CURLFEST 2023: Celebrating Resilience, Connection, and Natural Beauty

Get ready for the ultimate summer vibe at CURLFEST 2023, set to take over Randall’s Island in New York on July 15. With this year’s theme “Bounce Back,” the festival is a testament to resilience and the commitment to creating safe spaces for community connection through art, music, and more. Founded by Charisse Higgins, Tracey Coleman, Gia Lowe, Simone Mair, and Melody Henderson, CURLFEST began as a series of small events in New York back in 2010. The founders established the “Curly Girl Collective” to celebrate Black culture, embrace natural hair, and honor the beauty of Black women.

Representation is at the heart of CURLFEST. The collective created a safe haven where women could share their hair stories, exchange product recommendations, and even experience the liberating act of the “big chop” together. By defying the white-washed beauty standard, CURLFEST empowered Black women to embrace their natural hair and reject harmful Eurocentric ideals. The festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of Black hair, whether it’s in afros, braids, Bantu knots, or curls. It is a powerful statement that challenges societal norms and embraces the natural beauty of Black hair.

The need for representation became increasingly apparent, driving the collective to create the first CURLFEST in 2014. The festival welcomed people from all walks of life who shared a common mission of celebrating the beauty found in diversity. CURLFEST recognized the challenges faced by the natural hair community in American society, from discrimination in schools and workplaces to the military and beyond. It became clear that a larger platform was necessary to shift the conversation and showcase that beauty comes in various shades, shapes, and textures.

To join in the CURLFEST experience, grab your ticket now! CURLFEST offers three ticket tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each tier comes with different perks, but all tickets grant access to the exciting features of the festival. Experience the CURLFEST Beauty Row, explore the CURLFEST Marketplace featuring incredible Black and women-owned vendors from across the country, and be inspired by the Empowerment stage with special guest appearances. Savor delicious food and drinks from vendors representing the diaspora. Dance the day away at the CURLFEST Main Stage dance party, immerse yourself in CURLFEST activities, and explore the vibrant CURLFEST Arts District.

CURLFEST 2023 promises to be an event of unity, empowerment, and celebration of natural beauty. Join the movement, embrace your authentic self, and let your natural crown shine at this extraordinary festival.