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Grab Your Passport: 6 Must-See Global Festivals You Have to Visit This Year

Posted byBy Kiersten Willis | Published on: CommentsComments (0)

While the year may already be halfway over, that still leaves six months of 2019. That’s plenty of time to get in some global travel and take in some of the best events that Black culture has to offer. Below is a sampling of some festivals around the globe that will have you booking your next international flight ASAP.

1. Black Star International Film Festival

(BSIFF)

The fourth annual Black Star International Film Festival is August 20-26 in Accra, Ghana. It is focused on the film industry and advocacy for it in the region. The objective is to create a space to allow filmmakers to learn and network as well as honor their work. For more information, visit the website.

2. Afrochella

Described as a celebration of African culture, this event takes place in Accra, Ghana on Dec. 28. Also offered are VIP packages, including access to major events and tours as well as merch and transportation, to name a few perks. See the website for details.

3. St. Kitts Music Festival

The annual St. Kitts Music Festival is officially a three-day event running from June 27-29 on the namesake island. Acts taking the stage include Davido, Popcaan and Ella Mai. However, it also includes a bonus event on June 30 called White Sands The ORIENT, which features a white swimsuit competition. Visit the official site for more information.

4. Zanzibar International Film Festival

Touted as East Africa’s largest film and arts festival, the Zanzibar International Film Festival is holding its 22nd in Stonetown, Zanzibar, July 6-14. It is an event on the Tanzanian island showing off the newest and greatest films that showcase talent from across the motherland. Click over to the website for further details.

5. Reggae Sumfest

Damian Marley performs during Reggae Sumfest on July 28, 2013 in Montego Bay, Jamaica. (Photo by Shelby Soblick/Getty Images)

This music festival based on Montego Bay, Jamaica, is happening July 14-20. The fest includes a Sunday brunch on day one as well as a street dance party that Saturday and two nights of music. Buju Banton is among the major acts taking the stage. For a full list of performers and tickets, visit the website.

6. Afropunk Johannesburg

Happening Dec. 30-31, spend the last days of 2019 celebrating Black culture with some of the biggest musical acts the culture has birthed in Johannesburg, South Africa. Performing at the historic museum of Constitution Hill are the likes of Solange and Miguel, as well as local acts like DBN GOGO. Tickets can be found here.

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