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Afropunk has been dubbed the “most multicultural festival in the US” by the New York Times. An eclectic mix of artists, fans, filmmakers and musicians, Afropunk aims to showcase the beauty of diversity and unity. Music acts for 2018 range from rock to hip-hop to soul and R&B–each bringing a strong message and powerful presence to the stage. Afropunk serves as a mighty representation of our diverse nation through the arts, particularly for communities of color.
If you plan to attend Afropunk Festival 2018 in Brooklyn this year, be prepared for a festival experience that reaches beyond your physical senses and heads straight for your soul.
Afropunk has its roots in Brooklyn, but its popularity over the past 11 years helped bring the festival to Paris, London and Johannesburg. Worldwide, Afropunk is more than a music festival; it’s a movement that continues to spread a positive message around the world.
Afropunk Festival Dates & Location
Afropunk Festival Brooklyn takes place in Commodore Barry Park in Brooklyn, NY. Dates for 2019 have yet to be announced.
Afropunk Lineup
2019’s lineup hasn’t been confirmed but for some inspiration, past artists have included: Gary Clark Jr., SZA, Macy Gray, Sampha, Thundercat, Willow Smith, King, Junior Astronomers, Soul II Soul, and more.
See the full Afropunk 2018 lineup.
Afropunk Tickets
Single-day General Admission Tickets range from $45-$55 depending on whether you purchase at early-bird pricing or regular.
Weekend General Admission Tickets start at $65 and go up to $90 on a sliding scale.
VIP Tickets are also available, and range from $110 for single-day passes to $250 for weekend passes. VIP Tickets include expedited admission, special viewing areas, and exclusive bars and lounge areas.
Getting to and from Afropunk Festival
Afropunk festival brings over 70,000 people to Commodore Park. There will be long lines and extensive wait times for all kinds of public transportation. So, plan your arrival ahead of time and leave early.
Subway — Take the B, Q, R lines to DeKalb Ave. or the F Train to York St.
Bus — Take the B69 to Flushing Ave/N Portland Ave or the B52 to Fulton St./Bond
Bike — Afropunk will have bike accommodations onsite.
Car — Not recommended. You’re in New York!
Where to Stay for Afropunk
Brooklyn is an art and music lover’s haven. From Williamsburg’s galleries to the street art in Bushwick, this trendy New York borough is the place to stay in NY.
Hotel RL by Red Lion is a beautifully designed hotel in Bushwick that employs wood accents and old pictures of NYC to appeal to your artistic sense. Rooms start at $141/night.
If you’re looking for a place within walking distance of the festival venue, Dazzler is a 4-star hotel that’s less than 3 miles from Commodore Park. Rooms start at $247/night.
For those on a budget, the NY Moore Hostel is a great alternative for only $115/night. Not sure about the hostel experience? Then you should read this!
With a solid public NYC transportation system, it’s realistic to stay anywhere in Brooklyn and still be able to get to the festival.
What to bring
- Small purse or clear backpack
- Sunscreen (yes, everyone should protect their skin)
- Hat to shield your face from the heat
- One sealed, recyclable container (e.g. water bottle, etc)
- Cash
- Leave behind the AV recording equipment, alcohol, umbrellas, large bags, and lawn chairs.
Afropunk Festival Pro Tips
1. Support the vendors — they come from the community and are typically small businesses
2. Plan your commute ahead of time and leave early — can’t stress that enough
3. Check out the acts ahead of time and plan your lineup schedule
4. Summers in New York can be unbearably hot and humid — check the weather and dress accordingly
5. Carry cash — it makes life so much easier
6. Ticket sales and park exits are final