Umoja Fest 2025: Johnny Gill, Cupid, and Mr. Cheeks to Ignite Seattle's Central District
Seattle, WA – Get ready to experience the vibrant heart of Black culture as Umoja Fest, the Northwest's premier celebration, returns to Judkins Park on August 2nd and 3rd, 2025! This year's festival promises an unforgettable weekend headlined by none other than R&B icon Johnny Gill, with special performances by the "Line Dance King" Cupid and Grammy-winning hip-hop legend Mr. Cheeks of The Lost Boyz.
A Star-Studded Lineup You Won't Want to Miss!
Prepare to be serenaded by the timeless voice of Johnny Gill, a Grammy-nominated vocalist and platinum-selling artist known for his hits like "My, My, My" and "Rub You the Right Way." A proud member of New Edition and LSG, Gill will close out the festival with a highly anticipated set on Sunday, August 3rd, at 6:00 PM.
Joining him on stage are two dynamic performers:
Cupid: Get ready to move! The creator of the viral "Cupid Shuffle" and his current hit "Flex," Cupid will bring his electrifying energy to the stage on August 2nd.
Mr. Cheeks: Representing the iconic group The Lost Boyz, the Grammy-winning hip-hop legend Mr. Cheeks will deliver a powerful performance on August 3rd.
More Than Just Music: A Rich Cultural Experience
Hailed as "The Soul of Seafair," Umoja Fest is a multi-generational celebration of African American resilience and heritage. The festivities kick off with the Umoja Fest Parade on Saturday, August 2nd, at 1:00 PM, marching from 23rd Avenue & Cherry Street south to Jackson Street.
Following the parade, Judkins Park will transform into a hub of family-friendly programming and cultural immersion, including:
The Soul of the City Stage, curated by Dope Culture, featuring diverse musical talents.
The "Collegiate Couture" Fashion Show, produced by Unika Guilmet for BeUnique Agency, showcasing innovative designs.
Engaging activities like Vibe Bingo, Line Dance Zones, and Live DJs to keep the energy high.
Over 100 Retail & Food Vendors & Resource Booths offering a wide array of goods and community information.
A dedicated Children's Village, presented by ADEFUA Cultural Education Workshop, ensuring fun for the youngest attendees.
Unity, Joy, and Collective Power
"Umoja means unity," shared festival organizers. "At a time when our community is facing rising challenges, this festival is about joy, healing, and collective power. This year's lineup is a celebration of Black excellence past, present, and future."
Umoja Fest 2025 is made possible by the generous support of title sponsor King County Equity Now, presenting sponsor Amazon, and other vital partners including UW Medicine, Africatown Community Land Trust, Umpqua Bank, City of Seattle Office of Arts & Culture, City of Seattle Parks & Recreation Get Moving, Seattle Roots Community Health, Byrd Barr Place, Providence-Swedish, and Community Passageways.
Event Details:
Location: Judkins Park, 2150 S Norman St, Seattle, WA
Dates: Saturday-Sunday, August 2-3, 2025
Admission: FREE with Ticket RSVP at: bit.ly/umojafest2025
More Info: www.umojafestnw.com
Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate Black culture, community, and heritage at Umoja Fest 2025! This is an event you won't want to miss.
