Black to the Future

Black to the Future is the fourth and closing festival weekend of The Music is Black Festival, held at East Bank, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. A genre-bending celebration of London artists blending genres and reimagining sound, this closing chapter brings the series to a spectacular close. Curated by the acclaimed artist FLOHIO, the event is completely free — no ticket needed, just turn up and immerse yourself in the music.

Festival Hours

The festival runs across two days with the following timings:

• Saturday: 12pm – midnight
• Sunday: 12pm – 6pm

The Dance Floor is Black

Running across the full weekend at Sadler’s Wells East is The Dance Floor is Black — a companion programme that weaves movement and performance into the festival experience. This strand deepens the celebration, bringing together dance and music in a powerful exploration of Black artistic expression.

Part of the Music is Black Festival Series

Black to the Future is the closing chapter of the wider Music is Black Festival series — a landmark programme celebrating the breadth and depth of Black music culture. The full series includes:

• The Music is Ours — 13–14 June
• Power & Respect — 11–12 July
• Queer Frequencies — 22–23 August 2026

Each weekend has brought a distinct voice and vision; Black to the Future brings it all together in one final, unforgettable celebration.

Getting There

The event takes place at Sadler’s Wells East and The Waterfront Stage / Mid Terrace at Stratford Waterfront, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London. The venue is easily accessible by public transport — Stratford station (London Overground, Elizabeth line, DLR, and National Rail) is just a short walk away.