Afro Beat Fest 2026

July 10th – 11th

Military Park – Broad Street & Park Place, Newark NJ

Afro Beat Fest is Newark’s annual family-friendly block party celebrating African diaspora culture: music, fashion, food, dance, art, crafts and so much more. This year, the festival has leveled up to two full days of nonstop energy. They’ve added soccer activations for the players and fans, live performances that will get you moving and dozens of food and artisan vendors serving up everything from savory bites to handmade treasures. You’ll also find cultural experiences and hands-on activities that bring people together in an authentic way.

Whether you come to dance until you lose track of time, eat your way through West African dishes, shop for that perfect piece you won’t find anywhere else or simply hang out and let the rhythm soak into your bones, Afro Beat Fest has a place for you. It’s a joyful, grounded celebration of how music and community connect us. No passports required, just an open spirit and maybe some comfortable shoes.

Upcoming Festivals 2026

The city of festivals has you covered.

Newark Pride Fest’s 2026 theme, “Our Bodies. Our Stories. Our POWER!”, is a bold affirmation of autonomy, truth, and collective liberation.

It declares that LGBTQ+ people—especially Black, Brown, femme, trans, and gender-expansive communities—are the rightful authors of their own lives. Our BODIES are ours to protect, celebrate, and define.

Newark Pride

The Lincoln Park Music Festival (LPMF) is a festival week featuring House, Hip Hop, R&B, Gospel, Technology, Digital Media and Music Education.

Bringing together a lively mix of sounds and culture in Newark’s historic neighborhood, making it a great spot to explore different musical styles in one place. Alongside the music, local vendors, and family-friendly activities for all ages.

LP Music Festival

Halsey Fest is a free, open-to-the-public outdoor celebration. The family-friendly festival includes vendor markets, live performances, local businesses, food and activities.

The annual festival on downtown Newark’s historic Halsey Street attracts hundreds! The festival features DJs, bands, performances, a fashion show, art activities, interactive games, and more!

Halsey Fest

Halsey Fest is a free, open-to-the-public outdoor celebration. The family-friendly festival includes vendor markets, live performances, local businesses, food and activities.

The annual Halsey Festival on downtown Newark’s historic Halsey Street attracts hundreds! The festival will feature DJs, bands, performances, a fashion show, art activities, interactive games, and much more!

Newark Arts