The much-anticipated African Cultural Festival Pennsylvania 2025 will take centre stage from September 19 to 20, 2025, at the historic The Forum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This grand two-day celebration of Africa’s vibrant heritage, cultural excellence, innovation, and global connection will transform the heart of Pennsylvania into a living canvas of music, art, fashion, trade, and storytelling.
With curated experiences designed to connect Africa and its diaspora, the Festival promises to be one of the most exhilarating cultural gatherings in the United States.
The Forum is an iconic architectural gem venue of historical and cultural prestige. Designed by renowned architects William Gehron and Sidney Ross and dedicated on September 16, 1931, it is the distinguished home of the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra. Constructed from gray limestone and adorned with 22 bronze doors by Lee Lawrie, each cast with intricate designs symbolising human creativity, The Forum is a fitting backdrop for this celebration of Africa’s legacy and future.
With breathtaking murals by Eric Gugler and Richard Brooks, the interiors chronicle humanity’s progress and celestial wonders—an inspiring reflection of the Festival’s vision to spotlight African excellence and innovation.
Foluke Michael, the Festival Director, confirms that festival activities will unfold inside and outside The Forum. Guests will enjoy exceptional showcases within the grand auditorium, including the Opening and Closing Concerts, Africa Arise, the Africa & Diaspora Summit, NextGen Connect, Reconnecting with African Roots, and the powerful African I.D.E.N.T.I.T.Y Art Exhibition.
Surrounding the venue, visitors will experience the colourful Taste of Africa culinary journey, the bustling ACF Marketplace, and an open-air cultural Carnival & Concert featuring music, fashion, and dance from across the continent and the diaspora. The atmosphere will be alive with creativity, networking, trade, and joyful cultural immersion.
The Festival’s Global Lead and Founder, Wole Adeniyi, stated that
“the African Cultural Festival Pennsylvania 2025 will draw a distinguished and diverse audience, including Pennsylvania state officials, U.S. policymakers, African leaders, international businesses, cultural icons, creative entrepreneurs, youth innovators, and the broader African and African-American communities. It will be a powerful platform for cross-continental engagement, heritage reconnection, and economic empowerment.”
The African Cultural Festival will position Africa as a powerful force shaping the future. With Harrisburg as the launchpad, the African Cultural Festival 2025 is poised to ignite global dialogue, celebrate cultural wealth, and unlock new opportunities for unity, innovation, and transformation.