San Diego Urban Warriors proudly announces the return of Kuumba Fest In The Park, a vibrant celebration of Black edutainment and culture, set to take place on May 30-31, 2025, in the heart of San Diego’s emerging Black Arts and Cultural District. Now in its 33rd year, the celebration continues its mission to uplift, educate, and unite the community through creative expression, wellness, and cultural enrichment. Kuumba Fest 2025 marks the beginning of transforming Marie Wideman Park into a vibrant hub for entertainment and appreciation of Black heritage art & culture—a place to connect, learn, and thrive.
A Weekend of Purposeful Celebration
This year’s theme is: “Black 2 Action,” which centers on promoting “healthy active fit mind, body, and spirit healing through the arts.” The weekend will kick off with a Black Carpet Event and Film Screening on Friday, May 30, featuring “Generations,” a thought-provoking film by local youth mentor Travis Stocking. A special panel discussion with the filmmaker and actors will follow, held at Second Chance, 6145 Imperial Avenue from 6 PM to 9:30 PM.
On Saturday, May 31, starting at 11 AM, the celebration continues with a full day of empowering programming, including:
- African MarketPlace for vendors and Black Art Walk Experience
- Youth Theatre Performance: “I Can Pass for Invisible”
- Healthy Active Fit Obstacle Course Challenge
- Dance, Step & Cheer Showcase
- Taste of Soul Food Competition
- Ujamaa Page Awards presentation for best-tasting food in San Diego
- “Live in the Park” Finale Concert featuring San Diego’s best artists
These experiences combine performance, wellness, and education to create an inclusive environment where community members of all ages and backgrounds can participate, learn, and heal.
A Space for Healing, Growth, and Connection
“The goal of Kuumba Fest has always been to give our community a safe, empowering space to celebrate who we are, explore our creativity, and build a healthier future together,” says Dajahn A. Blevins, CEO of San Diego Urban Warriors. “We’re not just putting on a show—we’re activating the park as a cultural sanctuary, a call to action for artists and visionaries for education, movement, dialogue, and joy.”
A Call for Community Involvement
San Diego Urban Warriors invites local businesses and community members to join them by applying as vendors, performers, or sponsors. “Your participation is vital to the success of Kuumba Fest and the growth of San Diego’s new Black Arts & Cultural District,” the organization said in a press release. Join them for Kuumba Fest 2025, a celebration of healing through the arts that uplifts culture, health, and collective power.
Mark your calendars for May 30-31! For more information, visit www.SDUW.Org.