Welcome

AfroKC Festival 2026: Bridging Continents, Celebrating Community

We welcome you to AfroKC festival’s dynamic performances, engaging interviews with featured panelists, artists and honorees, and the powerful story of how African and Afro-diasporic contributions have woven themselves into Kansas City’s cultural fabric

Saturday day, June 13 | 6PM – 10 PM | Kansas City Plaza Unity Temple

As part of Juneteenth month, AfroKC is proud to present its flagship one-day celebration, AfroKC Festival 2026. A vibrant gathering where the spirit of Africa and its global diaspora converges in the heart of our city.

What to Expect
Live Music & Dance: From pulsating Afrobeat and highlife to Percussion drumming and fusion, feel the rhythms that move continents.

Fashion Showcase: A vibrant fashion showcase highlighting stunning creations from local area designers, celebrating African heritage through modern and traditional styles.

This years designers include:

TBA

Suzanne Wanja

Authentic Flavors: Savor West African jollof, East African samosas, Afro-Caribbean jerk chicken, and modern soul-food twists from local chefs.

Art & Fashion Market: Engage with artisans and designers showcasing bold Ankara prints, Kente weavings, Afro-Chic streetwear, and multimedia installations.

Community Spotlight: Discover how African, Afro-diasporic, Afro-Caribbean, African-American, and Afro-Asian entrepreneurs and nonprofits are shaping Kansas City’s future.

Cultural Engagement: Storytelling circle, Cultural Thursday workshop, cultural arts and a special youth performance stage.

AfroKC 2026 Non-Profit Recipient:

Proceeds from this year’s AfroKC will go to HealthEd Connect, supporting health and education in underserved communities. We’re proud to contribute to their impactful mission.

AfroKC LEGACY AWARDS:
The AfroKC Legacy Awards honor and celebrate individuals and organizations within the Kansas City community who make a meaningful difference, particularly in promoting and preserving African, African American and Afro-diasporic culture. These awards shine a light on the often-unrecognized efforts of community leaders, artists, educators, and advocates whose work uplifts cultural identity, fosters unity, and drives positive change. By acknowledging these contributions, the AfroKC Legacy Awards not only validate the importance of cultural heritage and grassroots impact but also inspire future generations to continue building strong, vibrant, and inclusive communities.

2025 AfroKc Legacy Award Recipients:

2026 AfroKc Legacy Award Recipients:

TBA

Why Come to AfroKC Festival?
A Juneteenth Moment: This festival embodies the freedom and resilience Juneteenth represents—honoring the past while building cross-cultural bridges for tomorrow.

A Living Legacy: See firsthand how African traditions and diasporic creativity fuel local business growth, community empowerment, and artistic innovation.

Broad Appeal: From foodies and music lovers to art enthusiasts and families, AfroKC’s inclusive lineup resonates with everyone who calls Kansas City home.

Experience the heartbeat of Africa in Kansas City, One festival, countless connections.