AfroBeat Fest Brings Music, Culture, And Community To Military Park

This year’s AfroBeat Fest was a huge success, bringing in thousands of people to enjoy the music, food, art, and energy of African diaspora culture. The event ran all day Saturday, turning Military Park into a welcoming and exciting space filled with sound, movement, and celebration.

Over 200 vendors were selling homemade goods, clothing, and home items, plus food stands serving a variety of foods. Local DJs kept the energy high with nonstop music, as families, couples, and solo visitors made their way through rows of booths and performances.

The event, co-founded by Newark First Lady Linda Baraka, has become a summer staple in Newark. Designed to highlight the richness of African culture and community, AfroBeat Fest also creates a space for all backgrounds to come together.

“It brings together people from all walks of life; families, singles, seniors, everyone,” Baraka said in a recent interview. “What makes it especially meaningful is that it’s the only celebration of its kind in Newark and the largest in the entire state.”

For artists like Andrew Nichols, who returned to the festival after first participating before the pandemic, AfroBeat Fest is more than just a chance to showcase his work.

“You get all different types of people, all different ages, just out here enjoying the food, the art, the flavor that’s in this area,” Nichols said. “Sometimes you do shows to make money, but sometimes you do it just to have a good time. And this is one of those shows.”

Even with the heat, many attendees showed appreciation for the event’s energy and atmosphere. Lashay, a first-time visitor from just outside Newark, shared that she had been trying to attend for years.

“Every time I try to get to AfroBeat Fest, it rains,” she said. “But this time, I finally made it out on a sunny day. I’m just here to support the community and enjoy the vibes.”

All throughout the park, people were dancing, trying new foods, and taking pictures with vendors and performers. From jollof rice to soul food to frozen treats, there were plenty of options to choose from. While some came for the lineup, others were simply happy to be surrounded by culture and community.

“AfroBeat Fest is part of what makes Newark a destination for art and festivals in the state of New Jersey,” Baraka added. “You can always find something to do here.”