Founded in 2018, Black Arts Fest MKE has been a wonderful addition to the city’s busy summer festival season. The event will return to Henry Maier Festival Park on Saturday, August 1. Fashion, literature, heritage, health, wellness, community, and cuisine are just a few of the areas the fest focuses on. Like many other festivals, Black Arts Fest MKE also emphasizes music, art (it’s in the name, after all!), and other forms of entertainment. And there’s a lot of fun in store at this year’s edition.

As you gear up for the 2026 installment of the festival (and while you prepare to purchase tickets), you can check out the Black Arts Fest MKE entertainment lineup below. You can also find the lineup on Black Arts Fest MKE’s website.

Aurora Pavilion

• 12:30 p.m. — Opening Ceremony
• 1:00 p.m. — Blues And Soul: Big E, Hollywood The Classic, Coldrank, Emjay & Star Redd
• 4:00 p.m. — Michael Jackson Tribute By Brew City Soul
• 5:30 p.m. — Divine 9 Party
• 7:00 p.m. — Latimore Brothers
• 8:00 p.m. — Dave Hollister

Cultural Stage

1:00 p.m. — Black Hollywood Panel: Christopher’s Project Featuring D. Rose
2:00 p.m. — Breakdance Cypher With Legendary “Turbo” Boogaloo Shrimp
2:30 p.m. — Poetry Unplugged
4:30 p.m. — Black Hollywood Films Karaoke + Winner Announcement
5:30 p.m. — Gospel Music Celebration

Family Village & Kids Area

• 1:00 p.m. — Homer Blow/Welcome
• 1:30 p.m. — Just Us & Books With Dannette Justus
• 2:00 p.m. — Signature Dance Company
• 2:30 p.m. — Yung MKE
• 3:00 p.m. — African Family Fashion Show
• 4:00 p.m. — African Drum & Dance
• 4:45 p.m. — DJ Homer Blow – Michael Jackson Dance Contest

All Day

• Black Hollywood Experience. Panel Discussion And Film Karaoke Challenge
• Pop Ups With Pops: A Celebration Of Black Fatherhood
• Paint And Sip Sessions: Hosted By Grey House Creative Market
• Classic Car Show
• Horse Rides With The Buffalo Soldiers (Milwaukee Chapter)