Liberian superstar Cralorboi CIC is set to return to Philadelphia for the 18th Annual ACANAFEST, where he will make a special appearance as Africatown Philadelphia’s Cultural Ambassador.
The festival is scheduled for Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Cherry Street Pier at Penn’s Landing, located at 121 N. Columbus Boulevard in Philadelphia. The event runs from 2 PM to 8 PM and is free and open to the public.
CIC, who served as the headliner of last year’s ACANAFEST, shared his excitement about returning to the annual celebration. He said he could not miss the opportunity to be part of this year’s edition after having the honor of headlining the previous festival.
The 2026 edition will bring together music, food, culture and entertainment as part of Philadelphia’s PECO Multicultural Series. The festival celebrates the diversity and cultural heritage of the Global African Diaspora, with live musical performances, local talent, globally inspired cuisine, artisan vendors and activities for families.
The ACANAFEST has grown into a major African cultural showcase in Philadelphia. According to Africatown Philadelphia, the festival was founded in 2007 as a neighborhood street celebration in Southwest Philadelphia and has since developed into one of the region’s prominent celebrations of African culture. The event has previously welcomed international African music stars including Davido, Flavour, Timaya, Yemi Alade, Wande Coal and others.
CIC’s connection to the festival became even stronger last year when he was announced as the 2025 headliner and ACANA’s Cultural Ambassador, placing the Liberian artist at the center of a major celebration of African culture in the United States.
For this year’s festival, CIC is encouraging Philadelphia residents, members of the African Diaspora, fans and families to come out and experience the celebration.
The event is free, and organizers say it will take place rain or shine. The festival is open to all ages.
With CIC returning in his role as Cultural Ambassador, the Liberian superstar’s appearance adds another connection between Liberia and Philadelphia’s growing African cultural community.
Event Details:
Event: 18th Annual ACANAFEST
Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026
Time: 2 PM–8 PM
Venue: Cherry Street Pier at Penn’s Landing
Address: 121 N. Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Admission: Free and open to the public.
