Join us as we come together for a weekend of unity, culture and celebration at the 34th 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!
2026 Festival Lineup
Friday, May 22
- 5:30pm | Opening Ceremony
- 6:15pm | RaJazz
- 8:00pm | Groove Crew Band
- 9:45pm | Tobias Cortez and the Quest Band
Saturday, May 23
- 1:00pm | The Jukebox Band VA
- 2:15pm | Point of Vue
- 3:30pm | Brandon Roberts
- 4:45pm | TFC Band
- 6:00pm | Revelation
- 8:00pm | Denim & Diamonds Southern Soul All-White Spring Fest with guests King George & Marcellus the Singer with Fat Daddy, and special guests K. Morris, D’Vito, Money Train, and DJ Truck
Sunday, May 24
- 2:00pm | Demetri Chester and Company
- 2:45pm | Ricky White & Believers Kamp
- 3:30pm | Kimala M. Brady and Proclaim
- 4:20pm | Joe Baker & Refuge Nation Church Choir
- 5:10pm | St. Pauls Baptist Celebration Choir
- 5:35pm | Chi and Company
The festival and all performances are free and open to the public, with the exception of Denim & Diamonds Southern Soul All-White Spring Fest, a ticketed event at the adjacent Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion. Tickets for this performance may be purchased at https://pavilionconcerts.com/
