchandise vendors
Community organizations and informational booths
Art exhibitions and cultural experiences
Family-friendly activities throughout the day

Black Arts Festival celebrates the origins of our organization and its mission to uplift black artistry within the community. This family-friendly event brings together artists of all genres and locals for a day of vibrant live performances, DJ sets, and a diverse mix of retail, food, and information vendors. With a focus on showcasing the richness of black artistry and history, the festival offers a safe, welcoming space for creative expression. Yard games and activities add to the fun, making it a celebration of family, culture, and community.

Youth Day is a vibrant, community-centered event designed to celebrate and uplift the youth in our city. This exciting day features live performances from talented young dancers, singers, poets, and more, showcasing the incredible skills of local youth. The event also includes a variety of fun activities like yard games, bounce houses, and retail booths where young entrepreneurs can sell their homemade merchandise and art. Additionally, local organizations will have tents to provide valuable resources and opportunities for the youth. Youth Day is all about recognizing the amazing things our young people are doing and offering them a place to have fun, connect, and explore the incredible opportunities available in our community.