New England BIPOC Festival

An annual celebration of food, Culture & Community in Portsmouth, NH.

the new england BIPOC festival is a powerful annual celebration of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in new england. held in portsmouth, NH, this vibrant event uplifts joy, creativity, and resilience through food, music, art, and shared cultural experiences. hosted by Cultivate, the festival is a joyful act of resistance and a platform for building a more equitable and connected community. come hungry!

Sponsor

2026 Event info

sunday, september 27, 2026 | 12-5pm

strawbery banke museum – portsmouth, NH

what to expect:

BIPOC-led food vendors & artisan market
live music, dance, and spoken word
hands-on family activities and workshops
community tables and organizations
a welcoming, affirming space for all

FAQ highlights:

admission: free / suggested donation $15
parking: free street parking and nearby lots
accessibility: wheelchair accessible venue
pets: unfortunately, only service dogs are permitted on festival grounds

Mission

The New England BIPOC Festival exists to create space where BIPOC communities feel seen, valued, and celebrated. We aim to initiate and sustain conversations around equity, social justice, and cultural heritage, not through lectures, but through joyful, authentic expression.

History

inspired by the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, in response to the murder of George Floyd, the first festival was hosted at Vida Cantina in 2021. Since then, it has grown into a beloved community tradition, now held at the historic Strawbery Banke Museum.

Why it matters

people of color continue to face increased economic barriers to access in our society. increasing visibility and opportunities to connect is a Through food, music, art, and connection, the BIPOC Fest highlights the stories and traditions that too often go untold in New England. It’s more than a festival, it’s a movement for joy, justice, and visibility.