Ann Arbor African American Downtown Festival

07/25/2026

“Uncle Charlie”, Charlie Wilson will be at the Aretha on July 25!! Grab your tickets 🎟️ today!!!

07/25/2026

Robert Glasper & Bilal, August 12th Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre for Jazzy Wednesday’s.

🚨 JUST ANNOUNCED! 🚨

Bilal is joining Robert Glasper at The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre on August 12! 🎶✨

🎟️ Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/08006375BB346F1B

06/10/2026

Thank you everyone for your support at the Ann Arbor African American Downtown Festival. This event is absolutely amazing every year. Thank you for having Family Delight Popcorn for the third year in a row.

I had the pleasure of meeting Chico DeBarge . He was so chill and had a great performance.

06/09/2026

06/09/2026

06/09/2026

❤️ THANK YOU, ANN ARBOR! ❤️
The 29th Annual Ann Arbor African American Downtown Festival was absolutely incredible!
From our headliner Mr. Chico DeBarge of the legendary DeBarge family to the amazing live bands to the music spun by our talented local Ann Arbor DJs, the atmosphere was filled with energy, joy, and community spirit all day long. It was wonderful to see people dancing, singing along, connecting with friends and family, and supporting our outstanding vendors and community organizations.
The family atmosphere made the day feel truly special, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make this celebration a success.
A heartfelt thank you to our:
🌟 Sponsors
🌟 Vendors
🌟 Performers
🌟 Volunteers
🌟 Elected Officials & Candidates
🌟 Community Partners & Trailblazers
🌟 Public Safety Personnel
🌟 Festival Committee Members
🌟 Attendees
Your support, participation, and enthusiasm are what keep this beloved tradition thriving year after year.
For 29 years, the Ann Arbor African American Downtown Festival has celebrated our history, culture, resilience, and community. We are honored to continue the legacy of Mrs. Porter and look forward to celebrating with you again next year.

With gratitude,
Ann Arbor African American Downtown Festival Committee

06/05/2026

Special thank you to our amazing sponsors your support means everything to us!!

Presenting Sponsors
*Washtenaw County Administration
*City of Ann Arbor
*Destination Ann Arbor
*MCEC
*NANBPWC, Inc. – Ann Arbor Club

Community Sponsors
*Colorful Events
*Zingerman's Community Events
*The People's Food Co-op
*We Rock The Spectrum Gym

06/05/2026

🏆✨ COMMUNITY TRAILBLAZERS AWARDS ✨🏆

**29TH ANNUAL ANN ARBOR AFRICAN AMERICAN DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL**

**Honoring Those Who Have Made a Lasting Impact on Our Community**

Join us as we celebrate outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and dedication have helped shape Ann Arbor and uplift our community.

🌟 **2026 COMMUNITY TRAILBLAZER AWARDEES** 🌟

🏆 **Ann Arbor Housing Commission & Breyko**
For their commitment to affordable housing, resident empowerment, and the Emmy-nominated film *A Letter to the Westside*.

🏆 **Community Leadership Council (CLC)**
For their work on affordable housing & Dunbar Tower and their fostering community engagement, resident leadership, and advocacy throughout Ann Arbor.

🏆 **NANBPWC, Inc. – Ann Arbor Club**
For decades of service, youth development, educational initiatives, economic empowerment, and community leadership.

🏆 **Justin Harper**
For outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to improving the lives of others in our community.

🏆 **Anthony Williamson**
For his commitment to community development, mentorship, and positive impact throughout Ann Arbor.

🏆 **Rev. John O. Jackson – Washtenaw County PeaceNic**
For promoting peace, unity, community engagement, and bringing residents and law enforcement together through meaningful outreach and service.

🏆 **Dr. Willis C. Patterson (Posthumous Recognition)**
Honoring the extraordinary legacy of a trailblazing educator, musician, cultural ambassador, and community icon whose influence continues to inspire generations.

🏆 **David Malcolm**
**REALTOR OF THE YEAR**
Recognized for excellence in real estate, community involvement, and commitment to helping families achieve homeownership and housing stability.

📅 **Saturday, June 6**
📍 **Main Stage – Ann Arbor African American Downtown Festival**

**Celebrating Excellence • Leadership • Legacy • Service**

*AADF Mission: “Honoring those who paved the way while inspiring future generations."*

06/05/2026

06/05/2026

The Festival Lineup includes great music all day long while you celebrate history, fellowship with community and support the local businesses, entrepreneurs and artists at AADF 2026!