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Chattanooga Festival of Black Arts & Ideas

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February 26, 2026

Alkebulan: The Mother of Mankind

Experience "ALKEBULAN: The Mother of Mankind. Join us February 26th & 27th for an immersive ceremony of history, mythology & music.

Presented By:

August Wilson Playmakers Festival
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The importance of black celebration

The Chattanooga Festivals of Black Arts & Ideas (CFBA&I) are 7 ongoing festival series highlighting and celebrating extraordinary artists of African descent in the disciplines of music, dance, theatre, visual arts, film and literature.

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Black artist performing energetically with microphone in-hand.
Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

Juneteenth Festival

Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

Legacy Music Festival

Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

August Wilson Playmakers Festival

Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

Oscar Micheaux Black Film Festival

Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

Katherine Dunham Juba Dance Festival

Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

Elizabeth Catlett Visual Arts Exhibitions

Photo portrait of James Baldwin for the James Baldwin Festival of Words.

James Baldwin Festival of Words

Our Festivals

Festival events take place throughout the year and include music and dance performances, visual art exhibitions, delicious food, crafts, vendors, and thought-provoking discussion panels in varying locations throughout Chattanooga, Tennessee.

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Black dancer in traditional clothing.

A Year-Long Tribute to Black Artistry

Thanks to unwavering community support, what began as a single day event in commemoration of Juneteenth in 2018 has become dynamic, year-long programming.

Across the arts, we're dedicated to celebrating and contributing to the rich legacies and lineages of Black art and imagination.

Our MIssion & Goals
Black dancer twirling their dress elegantly.

Our Partners

Save on your stay

Coming from out of town? Save on your stay during our festivals when you book with our partner Hotel Holiday Inn.