The late author Alex Haley introduced Kunta Kinte to the world after tracing his ancestral roots, which began in Africa and led to the waters of Annapolis, Maryland, in 1767. Thirty-five years later after its founding, the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival still celebrates the perseverance, education and cultural heritage of the African Diaspora. Traditionally, the free, multigenerational festival packed full of music, dance, education and performances was held at Susan Campbell Park at Annapolis City Dock. However, the 35th Annual Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium Blue Lot, located in Annapolis, Maryland. This marks the second year it will be held at the new location.
“The new venue offers increased space, improved accessibility, and expanded parking options, making it easier for families and community members to enjoy the festival from start to finish. It also provides more flexibility for staging, vendors, and performances,” said Kevin Smith, co-chair of the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival Planning Committee.
Smith said that this year, the festival theme is “Afrofuturism: Rooted in Heritage, Reaching for Tomorrow.”
Courtesy photo
“We’ll be celebrating this through art, music, fashion, tech exhibits, storytelling, and performances that honor the past while dreaming boldly for the future.”
“In a time where representation and vision matter, Afrofuturism allows us to reclaim our stories, innovate without limits, and uplift the next generation. It’s a perfect fit for our 35th year, as we continue to evolve while staying deeply rooted in the legacy of Kunta Kinte and the broader African diaspora,” Smith added.
A 2025 festival goal is to highlight innovation in Black culture while honoring our roots.
“We’re expanding opportunities for youth engagement, interactive exhibits, and performances that speak to both legacy and future,” Smith said.
Photo credit: Kevin Smith
He mentioned that youth-led performances, educational activities, and a dedicated youth zone with creative workshops and mentorship opportunities will be incorporated to allow young people to feel empowered and inspired by their heritage.
Another Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival goal is to highlight innovation in Black culture while honoring African American roots. Interactive exhibits, and performances that speak to both legacy and future will be integrated into the festival day.
Stansbury stated that the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival’s Planning Committee is proud to feature a diverse lineup of performers that reflect cultural richness.
Photo credit: Robert Hector
“Headliners this year include Jon B., Harvey Watkins, Jr. and the Canton Spirituals. and In Gratitude Earth Wind & Fire tribute band. Also, renowned African drumming and dance troupes; national and regional gospel and soul artists; spoken word performers; and youth-led music and dance groups will participate. Each act is carefully curated to align with our theme and celebrate both tradition and innovation in the arts.”
Smith said that some of the most popular items of prior Kunta Kinte Heritage Festivals include African-inspired clothing and jewelry; natural beauty products; hand-crafted art; books by Black authors; soul food; Caribbean cuisine; and cultural keepsakes. Small businesses, artists, and food vendors are still being encouraged to apply to vend at this year’s festival.
“Last year, we welcomed approximately 7,000 attendees from all over the region. The support and enthusiasm from the community continue to grow each year,” Smith explained.
Courtesy photo
David Stansbury, Smith’s Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival’s Planning Committee co-chair, said that the community can get involved to make the event a success by becoming vendors, volunteers, sponsors, or simply by spreading the word about the upcoming event. Families are encouraged to attend the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival together. Local businesses are encouraged to partner.
“It takes a village to sustain something this meaningful, and we welcome all who want to play a role in making this festival a success. It is important to keep the festival going because the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival is more than just a celebration—it’s a living legacy.”
“It honors the story of Kunta Kinte and the resilience of African people, while uplifting the voices, art, and entrepreneurship of today’s Black community. Keeping this festival going means preserving history, building unity, and creating a space where generations can come together in pride and purpose,” Stansbury remarked.
Visit https://www.kuntakinte.org for more information.
