Get ready, Baltimore! Festival season is in full swing, and this Juneteenth weekend, the city is set to host a monumental celebration of African American culture and music. AFRAM, the largest free African American-focused festival on the East Coast, is celebrating its incredible 50th anniversary, and they’re pulling out all the stops!
A Star-Studded Lineup for a Golden Anniversary
This year’s AFRAM festival, running from Friday, June 19th, through Sunday, June 21st, in Baltimore’s historic Druid Hill Park, promises three days packed with incredible talent. Headlining the event is the legendary Charlie Wilson, ready to bring his signature soulful sound and dazzling stage presence. Fans can expect a journey through his extensive catalog, from his iconic Gap Band days to his chart-topping solo hits.
The celebration doesn’t stop there! The lineup also features the iconic ’90s R&B group SWV, the hard-hitting hip-hop trio The Lox, and Baltimore’s own R&B sensation Mario. Get ready to sing along with Tamia, who’s sure to deliver a show-stopping performance, and dance to the infectious beats of dance music legend Ultra Naté.
New Music and Local Flavor
Adding to the excitement, PJ Morton will be performing new music from his double album “Saturday Night, Sunday Morning,” which drops on Juneteenth itself! Contemporary R&B stars Normani and Chlöe Bailey are also set to deliver energetic sets, while smooth crooner J Brown will bring his mellow soul vibes to the stage.
Baltimore and the surrounding DMV area will be well-represented, with local artists like R&B diva Lil Mo, singer Paula Campbell, and multi-instrumentalist Brandon Woody (with a touch of jazz) joining the festivities. This commitment to local talent alongside national stars truly embodies the spirit of AFRAM.
- Headliner: Charlie Wilson
- R&B Icons: SWV, Tamia, Mario, Normani, Chlöe Bailey
- Hip-Hop Heat: The Lox
- New Music: PJ Morton
- Smooth Soul: J Brown
- Dance Legend: Ultra Naté
- Local Baltimore Talent: Lil Mo, Paula Campbell, Brandon Woody
A Festival for Everyone
True to its tradition, AFRAM 2026 remains completely free to attend, open to all ages, and offers something for the entire family – or as attendees affectionately call it, the “AFRAMily.” It’s a celebration of community, heritage, and the unifying power of music.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Juneteenth weekend filled with incredible music and vibrant culture, make plans to be in Baltimore for AFRAM 2026. Visit the official AFRAM website for more details and to plan your visit.
Are you planning to attend AFRAM 2026? Which artist are you most excited to see? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!