Black on State

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Sharon Vanorny/Destination Madison

Attendees at the 2024 Black on State festival.

Attendees at the 2024 Black on State festival.

The Black on State block party is back with a day of arts, culture and community on the 400 block of State Street. This year’s theme is “Rodeo Remix: Black, Bold & Buckin',” with a line dancing class by Keena Atkinson, and music by Chakari Daezhare, DJ 4000 and DJ Dee Franko. Along with vendor booths, there will be kids' activities from Madison Reading Project and Madison Children's Museum in Peace Park. For more info and updates, see blackonstate.com.

media release: RODEO REMIX: BLACK, BOLD & BUCKIN’

The Black on State Festival returns for its second year on Saturday, August 23, from 12 to 5 PM on the 400 block of State Street. Bigger, bolder, and more joyful than ever, this year’s celebration is saddling up with a fun new rodeo theme—bringing the spirit of Black creativity, culture, and community to the heart of downtown Madison. Black on State was created to reimagine economic corridors—like State Street—as spaces where Black and underserved voices, art, and entrepreneurs are not only visible but celebrated. Founded by Ashley Moseberry, the festival made a powerful debut in 2024, drawing nearly 13,000 attendees and quickly becoming one of Madison’s most impactful community events. This year, the festival is back with even more energy, intention, and inspiration— anticipating 15,000 to 18,000 guests.

A standout addition this year is the Rodeo Remix VIP Experience, presented by MG&E with beverages provided by Pepsi. For just $20, attendees can enjoy exclusive access to a VIP area designed for comfort, connection, and curated experiences—all with a prime view of the festival’s vibrant performances. Tickets for the VIP experience are available now at blackonstate.com/bosfestival.

Festivalgoers can expect a lively mix of local vendors, food trucks, creative activations, and more. DJ 4000 and DJ Dee Franko will keep the energy high throughout the afternoon, while host Kayla Lewis Allen brings her signature spirit from Milwaukee to Madison—proving that when our cities unite, the vibe is unmatched. The stage will feature a performance by Chakari Daezhare, a live line dancing class led by Keena Atkinson of R’oujie Wellness, and giveaways made possible by Overture Center for the Arts.

Families will enjoy a dedicated Kids Corner in Peace Park from 12 PM to 4 PM, presented by Madison Reading Project. The space will feature the Big Red Reading Bus, free activities from the Madison Children’s Museum, face painting, and a chance to win a family 4-pack of tickets to Cirque Mechanics Tilt at Overture Center for the Arts this November.

Black on State is also opening the door for local artists and performers to get involved. With support from Dane Arts, two free art vendor booths have already been awarded, and two more are currently open for applications. Artists of all mediums are encouraged to apply by contacting info@blackonstate.com. The festival is also booking main stage talent and welcomes submissions from poets, musicians, and other performers.

This year’s event is made possible through generous support from local sponsors including Madison Gas and Electric, TruStage, and Madison Reading Project, as well as community partners like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County, Findorff, Overture Center for the Arts, Pepsi, Dane Arts, Madison Children’s Museum, Destination Madison, Arts + Literature Laboratory, and Madison’s Central Business Improvement District.

As Black on State rides into its second year, it does so with a renewed commitment to celebration, equity, and visibility. More than a street takeover, this is a cultural experience—rooted in joy, belonging, and the creative power of community.

Dust off your boots, bring your friends and family, and meet us on State Street for a day of music, movement, and magic. Let’s ride.