Black On The Square festival returns
The Black On The Square – the capital’s annual event celebrating the diversity and richness of Black culture and creativity will return this September, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan has announced.
Award-winning actor and rapper Bashy will headline the event in Trafalgar Square on Saturday, 7th September, with a packed programme of activities for all ages. Music performers will include Cultur FM, Kofi Stone, Krar Collective, Shingai, Phoebs and Karen Nyame, while there will be a range of activities for children and young people including face painting and art workshops.
The free festival is an opportunity for Londoners and visitors to embrace the diversity of Black culture in the capital. This year’s event will celebrate and recognise the importance of collectivism within the community and inspire a sense of togetherness.
A range of Black-owned businesses will be offering delicious food from Ghana, Guyana, Jamaica, Mauritius and Nigeria, including plantain bites, fusion fish and chips, plant-based ice-creams and West African vegan delights. Stalls will offer a selection of artisan goods ranging from accessories, coats, bags, home décor, candles, art prints, jewellery, headwear and inclusive books for all ages.
Alongside entertainment, there will be businesses and organisations offering a range of services to support the capital’s diverse led business, including London & Partners’ grow London Local and Social Enterprise Foundervine who will provide support to entrepreneurs, with drop-in clinics for start-ups and the more established.
Black On The Square launched last year as part of the Mayor’s commitment to identifying, supporting and celebrating creative talent from London’s diverse Black communities. The celebration is now part of London’s annual calendar of cultural events hosted by the Mayor on Trafalgar Square, which also includes Diwali, Eid, St Patrick’s Day, Lunar New Year, Vaisakhi, St George’s Day, Chanukah, and Pride. This event is curated by an independent Creative Programmer from Fynn Studios and shaped with a Community Advisory Group to ensure engagement with Londoners.
