Black on State Fest is a bold cultural initiative redefining what power, presence, and creativity look like in the heart of our cities.
The name Black on State is intentional. In cities across the U.S., “State Street” often represents the city’s core—where decisions are made, businesses thrive, and influence flows. Black on State is our answer to spaces that have historically excluded us—a reclamation of space, culture, and opportunity.

Launched in Madison, Wisconsin, Black on State Fest centers community, creativity, and economic equity. We create space for Black and minority artists and entrepreneurs to be seen, supported, and celebrated—not on the margins, but at the city’s center. It’s about small businesses building big futures, and a city growing by investing in people.

Black on State Fest is a vision in motion—turning exclusion into belonging, and gathering people around shared joy, movement, and purpose.

Our signature event transforms downtown Madison into a vibrant cultural hub each year. With live music, local vendors, food, wellness spaces, and community programming, it’s a full-on celebration of creativity and unity. But the work doesn’t stop there—we activate throughout the year to keep energy flowing, connections growing, and our mission alive.