A Day of Celebration: The First Annual Black Boy Joy Festival
On a hot day in the at the end of June, something beautiful unfolded: the first-ever Black Boy Joy Festival. What began as an idea—to bring together organizations that center and uplift Black men and boys—blossomed into a full-day celebration of joy, strength, connection, and legacy.
Co-hosted by Black Men Smile alongside an incredible collective of Black male-centered organizations brought together by Chris James of Black Boys Better , the festival was designed with one mission in mind: to celebrate Black joy in all its forms. And from the moment the gates opened, that joy was felt everywhere.
The park grounds buzzed with energy—smiles stretching wide across faces, laughter ringing out from pick-up games of kickball and flag football, and the sweet smell of chicken and waffles provided by filling the air. Families gathered under the sun, vendors showcased their goods, and children raced each other across the field like the day had no end. And right at the center of it all, our vintage car turned pop-up shop became a moment of nostalgia, style, and community connection—selling out before the day was done.
But beyond the games, the giveaways, and the great vibes, the Black Boy Joy Festival was about something deeper: belonging. It was a space where Black men and boys were seen, celebrated, and held. Where elders and little ones stood side by side, sharing in the richness of what it means to simply be—without explanation, expectation, or performance.
Throughout the day, voices were lifted in testimony—stories of why this festival mattered, what it felt like to be there, and how deeply needed this type of joy-filled gathering truly is.
The recap video from the festival captures just a glimpse of the magic. But even if you weren’t there in person, we hope you can feel the spirit through the screen. Because this wasn’t just an event. It was a declaration.
Black joy is revolutionary. Black boy joy is necessary. And this is just the beginning.
To every partner, every volunteer, every family, and every beautiful soul who came through—we thank you. You made this moment unforgettable.
Shout out to Undugu Brotherhood, Official Black Man Lab, Brothers Brunch Foundation!
Stay tapped in. Stay joyful.
Black Men Smile