BALTIMORE, MD (WEAA) — Baltimore’s 2021 AFRAM festival is kicking off Sunday, August 15 with a jam-packed week of virtual and in-person events.
AFRAM is recognized as one of the largest African-American cultural arts festival on the East Coast.
This year, the celebration includes a gallery, bike party, skate night and virtual concerts.
AFRAM is also introducing AFRAM Restaurant Week. Starting August 15-22, participating Black-owned restaurants will offer specific dishes and/or beverages for festival goers to enjoy.
"We want the residents of Baltimore and beyond to not only recognize, but experience the amount of brainstorming, effort and care that went into the execution of this years' AFRAM Festival," said Reginald Moore, executive director of Baltimore City Recreation and Parks. "I am so proud to have a team of hard workers, a support system in Mayor Scott and the Baltimore City Council, partners who are always willing to lend us a hand, and a city of residents who are as passionate about the AFRAM Festival as we are. I cannot wait for everyone to see what we have in store"
Sunday, August 15 (virtual)
Sunday Dinner with the #AFRAMILY: Sunday dinner is a cultural staple in many Black households. So join Mayor Scott and Chef Sean Guy of Water for Chocolate as they cook up one of their favorite Sunday meals. This cooking segment is followed by Around the Table with AFRAM where soul food and Baltimore staples (four wings/western fries, fried or broiled crab cakes, vegan mac 'n' cheese) are brought to the table and discussed with beloved Baltimoreans DJ Angel Baby, Raven Paris, Faraji Muhammed, and Aaron Dante of No Pix After Dark.
Time: 6-8PM How to watch: CharmTV broadcast Channel 25/CharmTV Online
Monday, August 16 (in-person)
AFRAM Gallery: Art lovers get the opportunity to journey through the historic Druid Hill Park which will be transformed into an in-person art showcase. On view are photos and history of AFRAM's past, among other art submissions. Guests get to enjoy live performances from Rufus Roundtree, Janelia Soul and offerings from other local talent and makers.
Time: 6-9PM Location: Druid Hill Park
Tuesday, August 17 (in-person)
AFRAM Movie Night: One of the best parts of the annual AFRAM Festival is its ability to bring the entire family together. Join the AFRAM team and other movie lovers at Herring Run Park for a double feature of A Wrinkle in Time and One Night in Miami. Each feature is followed by a panel discussion by local black filmmakers. Guests can spread out with blankets, food, drinks and enjoy the evening.
Time: 6-11PM Location: Herring Run Park
Wednesday, August 18 (in-person)
AFRAM Bike Party: We encourage our #AFRAMILY to join their favorite bike organization and join in a bike ride to or in Druid Hill Park. Please note: a portion of the park will be closed off from vehicular traffic and the back roads will close at 8PM. After the ride, gather at Druid Hill Park for an after-party to celebrate community with food, shopping with local makers and music by DJ Ty Alexander.
Time: 6-10PM Location: Druid Hill Park
Thursday, August 19 (in-person)
AFRAM Alfresco: The Baltimore AFRAM Festival is happy to include Youth Resiliency Institute, producers of the Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival as one of our AFRAM 2021 partners. Come join the fun at Middle Branch Park, nestled in the historic Cherry Hill neighborhood and experience Baltimore's best local talent, while sampling some of Charm City's awesome mobile cuisine. Enjoy sounds with DJ Mighty Mark and a rebroadcast of the Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival from 3-5PM followed by live performances with some of Baltimore's favorites like Navasha Daya, international soul singer Maysa and many more.
Time: 3-10PM Location: Middle Branch Park
Friday, August 20 (in-person)
Friday Nite at Shake & Bake: The official AFRAM party gets started at the historic Shake & Bake Family Fun Center with skating, bowling, fun, food, and music. Attendees can also enjoy a live concert from musician Pariz, known for dominating the airwaves of WPGC 95.5, WERQ 92.3 and Power 92, among other fun surprises. Admission and skate rentals are free for this event.
Time: Youth & Family Skate 5-7PM Adult Skate 7-10PM Location: Shake & Bake Family Fun Center
Saturday, August 21 (virtual)
AFRAM Concert Day 1: The wait is finally over as day 1 of the AFRAM Concert kicks off with sounds from Mooski, Wale and Busta Rhymes. Grab your friends, some snacks and tune into the show from your smartphone, tablet, computer or television and enjoy from the comfort of your home, the car or wherever you are.
Time: 6-9PM Where to enjoy: CharmTV website, broadcast (Channel 25), WJZ Online
Sunday, August 22 (virtual)
AFRAM Concert Day 2: Get your week off to the right start with the final day of the 2021 AFRAM Festival. Sunday's entertainment is brought to viewers by legendary vocalists Smokie Norful, Marsha Ambrosius and Chaka Khan. Guests can enjoy the end of the festival from anywhere there's web or television access.
Time: 6-9PM Where to enjoy: CharmTV website/broadcast (Channel 25), WJZ Online.
