Ever since June was officially designated Black Music Month by US Presidential proclamation in 2000—and has been observed annually even before then, since 1979—Americans have been gathering at various celebrations to honor Black musicians, singers, songwriters, composers and other music industry contributors—both past and present—for their indelible stamp on the American experience.

Indeed, Black music is woven into the fabric of American life. From gospel, soul and folk, to jazz, swing and the blues; from rap, hip-hop and funk, to rock-and-roll, country, and rhythm and blues—and everything in between—Black music plays a pivotal part in the soundtrack of so many American stories, from struggles to triumphs, that echo throughout our country and to every corner of the world.

As you set out on your summertime adventures this year, take a musical journey into the history and heritage of Black music with a regional event that pays homage to this moving American art form. Here, we share six top events to consider adding to your list of greatest travel hits.

The Roots Picnic. Photo by Miles Kennedy for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®

THE ROOTS PICNIC
June 1–2
The Mann in Fairmount Park
5201 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia

This annual extravaganza combines more than 30 musical performances across three stages with a community-wide picnic in a picturesque park setting. Saturday’s star-studded lineup includes Jill Scott and Nas, while Sunday brings Lil Wayne & The Roots, André 3000, Gunna and more major headliners to the stage. Attendees can also enjoy an on-site vendor village, with food and drinks from Philly’s best restaurants curated by none other than The Roots. Tickets are required. TheRootsPicnic.com

Boombox used by Public Enemy, circa 1986. Photo courtesy of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture/Gift of Public Enemy

LOVE, LIBERATION, AND JOY: THE MUSIC OF JANELLE MONÁE WITH THE US ARMY BAND
June 2
National Museum of African American History and Culture
1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC

Head to the Smithsonian’s Oprah Winfrey Theater for an Afrofuturism-focused concert presented by The US Army Band’s Perishing’s Own. Along with the band, Janelle Monáe will perform her stirring, soulful music through the thematic prism of love, liberation and joy. The event is free, but registration is required. 844-750-3012; NMAAHC.si.edu

AFRAM BALTIMORE
June 22–23
Druid Hill Park and various parks and cultural landmarks throughout Baltimore

Presented by Baltimore City Recreation & Parks, this free-admission family-centric event celebrates African American music and culture with musical performances, children’s activities, arts, history, education, health and wellness, and more. Headlining artists include Busta Rhymes, October London, Alex Isley, Mya, Big Daddy Kane, Karen Clark-Sheard and Morris Day. Rain or shine. AFRAMBaltimore.com

National Museum of African American Music exhibit. Photo courtesy of National Museum of African American Music exhibit

CELEBRATING THE SOUND MAKERS OF ALL TIME
Throughout June
National Museum of African American Music
510 Broadway, Nashville

This annual month-long celebration of Black music features a long list of live performances and special guests who are considered icons in the music industry. Check the website for specifics on this year’s lineup of events, which are currently in the works. 615-301-8724; NMAAM.org

30^th ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE
July 4–7
Caesars Superdome
1500 Sugar Bowl Drive, New Orleans
New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center 900 Convention Center Boulevard

What began as an ESSENCE magazine music festival in 1994 has evolved into a cultural spectacular that includes a food-and-wine festival, a film fest, a beauty convention, an authors’ alley, a series of empowerment seminars at the convention center, and so much more. The evening concert series at the Superdome features a reunion of New Orleans’ own Cash Money Records’ Millionaires, curated by Bryan “Birdman” Williams, as well as performances by Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, SWV, and Tank and the Bangas. Tickets are required. ESSENCE.com

BROCCOLI CITY 2024
July 27–28
Audi Field
100 Potomac Avenue SW, Washington, DC

The intersection of urban music, art and culture culminates in this annual fest with a special focus on sustainability and social impact. This year’s event welcomes dozens of artists to Audi Field in the Navy Yard. Among them are Megan Thee Stallion, Gunna, Party Next Door, Kaytranada, Victoria Monét and Key Glock. Interactive art installations, comedy acts, DJ sets and more round out the festivities. Tickets are required. BCFestival.com