By Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher
San Diego Urban Warriors proudly announced the return of Kuumba Fest In The Park, a vibrant celebration of Black edutainment and culture, which took place on May 30th and May 31st, 2025, in the heart of San Diego’s emerging Black Arts and Cultural District. The event celebrated the community through creative expression, wellness, and cultural enrichment. Kuumba Fest 2025 marked the beginning of transforming Marie Wideman Park into a vibrant hub for entertainment and appreciation of Black heritage art & culture—a place to connect, learn, and thrive.
While this was the 33rd Annual Kuumba Fest, one would not have known by the scarce turn out at both sites, and so few members of the community that came out. Perhaps it was the weather, with a few slight showers. There was a row of vendors, ever present and always seeking to be available to the community. But those present had a great time from sack races to on stage live performances.
This year’s theme was: “Black 2 Action,” promoting “mind, body, and spirit healing through the arts.” The weekend kicked off with a Black Carpet Event and Film Screening on Friday, May 30, featuring “Generations,” a thought-provoking film by local youth mentor Travis Stocking.
On Saturday, May 31, the celebration continued with a full day of empowering programming, including: African MarketPlace for vendors and Black Art Walk
Experience, Youth Theatre Performance: “I Can Pass for Invisible”, Healthy Active Fit Obstacle Course Challenge, Dance, Step & Cheer Showcase, Taste of Soul Food Competition, Ujamaa Page Awards presentation for best-tasting food in San Diego, and a “Live in the Park” Finale Concert.
These experiences combined performance, wellness, and education to create an inclusive environment where community members of all ages and backgrounds could participate.
“The goal of Kuumba Fest has always been to give our community a safe, empowering space to celebrate who we are, explore our creativity, and build a healthier future together,” said Dajahn A. Blevins, CEO of San Diego Urban Warriors in a statement.
The organizers are to be applauded considering that Marie Whitman Park has still not been completed.
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