The largest African American street festival in North America, ODUNDE Festival, is back, and it is celebrating 50 years this summer.
With half a century of history, this event is far more than simply a gathering. From its humble beginnings in South Philly, this vibrant celebration of African and African American culture has transformed into a massive, globally recognized street party that brings together tens of thousands from all walks of life.
The 50th anniversary is a testament to ODUNDE’s enduring impact. This festival, held each year on the second Sunday in June, is a homecoming for Philadelphia’s African-American community, transforming South Street into a bustling African marketplace, where locals can shop from artisans, dance to live music, and savor authentic flavors.
The event is highlighted by a colorful procession from 23rd and South Street to the Schuylkill River, where an offering of fruit and flowers is made to Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of the river.
ODUNDE festival, which has become a Black Philly tradition, fosters a sense of belonging, particularly in historically Black neighborhoods affected by gentrification.
This year, events will kick off on June 1, and the celebration will culminate on Sunday, June 8, with the festival spanning 16 city blocks in South Philadelphia, featuring two stages of live entertainment, global cuisine, and over 150 vendors from around the world. The festival promises an unforgettable day of Black joy and unity.
Hip-hop legends Doug E. Fresh and Rakim will headline the 2025 festival.
According to odundefestival.org, the festival contributes an estimated $30 million to the Pennsylvania economy and $28 million to the City of Philadelphia while serving as a global model for African American festivals.
Where does the money go? ODUNDE is a non-profit organization. The funds generated by the festival will go toward ODUNDE365, which provides yoga, dance, fashion, karate, fitness, videography, and other programs for Philadelphia youth.
What to Expect at the ODUNDE Festival
Here is everything you need to know about the festival:
Street closures
With thousands expected to attend, navigating Center City will require some patience. A festival of this magnitude will necessitate some road closures. So, ensure you grab comfortable shoes before heading out. The festival primarily takes place around South Street & 23rd Street, so expect closures in Grays Ferry, Center City, and South Philly.
Photo source: Facebook / The Official Odunde Festival
ODUNDE Festival Procession
The day kicks off at noon with a colorful procession as hundreds of ODUNDE Festival celebrants parade several blocks along South Street en route to the Schuylkill River, where an offering of fruit and flowers is made to Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of the river.
Food and drinks
A day full of traditional food, with a variety of vendors rarely seen at other regional festivals, will be offering all sorts of traditional African, Caribbean, Brazilian, and soul food among the 15 blocks of the festival.
Entertainment and other activities
There will be live music and performances spanning Black, African, Caribbean, and South American cultures. There will be programs throughout the festival week, from Yoga classes to African business roundtables.
Arts and crafts
ODUNDE is known for its authentic African marketplace featuring more than 100 vendors selling handmade goods, including jewelry, artwork, and clothing from African nations, the Caribbean, and Brazil.
Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia
Event Schedule for ODUNDE Festival
- Sunday, June 1 – ODUNDE365 Yoga: A community yoga session in a Philadelphia park
- Monday, June 2 – “Convo with the CEO” The Trailblazer Edition: A powerful panel with radio legends Lady B, Patty Jackson, and Mimi Brown.
- Tuesday, June 3 – Learn, Listen, Connect: A networking and mentorship event for rising young professionals.
- Wednesday, June 4 – Afrobeats and Vibes: A lively mixer presented by BUMI Productions and The Wine Gardens.
- Thursday, June 5 – ODUNDE V.I.P. and dignitaries reception.
- Friday, June 6 – African and Caribbean Business Roundtables: Two powerhouse sessions featuring ambassadors and dignitaries.
- Saturday, June 7 – Lois Lunches: A tribute to founder Lois Fernandez, spotlighting small business innovation.
- Sunday, June 8 – The ODUNDE Festival: The grand finale. This iconic celebration of African and African-American culture will transform South Street into a global celebration of Black joy, art, and culture. People show up in their various West African prints and styles, ready to take part in the celebration.
The History of ODUNDE
ODUNDE was founded in 1975 by the late Lois Fernandez and Ruth Arthur with just a $100 grant and grassroots community support.
Its roots trace back to the Yoruba people of Nigeria, West Africa, and mark the coming of a new year for people of African descent across the globe. Fernandez, a former social worker, was inspired to put on the festival after embarking on a Yoruba pilgrimage during a trip to West Africa three years prior.
Today, it draws over 500,000 attendees annually.
Under the passionate and purposeful leadership of Oshunbumi “Bumi” Fernandez-West, daughter of co-founder Lois Fernandez, the ODUNDE Festival continues to thrive today, as she passionately carries on her mother’s vision.
“Fifty years of ODUNDE is not just a milestone—it’s a movement,” said Fernandez-West.
