Cincinnati prepares for 37th Midwest Black Family Reunion

The 37th Midwest Black Family Reunion will take place this weekend, from Aug. 14 to 17, 2025, at Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove in downtown Cincinnati. The four-day, family-oriented annual celebration highlights the historic strengths and values of the Black community. 

The Midwest Black Family Reunion has been held annually in Cincinnati since its founding in 1988, drawing thousands of participants from across the region. This year’s program continues the tradition of bringing together families, businesses and organizations for a weekend of cultural celebration and community engagement. 

This year’s theme, “Everlasting Endurance,” reflects resilience and continuity of community values, according to event organizers. 

The celebration begins on Thursday, August 14, with BFR Speaks, featuring keynote speaker Dr. Bernice A. King—daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—On Friday, the Heritage Breakfast will be held on Fountain Square, with Cynthia Booth, CEO of Emerge Manufacturing, as the keynote speaker. 

The main festivities take place on Saturday and Sunday at Sawyer Point. Saturday will feature a performance by Midnight Star, and Sunday’s entertainment will be headlined by Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Fred Hammond. The annual parade will also be held over the weekend. This year, it will take place downtown, beginning on Eggleston Drive and ending on Pete Rose Way at Sawyer Point. Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece will serve as Grand Marshal. Other activities include a job fair, a local college tour, a historic tour of Black Cincinnati, a two-day cycling event and more.  

All events are free to attend with food, vendor items and beverages available for purchase. 

For more information, including a full schedule of events, visit the festival’s official website.