The Black Nomads' Social Calendar

Introduction:

Black people are inherently nomadic. And in the vibrant world of black nomads, the party never stops. There's a whirlwind of celebrations where black nomads sync their calendars to the same rhythm of melanin-popping festivities. From the bombastic streets of Kingston to the high-fashion catwalks of Lagos to the historic alleys of Addis Ababa, millions from African North America, Jamaica, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Haiti and beyond unite in a glamorous procession of culture and revelry. Each year, the diaspora converge in a lively circuit of parties, carnivals, and conferences. This circuit isn't just about having a good time; it's a global cultural phenomenon where business deals are made and black businesses grow. So, if you're a budding black entrepreneur yearning to join in on the melanin-rich activities, here’s your exclusive guide to the most electrifying events across the globe. But be warned: your wallet might need to brace itself for this exhilarating cultural odyssey!

When it comes to the black diaspora the adventure always begins in the fall. Q4 is for the diaspora! So establish that PTO expectation early, non-negotiable, and ASAP. As black nomads pop open their WhatsApp group chats, grab their air tags, and flow into these diaspora destinations each year, they create a vibrant culture of celebration. This itinerary is your passport to the world's liveliest black diaspora destinations, promising unforgettable experiences and memories that will make your social media stories legendary. Remember to go where you are celebrated. Scroll DOWN to see the list

October: Lagos Fashion Week, Lagos, Nigeria

A hotbed of African fashion innovation, Lagos Fashion Week sashays its way through the Balmoral Hall at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island. This October extravaganza is a flamboyant affair spanning typically from October 25th to 29th, brimming with runway shows, networking events, and after-parties. It's where African fashion heavyweights like Mowalola Ogunlesi, Kenneth Ize, Duro Olowu, Orange Culture, Imane Ayissi, and Lisa Folawiyo parade their latest creations. This event is more than just a fashion show; it's a cultural fiesta with networking events that could set you back a pretty penny, but it's all worth it to rub fabric with the cre?me de la cre?me of African fashion.

For the men, remember what Steve Harvey said? Every black man needs a Black, Navy, Grey, Brown, Tan suit? Well it absolutely applies to trad and faaji hats (native foldable hats). Just like in Asia, in Lagos you must get a tailor-made trad suit. You must get 5 custom trads in Black, Navy, Grey, Brown, and Tan made for you while you are there and 2 white faaji hat, 2 cream faaji hats, 2 powder blue faaji hats. If you are a titled man or highly distinguished man of your black community then add to cart 1 Igbo and 1 Moroccan/Tunisian fezzes (red fez cap or red crown style kufi). Altogether the 5 trads, 7 faaji hats, and 2 red fezzes equals to 75+ trad suits combinations. For the ladies, custom skirt and blouse/pants outfits in these 5 traditional patterns/cloths will set you apart: Adire, Ankara, Bo?go?lanfini, Kente, Ndebele and 4 blouse styles: white blouse, black blouse, orange-gold blouse, and red blouse. Add a gele in green, pink, beige, and blue and you will be the envy of the runway. For both men and women, ask your tailor to throw in 2 custom swim outfits as well. Remember to arrive with space in your luggage. You will thank me later. You cannot mess up.

November: Ake Arts and Book Festival, Lagos, Nigeria

Imagine a place where you can mingle with fresh voices in African poetry, film, and academia in a literary oasis. Ake Festival isn't just a literary gathering; it's THE literary haven celebrating African intellect and creativity. Picture Nobel laureates rubbing elbows with up-and-coming writers in a festival that champions African literature. This gathering is a cerebral feast, blending the allure of African storytelling with the finesse of global literature. Nobel laureates Wole Soyinka and Abdulrazak Gurnah and renowned award-winning authors Nnedi Okorafor and Chris Abani are regular features here, making Ake a writer’s paradise. In this hotbed of intellectual exchanges while you hold a book copy ready to be signed, it's a perfect time to stand out with that new Lagos custom African outfit, to of course, embody the African narrative. Even if you are not a bookworm or cultural enthusiast, for the politically-minded dawn that red fezzes for this is the perfect arena to warm up your radical ideas with the African intelligentsia.

Ake Arts and Book Festival used to be in Abeokuta but has thankfully moved to Lagos’ capital city Ikeja. Typically taking place November 20-25 at the BON Hotel Ikeja Residence. For many black nomadic writers and thinkers this festival gives the week of Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving new meaning. This massive think tank masquerading as a festival is the cerebral turkey you want to get a slice of or be seen taking a slice of. Trust me, you will and can cash in on that socio-political capital later in the year.

December: Detty December Season, Accra, Ghana

Burna Boy famously declared ‘God Lives in Ghana’ and we believe Detty December has a lot to do with this new heavenly kingdom. Since 2016 (some say early 2000s), attending Detty December has become a sort of status symbol of the African cosmopolitan. For some black entrepreneurs looking to raise funding, attending is a heavenly mandate. Many Afrotech founders are longtime Detty Decemberists — and some like Olamide Olowehave have even used the festival as a “sandbox” to find product market fit. The Detty December period has become known for the deals struck in between rounds of clubbing & concerts, nature hikes & aqua safaris, and aphrodisiac palm-wine benders. Trademarked by the Ghanaian afrobeat artist Mr. Eazi, ‘Detty December’ is the passcode to vibes. Historically, Detty December started in Lagos, Nigeria but has taken hold of Accra, Ghana as well. The euphoric phenomenon that is Detty December has taken hold in both cities and is a month long celebration. The AfroFuture music festival, with its mix of art and music, adds a Afrofuturistic vibe that has greatly enhanced this festive season. Each year, hundreds of thousands black nomads return for “Detty December” celebrations and the black celebrities are literally following them. Each year the black celebrity and influencer list gets longer and longer with Michael Blackson, Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, Dave Chappelle, Chance the Rapper, Tiwa Savage, Joey-B, Juls, Sarkodie, Samini, Wande Coal, Stonebwoy, Asake, Ayra Starr, Juls, Meek Mill, Rema, Black Sherif, Cardi B, Kamaru Usman, etc. all in the mix at the same events.

In Accra, 'Detty December' is not just a phrase; it's a lifestyle with spiritual consequences. In the midst of the carnival-like atmosphere Accra's Detty December is where the African diaspora reconnects with its roots and are transformed. As an official part of The Return initiatives in-between Afrofuture day parties many travelers are bowing at the tomb of the father of Pan-Africanism or sighing deeply at the Door of No Return. When night falls you will have your phone up to Shazam the next Afrobeats or Amapiano song as you whine to the beat. The Caribbeans, the waist warriros, who are the kings and queens of “Karnaval,” are attending in large numbers as well so get your waist beads and waist practice on because you will be whinin’ till new years.

January: Detty Yacht Week, Mombasa, Kenya

As soon as you cross into the new year swap festival grounds for yacht decks. In Mombasa, January is all about luxury sailing and leisure. Think posh yachts sailing along the picturesque coastlines of Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles, and Madagascar. Detty Yacht Week is an epitome of opulence, attracting those who love the finer things in life. Aren’t you happy you rocking that tailor-made Lagos swimwear? Detty Yacht Week, an iconic floating festival caters particularly to black women. Kelsy Horton, Founder and Host of Yacht Week East Africa who has shed light on the secret sailing community in the east that has been quietly growing at the same time as Detty December in the west. It's an upscale affair, where the African diaspora connects with the motherland amidst the backdrop of serene beaches and rich culture.

January in Mombasa is not only about luxury yachting and white sand beaches, it's also about African football euphoria, courtesy of the Afcon Cup. After a week of the best lounge experience on Earth when returning on shore you will be greeted by the perfect cultural storm. The African cup of nations is an epic side quest if you are on the continent in the following years: 2024, 2026, 2028, 2030, 2032, 2034, 2036, 2038. Make sure to pack your African national football jersey or Mizzi jersey because you might find yourself in the middle of football history.

February: Karnaval Circuit, Trinidad & Tobago

Picture this: Trinidad & Tobago in February, a week before Lent, where you’re decked out in the most epic costume you’ve ever donned. It’s the Caribbean's ultimate party, less about clinging to New Year's resolutions and more about diving into Carnival festivities. Dub it 'Detty February'—a spectacle of dazzling displays and all-night dancing. This isn't just any carnival; it's a test of endurance where waistlines are challenged and spirits soar on the wings of soca beats. And that swimwear you snagged in Lagos? Essential attire, along with your other carnival gear.

But let's set the stage for a Karnaval Circuit, shall we? The grand spectacle of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is merely the climax of a month-long island-hopping extravaganza. It all kicks off with the Kayak Mas in Carriacou, Grenada. From February 8th, Carriacou sets the scene with its unique Shakespeare Mas’, a cultural masquerade born of local tradition, leading up to the euphoric Sunday before Ash Wednesday.

Then, jet off to Trinidad and Tobago for the ultimate week-long fest, starting on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The festivities ignite at Queens Park Savannah, spilling over into the vibrant streets of Woodbrook, transforming them into a pulsating paradise. The Trinidad & Tobago Carnival magnetizes celebrities and cultural aficionados alike, attracting luminaries from music moguls to fashion icons. And if you're wondering about the heavy hitters, the king of Soca, Machel Montano, and the queen of the stage, Destra Garcia, are festival staples, infusing the carnival with their star-powered performances. If Lagos during Detty December felt like a non-stop bash, Trinidad's carnival at Obi’s house will not disappoint. Expect a continuation of Lagos's luxe and lively vibes, perfectly synced to the rhythm of Soca.

The journey doesn't end there—wrap up with the after-party at Mashramani in Guyana on February 23rd, celebrating Guyanese Republic Day. Each destination along this circuit delivers its own unique slice of island revelry, crafting a bucket-list adventure for those drawn to cultural richness. The Karnaval Circuit isn’t just a festival; it’s a profound expression of freedom and joy from the black diaspora, a vibrant prelude to the solemnity of Lent and Ramadan.

March: Spiritual Retreat Season, Grenada

We know you've been grinding away on the corporate or VC ladder, dodging burnout and the less savory elements of office culture. Enter Grenada in March, or as we like to call it, the Bali of the Caribbean—minus the Instagram influencers and overpriced smoothie bowls. This gem of an island offers more than just sandy beaches and spices; it's a haven for soul-searchers looking to decompress and reconnect.

For the black nomads among us—those balancing a hectic social calendar with the relentless pursuit of career goals—March in Grenada presents a divine timeout. The island's spiritual retreat scene is as lush as its rainforests, offering everything from yoga retreats with ocean views to meditative walks along untouched shores. Picture starting your day with a sun salutation at the Spice Island Beach Resort, where the yoga is as revitalizing as the morning breeze off Grand Anse Beach. Or perhaps you'd prefer the holistic vibes at True Blue Bay Resort, where their 'Root to Rise Retreat' promises to uplift your spirits and perhaps even your stock options.

For those observing Lent, the parishes of the Diocese of St. George's provide serene settings for reflection surrounded by volcanic hills and tropical vistas. Meanwhile, Ramadan in Grenada brings its own serene experiences. At the Masjid al-Madina, the inclusive atmosphere is palpable. Here, you'll find a community where barriers are broken down, literally. The prayer hall offers a unified space—curtains optional, unity mandatory—allowing everyone to worship side by side, a rare find in the Caribbean's religious tapestry.

And speaking of community, let’s talk about the local charm that is Masjid Ahlus-Sunnah. Nestled in the heart of St. George's, this mosque isn't just a place to pray; it's a place to connect. After a spiritual session, you might find yourself chatting with Imam Sulayman, who's as likely to discuss Caribbean Muslim politics as he is to reminisce about his days in Toronto. And don’t miss out on meeting Umm Muhammad, a powerhouse in her own right, who’s ready to school anyone on the rights of women in Islam with the vigor only a Jamaican-born convert can muster.

So, whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat from the corporate hustle, a spiritual recharge, or just a meaningful conversation under the Grenadian sun, this island offers a rare blend of tranquility and cultural richness.

April: Jamaica Carnival, Kingston, Jamaica

After braving the whirlwind of the February Karnaval Circuit and surviving a March detox that would leave even the most seasoned party-goer reeling, you arrive in Kingston for Jamaica's Carnival, affectionately dubbed ‘bacchanal.’ While you might be a hardened Carnival warrior by now, Jamaica's vibe is a unique brew. Yes, Trinidad and Tobago may wear the crown as the emperor of carnivals, but Kingston's own bacchanal in early April (Between April 10-18) is no lightweight contender.

Held across the vibrant streets of Kingston, this annual Road March transforms the city into a pulsating cultural runway, featuring bands like Xodus, Bacchanal Yard Mas, and GenXs. This isn't just any parade; it's a black cultural institution, where the island’s heartbeat synchronizes to the rhythm of soca and dancehall beats. Expect an explosion of color, a symphony of sounds, and dance moves that might just challenge your post-detox flexibility.

For the uninitiated, those who skipped the February Karnval circuit, consider this your baptism into Caribbean revelry at its finest—where the music is as rich as the history and the dances as spirited as the people.

Celebrity sightings? Oh, they're part of the package. From Kai Cenant—whose roots trace back to Trinidad and Tobago—to Chance the Rapper, caught up in the ecstasy of Xodus, Kingston’s carnival is a magnet for the stars. Omarion, Jessie Woo, and fashion maven Carly Cushnie were also spotted soaking in the Caribbean sun and vibes, proving that when it comes to carnival, Jamaica pulls out all the stops.

And let’s not forget the local celebrities who turn Kingston into their playground. Aidonia, Valiant, Ding Dong, and Laalee were not just attendees but pillars of the 2023 Road March, which was hailed as a resounding success. The energy is infectious, and the music? Unstoppable.

So, if you thought your carnival days were numbered after Trinidad, think again. Jamaica’s bacchanal is a reminder that the carnival spirit knows no bounds, especially in a city where every beat and step tells the story of a people undeniably linked to their rhythm and roots.

May: The Design Show & Workspace Expo Egypt, Cairo, Egypt

Want to join Africa’s design elite or want to see what a billion-dollar budget does in the realm of nerdy architects, then Cairo in May is where you need to be. Nestled along the Nile, Cairo doesn't just flirt with history—it winks at modern opulence and dances with architectural grandeur. Annually around May 23-25, the Cairo Design Show & Workspace Expo transforms this bustling metropolis into a catwalk for structural creativity, making it the go-to gathering for those chasing the pulse of Africa's luxe design scene. Here, amid the shadows of pharaohs and the echoes of market calls, more than 20,000 aficionados converge to revel in a spectacle where the past meets the pixel.

Cairo, a city boasting more billionaires than any other on the continent—yes, even surpassing Cape Town's scenic vistas and Lagos's vibrant bustle—is a playground for the well-heeled and culturally astute. The Design Show isn't just an event; it's a three-day extravaganza that showcases how ancient Egyptian motifs can be stitched seamlessly into the fabric of contemporary design. Imagine an Instagram feed brought to life: every corner and corridor of the expo is a snapshot waiting to happen, capturing flowing lines and sensual forms that would make any architect's heart skip a beat. Just be prepared to turn your stroll through the expo with custom Lagos fit into your next viral Instagram post—Cairo's blend of the ancient and the avant-garde is nothing short of picture-perfect. They're not just there to see and be seen; they're there to inspire and be inspired, engaging in a symphony of ideas that could only be orchestrated in a city as storied as Cairo.

June: World Music Festival, Essaouira, Morocco

Step into Essaouira, where the World Music Festival turns this Moroccan city into an auditory wonderland each year, captivating over 500,000 visitors—a staggering number when you consider the local population hovers around 60,000. Imagine a festival where Gnawa rhythms, born from the souls of ancient African spirits, mingle with the edgy vibes of jazz, the soulful depths of blues, and the revolutionary sounds of reggae and hip-hop. This isn't just a music festival; it's a cultural pilgrimage for the sonically adventurous.

Essaouira's festival stages are as eclectic as the sounds they host. The artistic lineup is a masterclass in balance and diversity, bringing together legendary Gnaoua Maalems and icons of world music. Here, the promise is not just to listen but to experience—a bold, harmonious, and avant-garde program that beckons every attendee to immerse themselves fully.

What sets Essaouira's festival apart? Most concerts are gloriously free of charge. Yes, you heard that right—free! Stages sprawl across the city's historic public squares, from the vibrant Place Moulay Hassan to the charming Bab Doukkala, making high culture accessible to all who wander into its open arms.

As night falls, the city transforms under the canopy of stars. The festival promises nights where the fever pitch of global sounds washes over the city, carried by the infamous trade winds. It’s an experience where the historical meets the contemporary, where African blues serenade modern rhythms, offering a sonic feast that’s as rich as it is memorable.

For those drawn to the rhythm of Morocco and the pulse of world music, Essaouira’s World Music Festival is your call to adventure. It’s more than a musical event; it’s a celebration of the world’s rich musical heritage, seen through the multicultural lens of Morocco. From the deep, soul-stirring beats of the Gnawa to the contemporary twists of international artists, this festival isn’t just heard—it’s felt.

July: Reggae Sumfest, Montego Bay, Jamaica

Welcome back to Jamaica, where Montego Bay is not just a destination but a vibrant celebration of sound and soul at the Reggae Sumfest. This isn't just any festival; it's the high altar of reggae, where the legendary beats of Jamaica reverberate under the starlit Caribbean canopy, paying homage to the island's monumental impact on the global music scene.

Dubbed the "greatest reggae show on Earth," Reggae Sumfest transforms Montego Bay into a pulsating heart of music once a year. Imagine a festival so steeped in culture that it feels less like an event and more like a pilgrimage for rhythm aficionados. From the legendary Freddie McGregor to the electric energy of Jada Kingdom, the lineup reads like a who’s who of reggae and dancehall royalty.

This year, the stage will sizzle with the heat of new talents and seasoned legends alike. Picture this: YG Marley, the fresh-faced progeny of Lauryn Hill and Rohan Marley, taking the stage. Not just any stage, but the Sumfest stage—where his debut resonates with the promise of reggae royalty. With chart-toppers like ‘Praise Jah in the Moonlight’ making waves from Coachella to the UK, YG Marley isn’t just performing; he’s continuing a legacy.

But it's not all about the new blood. The festival will also groove to the tunes of Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds and Beresford Hammond, ensuring that the soulful side of music is well represented. And let’s not forget about the local heroes—Capleton, Anthony B, and more—who will deliver performances so powerful, they’ll resonate across the oceans.

Reggae Sumfest isn’t merely a musical event; it’s a showcase under the stars where every note played is a thread in the vibrant tapestry of Jamaica’s cultural fabric. Held from July 14 to 20 at Catherine Hall, the festival is a beacon for music lovers, drawing celebrities and fans alike to bask in the rhythmic glow of Montego Bay.

And as Red Stripe celebrates almost 30 years of sponsoring this iconic festival, the bond between good music and good vibes has never been stronger. Whether you’re a reggae enthusiast or a casual listener, Montego Bay's Reggae Sumfest is the place to be this summer—a spot where the spirit of Jamaica dances freely, inviting everyone to sway along.

August: Crop Over Festival to Kadooment Day, Bridgetown, Barbados

Ah, Bridgetown in August! Where the end of the sugar cane harvest isn't just celebrated—it's transformed into Barbados' most dazzling spectacle: Crop Over Festival, culminating in the flamboyant Kadooment Day. Imagine a six-week party marathon that crescendos into the grandest parade on the first Monday of August, where 'Kadooment' isn't just a fun word to say, it's a Barbadian promise of the largest party you've ever seen.

This festival is an explosion of color and culture, with a finale that’s a lavish display of Barbadian traditions, pulsating music, and hypnotic dance. Ready to dive in? Just grab a costume—whether it’s the dazzling number you saved from February’s Karnaval circuit or a fresh, feathered ensemble to make Rihanna nod in approval. Yes, by now, you might even throw around a Bajan phrase or two with an authentic West Indies lilt. And after months of carnival-hopping, from Soca to Dancehall, you're set to sway to Calypso in August with seasoned ease.

Crop Over isn't just a festival; it's a vibrant heritage showcase that draws a glittering array of celebrities eager to bask in the island vibes. From Rihanna, Barbados' own global superstar who never misses a chance to revel in her homeland's biggest bash, to Lewis Hamilton, who swaps the race track for the parade route, the celebrity magnetism of Crop Over is undeniable with sightings of Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Tyga. Most important, as the queen of Crop Over, Rihanna's return is a homecoming like no other. Her elaborate costumes and infectious energy light up the festival, turning every appearance into a headline-making moment. As you whine to the beat next to you may catch Lewis Hamilton. Not just a speed demon, Hamilton shows his slower, groovier side here, embracing his Bajan roots with the same fervor he shows on the F1 circuit. Or you might stumble upon Jourdan Dunn, British supermodel, bringing runway glamour to the streets of Bridgetown, proving that fashion's love affair with Crop Over is as vibrant as the festival itself.

As the festival streets swell with music fans, fashion icons, and cultural aficionados, Crop Over becomes more than a celebration—it’s where global stars and local traditions dance to the same beat. So, whether you’re a seasoned carnival-goer or a curious first-timer, Bridgetown in August is where cultural roots and contemporary flair collide spectacularly.

September: Conference Wave, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Welcome to Addis Ababa, the diplomatic pulse of Africa, where the air buzzes with high-stakes discussions and transformative ideas. Known as the political capital of Africa, Addis Ababa is not just home to the African Union and a significant UN presence; it's the epicenter of conference tourism. This city is where intellectuals meet influencers, and policy meets pop culture, making it a prime destination for events focused on African development and innovation.

The air is thick with potential. From heads of state to entertainment icons, this is where the continent’s brightest minds and biggest stars converge. The city plays host to a variety of prestigious gatherings, from high-profile AU summits to pivotal ECA meetings at the United Nations Conference Center. These aren't just ordinary conferences; they’re where the future of Africa—and sometimes the world—is debated, over exclusive dinners, cultural showcases, and, of course, a few after-parties. Celebrated Ethiopian artist Aida Muluneh might share her insights by day and headline a gallery opening by night, blurring the lines between cultural expression and political discourse. Meanwhile, philanthropists from major foundations weave through the crowds, their conversations potentially as impactful as the conferences themselves.

Navigating the city's top venues is an experience in itself. From the luxurious confines of the Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa with its state-of-the-art facilities to the expansive Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, capable of hosting thousands, each venue competes to impress. The Inter Luxury Hotel and Hilton Addis Ababa offer slices of tranquility amidst the bustle, perfect for side meetings or a quick respite. Meanwhile, the storied Sheraton Addis Ababa and the globally connected United Nations Conference Centre provide backdrops that are as grand as the discussions they host.

In Addis Ababa during the Conference Wave, every handshake has a story, and every badge is a gateway to new opportunities. Whether you're looking to strike a deal, share knowledge, or simply soak in the myriad cultures converging in this dynamic city, remember: your suit from Lagos isn't just for show—it's your armor and introduction in this high-stakes gathering. Here, at the crossroads of Africa's past and future, every conversation could be the start of something historic.

Final Thoughts

This social calendar for black nomads is more than just a list of events; it's a passport to the world's liveliest black diaspora destinations. From the high fashion of Lagos to the energetic beats of Jamaican reggae, each event is a testament to the dynamic spirit of the black diaspora. So pack your bags, mark your calendars, and get ready to join the global celebrations of culture, heritage, and unabashed black joy. Whether you're in the front row of a fashion show or dancing in the streets of Trinidad, these events are where memories are made, and legends come to life. Trust me, your social media stories will never be the same again.