Celebrating Nigerian Culture, Heritage & Community

October 16–18, 2026
Guinness Open Gate Brewery
5001 Washington Blvd, Halethorpe, Maryland

Join the Nigerian Center and Guinness Open Gate Brewery for the inaugural Nigerian American Festival, a three-day cultural celebration bringing together Nigerian Americans, the African diaspora, and communities across the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.

Experience the richness and diversity of Nigerian culture through live music, cultural performances, authentic cuisine, interactive experiences, local vendors, family-friendly programming, and special Guinness activations celebrating the deep connection between Guinness and Nigeria.

Festival Overview

The Nigerian American Festival is a celebration of culture, heritage, entrepreneurship, and community. Hosted at Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Baltimore County, the festival will highlight the global influence of Nigerian culture while creating a space for connection, storytelling, and shared experiences.

Attendees can look forward to:

  • Live music and cultural performances

  • Authentic Nigerian cuisine and food experiences

  • Nigerian arts, fashion, and cultural showcases

  • Curated vendor marketplace featuring Nigerian-owned businesses and entrepreneurs

  • Family-friendly activities and interactive experiences

  • Special Guinness brewery activations

  • A limited-time Guinness release created exclusively for the festival

Festival Highlights

  • Friday, October 16: Opening festivities begin at 4:00 p.m.

  • Saturday, October 17: Signature festival headliner day featuring major programming and entertainment

  • Sunday, October 18: Festival programming continues through early evening

Location & Travel Information

Venue
Guinness Open Gate Brewery
5001 Washington Blvd
Halethorpe, Maryland

The festival will take place at Guinness Open Gate Brewery, a destination known for its brewing experiences, food offerings, and community events.

Getting There

From Washington, DC:
By Car:
From Washington, DC, take I-95 North toward Baltimore. Continue on I-95 North and take Exit 67B toward Catonsville/Route 175. Follow signs for Guinness Open Gate Brewery. The drive typically takes about 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Public Transportation:
Visitors traveling from Washington, DC can take the MARC Train from Washington Union Station to Baltimore Penn Station, then connect to local transportation options, including rideshare services, to reach the brewery.

Parking & Transportation:
Additional parking and transportation details will be announced closer to the event date.


Sponsors & Partners
The Nigerian American Festival is made possible through the support of community partners and sponsors committed to celebrating Nigerian culture and strengthening connections across the diaspora.


Founding Partner
Guinness Open Gate Brewery
Guinness has a longstanding relationship with Nigeria, where generations have made the brand part of celebrations, traditions, and cultural moments. Through this partnership, Guinness and the Nigerian Center are creating a festival experience that honors heritage, community, and shared culture.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Interested in partnering with the Nigerian American Festival?

Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking to connect with thousands of attendees while supporting a premier celebration of Nigerian culture.

Become a Sponsor

Vendor Opportunities

The festival will feature a curated marketplace highlighting Nigerian and diaspora entrepreneurs, artists, creators, and businesses.

Vendor applications will open soon.

Apply to become a vendor


Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Nigerian American Festival?

The festival will take place October 16–18, 2026.

Where will the festival be held?

The festival will take place at Guinness Open Gate Brewery:
5001 Washington Blvd, Halethorpe, Maryland.

Who can attend?

The Nigerian American Festival welcomes Nigerian Americans, members of the African diaspora, and anyone interested in experiencing Nigerian culture, food, music, and community.

Is the festival family-friendly?

Yes. The festival will include family-friendly programming and cultural experiences for attendees of all ages.

Do I need to register?

Yes. Registration details will be available through Eventbrite.

Will there be food and vendors?

Yes. Attendees can enjoy authentic Nigerian cuisine, cultural experiences, and a curated vendor marketplace.

How can I become a sponsor?

Organizations interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact the Nigerian Center for partnership information.

How can I apply as a vendor or performer?

Vendor and performer application details will be announced soon.

Will there be media access?

Yes. Media registration and press resources will be available closer to the festival.

Press & Media Resources

Media interested in covering the Nigerian American Festival can access:

  • Official press releases

  • Festival announcements

  • Logos and brand assets

  • Event photos

  • Media interview opportunities

  • Festival updates and announcements

Media Contact

The Nigerian Center
Olayinka Sarayi
olayinka@nigeriancenter.org

Guinness Open Gate Brewery
Collins + Company
OGB@collins-company.com

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