The 3rd Annual Tampa Bay Afrofuturism Festival (TBAFF) is lighting up the region with an electrifying fusion of music, art, and technology. Organized by the Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project (PDAP), this year’s event, running through November 17, embraces the theme “NEW EXPONENTIALS: Collective Power.” The festival celebrates African American culture through bold, innovative expressions that inspire and connect the community. A full schedule of events can be found here.

For those unfamiliar with the term, the National Museum of African American History and Culture defines Afrofuturism as a cultural aesthetic combining science-fiction, history, and fantasy to explore the African-American experience. It envisions liberated futures for Black life, connecting the Black diaspora to its African ancestry through art, creative works, and activism.

A major highlight of TBAFF is The Futurists, a stunning art exhibit featuring works by Dionne Seevers of Demetasphere, Raheem Fitzgerald, I.B.O.M.S, and Traer Price. Open through December 8 at The Studio@620 (620 1st Ave S), the exhibit delves into the core of Afrofuturism, merging African diaspora stories with cutting-edge, futuristic themes. Each piece reimagines the future through the lens of Black culture, weaving legacy and imagination into groundbreaking visual narratives.

Performances that bridge tradition and innovation

But the festival’s impact doesn’t stop at the gallery walls—music roars to life as the soul of the event. Performances by artists like Nico Sweet, DJ PharoahUnchained, Tha Banned, Kalib Music, The Black Ace, Dwn2Earth, Dia Blue & The Experience, Moe Musik, Anubia Storm, and DJ Solo transform intimate venues into vibrant spaces of connection and creativity.

“This is Afrofuturism,” says Johnny Champagne of Tha Banned. “We’re taking some of the classics and bringing them to the future.” The performances blend tradition and innovation, creating shared moments of joy and exploration.

“Our community needs this kind of joy”

TBAFF also highlights the intersection of technology and community empowerment through its Community Tech Days. On November 9, the Thomas Jet Jackson Recreation Center in St. Petersburg became an interactive tech hub, offering families and youth hands-on access to the latest innovations. These events aim to make technology approachable and inclusive, opening doors to transformative opportunities.

A new cornerstone celebration in St. Pete

Despite challenges from recent storms delaying promotion and fundraising, festival lead organizer J.A. Jones emphasized the importance of the event: “Our communities need this kind of joy—everyone can come out for free and experience a variety of exciting, mind-expanding events, from music and art to fashion, urban gardening, and our community tech days. There’s something for everyone.”

The Tampa Bay Afrofuturism Festival continues to establish itself as a cornerstone of cultural celebration in the region. Each installment showcases the transformative power of collective creativity, leaving audiences inspired by the limitless potential of Afrofuturism.

Follow the Pinellas Diaspora Arts Project for updates on future events.