By Gabrielle Howard
AFRO Intern
ghoward@afro.com
Maryland’s annual celebration AFRAM, one of the largest African-American festivals in the country, will take place from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 22 and 23 inside Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park. (Photo courtesy of aframbaltimore.com)
AFRAM is once again returning to Baltimore, bringing with it free activities and entertainment in a celebration of all things related to Black culture, art, food, business, fashion, music and more. Talented artists like Busta Rhymes, October London and Big Daddy Kane will grace the stage during the event, which will take place from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 22 and 23 inside of Baltimore’s Druid Hill Park.
The City of Baltimore puts on AFRAM 2024 each year with the help of special partners. The two-day festival brings together the most creative and impactful voices in music and various forms of art.
Mayor Scott explained how important it is for Baltimore’s history to be celebrated as well as the community.
“As one of the largest Black arts and culture fairs on the East Coast, it gives us an opportunity to celebrate the best of Baltimore and gather together to show the world what we have to offer,” said Scott, in a statement.
The festival was founded in 1976 and has been a place to gather with the community and celebrate the diaspora of Black culture.
This year’s AFRAM will also serve as a celebration of house music, which reaches the 40-year mark in 2024. The music genre has its roots in Baltimore.
“I could not be more excited that this year we’re celebrating 40 years of house music with the help of legends like the Basement Boys and welcome fantastic artists like Busta Rhymes, Mya, Alex Isley and many, many more that will ensure there is an act for all ages on this year’s AFRAM stage,” said Scott.
There is free limited parking around Druid Hill Park, as well as on-street and in select lots near the Maryland Zoo and Druid Hill Pool.
Attendees can also grab a bite to eat close by at La Cuchara, Cosmia, or Terra Cafe while attending the event.
CANE Collective and The SEED School of Maryland are AFRAM’s partners; and WJZ-TV and 92Q Jams are AFRAM’s broadcast media sponsors.
To be a volunteer you must be 18 years old and benefits for volunteers include lunch, an AFRAM shirt and volunteer hours.
To stay up to date or learn more about AFRAM visit aframbaltimore.com for more information.
