Join us as we come together for a weekend of unity, culture and celebration at the 33rd Annual Umoja Festival – a beloved tradition on the Portsmouth Waterfront! “Umoja” means unity in Kiswahili, and that spirit shines bright throughout this family-friendly festival honoring African-American culture and heritage.
We’ll kick off the weekend with an opening ceremony rooted in African tradition, and wrap up with a soul-stirring Gospel Jubilee featuring top musical talent from across Hampton Roads.
Bring the whole family to enjoy:
▪️ Live musical performances
▪️ Delicious international cuisine
▪️ A bustling marketplace with handcrafted art & jewelry
▪️ African-American heritage tours
▪️ Workshops, arts & crafts
▪️ Activities for the kids
▪️ A joyful, welcoming space for all
▪️ And so much more!
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2025 Festival Lineup
Friday, May 23
▪️ 5:30pm | Opening Ceremony
▪️ 6:15pm | Pointe of Vue
▪️ 8:00pm | Seamless
▪️ 9:45pm | Revelation
Saturday, May 24
▪️ 1:00pm | Joselyn Best
▪️ 2:15pm | Phazz II
▪️ 3:30pm | RaJazz
▪️ 4:45pm | Strictly Bizzness
▪️ 6:00pm | 2nd Wynd
▪️ 8pm | Kool & the Gang with B. Michelle and DJ BEE
Sunday, May 25
▪️ 2:00pm | Fully Committed
▪️ 2:45pm | Kenny Mayo
▪️ 3:30pm | Dawson Town Community Choir
▪️ 4:20pm | Chi and Company
▪️ 5:05pm | GMWA Tidewater Choir
The festival and all performances are free and open to the public, with the exception of Kool & the Gang with B. Michelle and DJ BEE, a ticketed event at the adjacent Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion. Tickets for this performance may be purchased at PavilionConcerts.com.
Learn more about this year's Umoja Festival:
https://www.umojafestportsmouth.com/
Also check out other Festivals in Portsmouth, Music events in Portsmouth.
