Black to the Future
On June 14, Washington Park will be more than a gathering place—it will become a launchpad. Not for rockets or drones, but for dreams, stories, and futures reimagined. That’s the promise of the 2025 Midwest Regional Black Culture Fest, an exuberant, unapologetically celebratory event curated by the National Commission for Black Arts & Entertainment (NCBAE). The theme this year? Black to the Future—a phrase that pulses with creativity, Afrofuturist energy, and a mission to honor the past while catapulting Black culture into the future it deserves.
At a time when cultural expression is often commodified or confined, this festival breaks barriers and builds bridges. It's not just a collection of performances and booths—it's a living, breathing declaration that Black culture is not only thriving but driving innovation in art, fashion, finance, and more.
Reimagining Time, Reclaiming Space
The phrase “Black to the Future” draws on the spirit of Afrofuturism, a genre and cultural movement that repositions Black voices in science fiction, technology, and speculative narratives. It’s about rewriting the scripts we’ve inherited—placing Black excellence not only in ancestral memory but also in the realms of possibility and progress. That guiding principle shapes every element of the festival.
The National Commission for Black Arts & Entertainment (NCBAE), the event’s organizer, lives this ethos year-round. Founded in 2020 as a 501(c)(3), the commission champions visibility, connection, and support for Black creatives. Whether it’s through mentorship programs, arts-based youth outreach, or institutional partnerships (like their recent collaboration with the Taft Museum of Art), NCBAE is making sure Black artists aren’t just seen—they’re centered.
Soundtracks of Resilience
Live performances are the lifeblood of any cultural festival, and this one is set to be electric. Music, dance, spoken word, and even roller-skating routines will pulse through the park all afternoon. These aren’t just entertainments—they’re testaments to endurance and evolution.
Local and regional musicians will bring their sounds to the stage, fusing traditional rhythms with contemporary beats. Spoken word artists will use poetry as both resistance and revelation. The dance showcases promise to blend cultural roots with modern choreography. And yes—there’s a skating performance, because joy on wheels is a kind of revolution, too.
The Revolution Will Be Runway-Ready
Fashion isn’t just about fabric—it’s about identity. That’s the message behind the CultureRush Fashion Show, curated by Cincinnati’s own Alishia Lee, founder of Me By Lee. Known for her inclusive designs that celebrate diverse bodies and styles, Lee’s show will spotlight Black designers making waves across the region.
Hair takes center stage too with the Sweet & Natural Hair Show led by Glam Monèt’s Shabrina Monèt. As a licensed loctician and beauty expert, Monèt’s showcase will honor the artistry and cultural significance of natural Black hair—a crown worn proudly and often politically.
Together, these shows challenge outdated beauty norms and amplify self-expression as activism.
Panels With Purpose
The Black Money Matters panel will be a critical stop for festivalgoers. This isn’t just a conversation about budgeting—it’s a deep dive into economic sovereignty. Entrepreneurs, financial experts, and cultural leaders will discuss generational wealth, homeownership, and creative ways to circulate dollars within Black communities. In a world where access often defines opportunity, this panel is all about breaking barriers—and building legacy.
Honoring the Present, Elevating the Future
One of the most poignant moments of the day will be the presentation of the BCF & Elevated Artist Awards. These honors recognize Black creatives who are using their platforms to uplift, disrupt, and inspire. It’s a chance to pause and honor those whose work is reshaping the artistic and cultural landscape—not just for accolades, but for impact.
Something for Everyone
True to its mission, the festival is entirely family-friendly. Kids can enjoy face painting and interactive activities, while adults explore vendor booths offering everything from art to Afrocentric clothing to holistic wellness products. Every booth is an invitation: come support, come learn, come connect.
These vendors aren’t just part of the scenery—they are the ecosystem. Black-owned businesses will line the walkways, offering visitors a chance to invest directly in the community. From handmade crafts to ethically sourced skincare, this is conscious consumerism at its finest.
In a country still grappling with how to tell its full story, the Midwest Regional Black Culture Fest isn’t asking permission. It’s reclaiming narrative, space, and possibility. It’s saying that Black history is American history, that Black futures deserve funding and fanfare, and that joy can be as radical as protest.
Cincinnati, take note: Washington Park isn’t just hosting an event. It’s hosting a movement.
For more information, follow @midwestblackculturefest on Instagram or visit the official AllEvents page for the full schedule.