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Celebrate African-American culture in Nashville on August 15, 2026 at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. The daylong festival will feature live music, visual art, dance, spoken word, culinary experiences, family activities, and more, highlighting Black artistic expression in all its forms. Black Arts Bash is the second of Cheekwood’s four annual multicultural festivals celebrating the diverse cultures that enrich Middle Tennessee. This year’s theme, “Next Gen,” celebrates the innovation, fresh perspectives, and cultural influence of a new generation of Black artists.
There’s no better location to hold such an event with this magnitude of fun and culture than at Cheekwood, with its beautiful botanical gardens and exquisite museum. Check out a few reasons why we are excited about this upcoming event, then grab your ticket today. Get outside with your family and friends this summer.
Listen to live music from local Nashville artists
Live musical performances will be curated by Lovenoise, an organization that has helped shape Nashville’s Black music scene for more than two decades. The musical lineup includes Nashville-born songwriter Esi, whose sound draws from modern alternative R&B, Afrobeats, jazz, gospel, and roots music. Singer-songwriter Ten Smith will bring a powerful blend of blues, gospel, soul, and funk to the stage.
Also performing is singer, songwriter, and producer Kenny Sharp, whose signature “Brown Liquor Music” fuses multiple genres into a distinctive sound that has made him a sought-after collaborator across hip-hop, pop, country, film, and television.
In addition to curating the musical lineup, Lovenoise will host a panel discussion exploring music and culture.
Celebrate Black Art Throughout the Day
Alongside music, literature, food, and performance, the 2026 Black Arts Bash Fine Art Exhibition features both emerging and established artists. Part exhibition and part mentorship opportunity, this year’s showcase emphasizes the “Next Gen” theme by uplifting the next generation of creatives. For the first time, rising eighth-and ninth-grade students will have the opportunity to display their work.
“Transparent Colors of Nashville” a documentary produced and directed by Cortney Wade will be playing on a continuous loop throughout the day. Through conversations with Black artists and creatives, past and present, the documentary explores the history, systemic challenges, and evolving landscape of Nashville’s Black arts community.
Sample local fare
Nashville is not just about music; our food game is also on point, and Black Arts Bash is setting out a full tasting experience. Some of your favorite Black-owned restaurants and food trucks will be available in Lot B from 9 a.m.– 8:30 p.m.
Enjoy Hands-On Activities And A Collaborative Art Project
Join Nashville multidisciplinary artist Nija Woods in creating a vibrant, multicolored sculpture exploring self-awareness, mental wellness, and human connection.
Artists Rooted in TN Sound & Stories (A.R.T.S.) is a Nashville-based nonprofit organization that will present an interactive open mic that invites guests to experience the power of spoken word, music, and authentic storytelling.
Black Arts Bash Fine Arts Exhibition
Celebrating visual art alongside music, literature, food, and performance, the 2026 Black Arts Bash Fine Art Exhibition features both emerging and established artists. Part exhibition and part mentorship opportunity, this year’s showcase emphasizes the “Next Gen” theme by uplifting the next generation of creatives. For the first time, rising eighth- and ninth-grade students will have the opportunity to display their work.
Stop by the Urbaanite Lounge (21+)
Visit the Urbaanite Nashville Lounge for a free cocktail tasting experience while DJ C Lo spins the hottest music. It’s a perfect place to hang out and socialize before catching the evening’s headline musical performance. Check out photos from previous lounges.
Hurry and reserve your ticket for the event HERE. Cheekwood is located at 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN 37205. Come join in the fun and celebrate local Nashville culture with family and friends.
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