Gunna, Asake, Shenseea and more to perform at Afro+ Fest in Washington, D.C.

By    |  
Jun 4, 2025

Gunna, Asake, Shenseea and more to headline Afro+ Fest in Washington, D.C.

Afro Plus Fest is officially back for 2025, and it’s shaping up to be the biggest celebration of African and diaspora culture on the East Coast. Returning to the RFK Festival Grounds on August 31, the rapidly growing event is once again spotlighting the global impact of Afrobeats, amapiano, dancehall, and more.

For fans of infectious rhythms, high-energy performances, and vibrant cultural vibes, Afro Plus Fest is more than a music festival — it’s a cultural experience, and the 2025 edition is set to deliver in a major way.

Star-Powered First Wave Lineup Unveiled

This week, Afro Plus Fest announced the first wave of its 2025 lineup, and the excitement is already building across social media and music forums. The artists revealed so far include a mix of international headliners and genre-defining talent:

  • Gunna – The Atlanta rap star, who’s been merging trap with global influences, is riding high off the success of his “One of Wun” album and is bringing that momentum to D.C.
  • Asake – The Nigerian hitmaker behind chart-toppers like “Peace Be Unto You” and “Sungba” continues to light up global stages with his energetic blend of Afrobeats, Fuji, and amapiano.
  • Shenseea – A staple of modern dancehall, the Jamaican artist has been pushing genre boundaries while staying true to her island roots. Her performance promises to be one of the most dynamic sets of the day.
  • Uncle Waffles – A global ambassador of the amapiano wave, the South African DJ and cultural icon has taken her genre to new heights, performing everywhere from Paris to Coachella.

More performers will be revealed in the coming weeks, as Afro Plus Fest typically drops additional waves of talent. Fans can expect a genre-diverse bill with Afro-fusion, Afropop, R&B, and Caribbean music all represented.

When and Where: Key Festival Details

Afro Plus Fest 2025 will take place on Saturday, August 31, at the RFK Festival Grounds in Washington, D.C. This venue is perfect for high-energy festivals, with ample space for large crowds, vendor villages, and immersive activations.

Ticket details are as follows:

  • Early bird tickets go on sale Sunday, June 9, at 12 PM EST
  • General admission and VIP passes are available Tuesday, June 11, at 12 PM EST

All ticket sales are available through the official Afro Plus Fest website. Fans are encouraged to purchase early, as previous years have sold out fast.

Why Afro Plus Fest Matters

In the past few years, Afro Plus Fest has transformed from a niche celebration into a nationally recognized destination for Afrobeats and diaspora music lovers. Its rise mirrors the growth of Afrobeats itself — a genre once considered regional, now a worldwide movement.

Events like Afro Plus Fest matter because they provide platforms for emerging artists and help foster cultural unityamong Black, African, and Caribbean communities.

It’s also reflective of a broader shift in the global music scene. According to a recent IFPI Global Music Report), Afrobeats and amapiano are among the fastest-growing global genres, with consumption up nearly 30% year-over-year.

What Makes the Festival Unique

Afro Plus Fest isn’t just about music — it’s about celebrating the entire spectrum of African and diasporic culture. Attendees can expect:

  • Live performances across two stages, carefully curated to avoid major schedule conflicts
  • Interactive installations, including dance workshops, cultural exhibits, and community-driven art
  • A vendor marketplace showcasing Black-owned businesses, African fashion, handmade jewelry, and art
  • Food trucks and vendors serving up West African jollof, East African injera, Caribbean jerk chicken, and more
  • Dedicated areas for family-friendly activities earlier in the day, with evening sets bringing festival-level intensity

The Rise of Diaspora Festivals in the U.S.

Washington, D.C. isn’t the only city riding the Afrobeats wave — events like Afro Nation (Miami), Detty Rave (Atlanta), and Made in Africa Fest (New York) have helped push the genre forward across North America. However, Afro Plus Fest stands out by staying rooted in community and celebrating the local DMV diaspora.

The DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) is home to a rich West African and Caribbean population, making it a natural home for a cultural event of this magnitude. Afro Plus Fest takes this connection seriously, often working with local creatives, DJs, and vendors to make the festival authentic and accessible.

Travel & Tips: Making the Most of Your Experience

If you’re coming from out of town, Afro Plus Fest is the perfect excuse for a weekend getaway to D.C.. The city offers vibrant neighborhoods, historical sites, and a growing nightlife scene. Popular hotels near the RFK site include Hotel Zena and The LINE DC.

Here are a few tips to elevate your experience:

  • Dress for the weather – DC in late August is hot and humid. Stay cool but stylish in light fabrics.
  • Arrive early – Gates open by noon, and the earlier you get there, the more vendors, networking, and daytime sets you can enjoy.
  • Bring a flag – Represent your heritage and join in one of the festival’s favorite traditions.
  • Hydrate – It’ll be a high-energy, all-day affair. Afro Plus Fest encourages sustainable water stations and vendors.

The Bigger Picture: Music as Cultural Unity

Afro Plus Fest goes beyond just being a great time. It’s a bridge between generations, geographies, and genres. It introduces Afrobeats to new ears while honoring its deep roots in African culture and storytelling.

Whether you’re Ghanaian-American, Caribbean-born, Nigerian raised, or simply a lover of good music, Afro Plus Fest is a reminder of the power of rhythm, unity, and joy.

With a genre-defying lineup, immersive cultural experiences, and a loyal fan base, Afro Plus Fest 2025 is primed to be one of the standout festivals of the year. From Gunna to Asake, Shenseea to Uncle Waffles, the first wave alone guarantees global heat.

Don’t wait — grab your crew, cop those tickets, and get ready to dance, vibe, and celebrate culture at Afro Plus Fest 2025.