The City of Newark Department of Recreation will join with entrepreneur Linda Jumah and community coordinator Malkia King to host the inaugural “Afro Beat Fest” on Saturday, July 15, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., in Military Park in downtown Newark. The festival, a celebration of African art, food, and music, is the revival of the Africa Newark Street Festival, which began in 1988 and drew thousands of attendees annually until it ended in 2006. The event is being organized by Newark Social, a nonprofit organization founded to increase cultural, social, and recreational activities in the city.

This new festival will feature international music superstars like the Grammy-nominated French duo Lex Nubians, English-born Nigerian singer/songwriter Ayo Jay, and a special appearance by Ghanaian singer Bisa Kdei. Participants can also enjoy activities hosted by the Zawadi African Dance & Drum School, Newark Print Shop, Yendor Arts, and more.

Festival sponsors include Newark Workforce Development Board; Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC); PSEG; Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, RWJ Barnabas Health; City National Bank; Men Of Africa; Adenah Bayoh Companies; and, Whole Foods Newark.

Ms. Jumah is the daughter of Africa Newark Street Festival Co-founder Maxwell Jumah and Ms. King is the daughter of another festival co-founder, Barbara King.

For more information, go to www.AfroBeatFest.Eventbrite.com or on social media @NEWARK_SOCIAL

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MEDIA NOTE: Parking will be available in nearby streets and lots, and in the parking garage under Military Park.