Africatown Philadelphia

Africatown Summer Series: May–September

The Africatown Summer Series is Philadelphia’s signature celebration of the Global African diaspora culture. From May through September, Africatown transforms into a vibrant destination where families, entrepreneurs, artists, and cultural leaders gather to honor the traditions that connect Global Africa Diaspora.

Anchored by major festivals, business and cultural celebrations, the Summer Series showcases the full spectrum of the Global African Diaspora excellence. Each event adds a unique layer to the story of Africatown, from music and food to investment and innovation, from ancestral heritage to modern cultural expression.

Africatown Diaspora Festival

Launched in 2026 as part of the 250^th celebration to commemorate the independence of the USA, the Africatown Diaspora Festival is an explosion of culture and a vibrant celebration of unity, cultural pride, and the richness of the Global African Diaspora. This dynamic music and dance festival brings together artists from the US, Caribbean, Africa to showcase the power of art to connect people and honor shared heritage. Festival‑goers experience an immersive blend of live performances, local talent,  vendors, and authentic Global African Diaspora cuisine that reflects the flavors and creativity of our communities.

Africatown Diaspora Ball

The Diaspora Ball is the season’s most elegant night, a formal celebration of the Global African Diaspora achievements, leadership, and artistry. Guests arrive in stunning cultural attire, honoring tradition while celebrating the future of the diaspora.

Africatown Investment Forum

The Investment Forum is where culture meets commerce. Entrepreneurs, investors, and global partners gather to explore opportunities in the US, African and Caribbean markets, diaspora‑driven ventures, and community‑centered development. It’s a space for ideas, strategy, and long‑term impact.

ACANA Fest

Founded in 2007 as a neighborhood street celebration in Southwest Philadelphia, the ACANA Festival has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated cultural showcases within the PECO Multicultural Series—Philadelphia’s signature lineup of free outdoor summer events presented by PECO Energy and the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. Each year, the festival transforms the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing into a vibrant celebration of Global African culture, welcoming up to 8,000 attendees and more than 45 vendors. Over the years, ACANA has hosted an extraordinary roster of international stars, including Bracket, Davido, Flavour N’abania, Pape Diouf, Timaya, Yemi Alade, Sharon Katz & The Peace Train, Kobazzie, Wande Coal, and more.

Cultural Heritage Celebrations

Throughout the season, Africatown hosts a lineup of cultural events at the Bridge Garden on 5500 Chester Avenue to honor the diverse nations and traditions of the Global African diaspora. These celebrations highlight language, music, food, and storytelling and strengthen the cultural bonds that define Africatown.