SPECIAL TO THE RECORDER
BLACK: A Festival of Joy returns for its fourth iteration this Saturday, September 13, 2025, to Taggart Memorial Amphitheater in Riverside Park, with festivities taking place in the park from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Organized by a collective of volunteers and supported by GANGGANG, this free outdoor event is a vibrant celebration of Black culture, creativity, and joy, now an annual tradition in Indianapolis.
First held in 2022, BLACK: A Festival of Joy has grown from 1,500 attendees in its first year to over 10,000 attendees in 2024, generating an estimated $350,000 in economic impact for the Indianapolis community in just three years. In addition to presenting music, food, and art, the festival also serves as a community investment vehicle — uplifting Black-owned businesses, creatives, and cultural experiences.
Earlier this year, BLACK organizers launched the Brick by Brick Campaign — a grassroots fundraising initiative aimed at sustaining the long-term future of the festival and the broader Black Joy movement. Thanks to the generosity of local supporters, the campaign successfully raised $15,000 toward this year’s festival, helping ensure that the all-ages festival remains free and accessible for all.
“Since its inception, BLACK: A Festival of Joy has become more than just a one-day celebration — it’s created a sacred space of joy and resistance, where Black culture is honored, uplifted, and loved out loud,” said festival organizer Nigel Long. “In a world where joy can feel like a radical act, this festival continues to affirm the beauty, resilience, and brilliance of Black life. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, celebrate, and build — together. Year after year, BLACK has become a living example of what happens when community leads, culture shows up, and joy is centered on purpose.”
The 2025 event will include a lineup of live performances, interactive activations, and cultural experiences, all rooted in the belief that Black joy is necessary and worth investing in.
Main Stage Performances
- Soul Lounge Band
- Trap Orchestra
- D’yshe Mansfield
- Dead Silence
- Premium Blend
- Asante Children’s Theatre
Auxiliary Stage Lineup
- Vibez by Pheezy
- Shawndale Sharone
- Rusty Redenbacher
- Pook & 5laphouse from Club Plex
FREE Activations & Experiences
- Game Zone by ROHK
- Kids Zone with The World Famous Lamar Davis
- Drum Circle with Clint Breeze
- Chess Lounge by Inner City Chess Club
- Caricature Artist
- Yoga Session
- Midwest Leak Jiggalate Competition
- Line Dance Endurance Challenge
This Saturday, guests can also enjoy Black-owned food trucks, retail vendors, and artisan pop-ups throughout the park. Those looking to join the festivities should RSVP for free here. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the long-term sustainability of the festival can donate online.
