Since 2014, Madaraka Festival has attracted more than 12,000 patrons & reached over 15 million people digitally while empowering diversity and inclusion in the Seattle community. Madaraka Festival has uniquely deepened the relationship between African, African American communities, and fostered partnerships with other international communities while shifting narrative and honoring cultural dynamics. In 2019, this international cultural extravaganza was a culmination of an entire week of activities in Kisumu, Kenya where One Vibe Africa originated. In 2020, Madaraka happened virtually and raised seed capital for 106 women who run small scale businesses in three Kenyan slums. Madaraka provided an opportunity for nearly 100 African-Americans to participate in cross-cultural exchange programs. In 2021, Madaraka Festival was held at Bellevue Youth Theater’s outdoor amphitheater headlined by Grammy Award nominated reggae legend, Pato Banton as part of his world peace tour.

This year, Madaraka Festival will honor African and African American culture while elevating their voices and creating community cohesion. The founder of One Vibe Africa and Madaraka Festival Simon Javan Okelo, has curated a lineup that will be unveiled as we get closer to the date of the event. We are excited to come together in the spirit of unity to collaborate with Converge Media, Common Good Church, RVC Seattle, Langston Seattle, Wa Na Wari, N333D Creative, NW Film Forum, NW Folklife Festival, and other organizations, sponsors, and partners to bring to you the 2022 Madaraka Festival. Additionally, Wednesday, May 25th during Africa Day will mark the beginning of the online campaign, which will culminate with the Madaraka Festival on August 13th and 14th.

DATE: Saturday, August 13th and Sunday August 14th, 2022
TIME: 2:00pm PST
VENUE: Pier 62 at Waterfront Park in Seattle
TICKETS: FREE with RSVP and all Ages