PORTSMOUTH, Va.(WAVY)– The City of Portsmouth is gearing up for the 33rd Annual Umoja festival.

Established in 1991, Umoja, meaning “unity” in Kiswahili, celebrates African American culture, heritage and community spirit. Portsmouth City Council remains committed in honoring the cultural diversity of the festival through music, food, art, and tradition.

“The Umoja Festival is one of the longest-running cultural events of its kind in the country, and we’re excited to welcome residents and visitors alike to celebrate with us on Portsmouth’s beautiful waterfront,” said Shannon Glover, Mayor of the City of Portsmouth. 

The free, family- friendly festival is set to take place May 23-25 at the Festival Park on the Portsmouth Waterfront. The festival is set to open with the African tradition of requesting permission from the elders, setting the tone for a weekend of unity and celebration. It will close with a Gospel Jubilee showing the talent of Hampton Roads natives.

More festival highlights include free live performances from bands like Seamless, Revelation, Strictly Business and 2nd Wynd. Attendees will enjoy cultural workshops, heritage tours and exhibits honoring African-American traditions. A variety of international food vendors will offer a variety of global flavors.

Attendees can also enjoy a separate ticketed concert to see Kool & the Gang with special guests B. Michelle and DJ Bee at the Portsmouth Pavilion. Tickets can be purchased at PavilionConcerts.com.

For the full schedule and more details on the event, visit www.UmojaFestPortsmouth.com.