The first ever Black on the Square will take place in Trafalgar Square next month to showcase the breadth of London’s Black cultural and creative talent with art and fashion appearing alongside musical performers.
The free festival will include vendors representing a range of Black-owned businesses, including delicious food from the Caribbean and Africa, as well as artisan goods ranging from customised accessories to handmade homeware and gifts.
From food and photography to music and spoken word, Black on the Square will showcase established acts alongside emerging talent. Visitors can also look forward to a photography installation by renowned photographer Jenny Baptiste and a music showcase from Newham’s Art Beyond the Shell, plus a host of stalls from Black-owned businesses.
The vibrancy of London’s Black-led nightlife scene will also be demonstrated through DJ sets and live music hosted by club nights and music collectives, with performances from Touching Bass, Queer Bruk and more.
The Black on the Square event will take place on Saturday 2nd September 2023 from 12 noon to 6pm, and will be free to attend. There’s no need to book tickets, it’s a turn-up event.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Black on the Square is a fantastic addition to our capital’s cultural calendar.
“London’s Black communities are a vital part of the rich fabric of our city, and I am proud that this brand new, free event will showcase and champion the sheer breadth of the capital’s Black creative talent.
“Our diversity is our greatest strength, and we will celebrate it at every opportunity as we continue to build a better, more equitable and prosperous city for all.”
Just to update you they are calling it black on the square but just 3 miles away is the same area. They took our African ansesters to sell as stock and Mr Nelson supported that .I will not support this event plus you want black creative. To pay to showcase their wares
Shame in you
It’s a great idea for our children and next generation of blacks to identify themselves and be proud of dear heritage
Most of the black youth don’t even have the knowledge of their past history
I wish I had prior notice to this. Would have loved to attended