The 47th annual BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! performing arts festival kicked off on June 4, and this year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular. While early summer highlights like Sheila E., Wayne Wonder, and Patti LaBelle have already graced the stage, the season is far from over, with plenty of must-see concerts scheduled through September.

BRIC Executive Director Siadah Blount recently shared her enthusiasm for the festival’s enduring impact on the city. “Brooklyn is a portal to the world, and BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! is where that energy lives every summer,” Blount noted. “Most of it is free, under the stars, at one of the longest-running performing arts festivals in the country. If you’re in New York this summer, this is the place to be.”

A Diverse Lineup of Brooklyn Talent

The festival continues to curate a diverse array of programming. Blount specifically highlighted upcoming performances by Royel Otis, Black House Radio, and the immersive experience of Sasha Velour’s Nightgowns. The festival is also set to honor the legacy of Brooklyn-born icon Aaliyah, alongside the 35th annual Lyricist Lounge, which will feature a highly anticipated performance by Jadakiss.

Music fans can also look forward to sets from the Cindy Blackman Santana Group and the Patricia Brennan Septet, as well as a Black House Radio showcase supported by Councilmember Chi Ossé. The season will reach its grand finale on September 19th with a special ticketed benefit show featuring Liz Phair and Sleater-Kinney. Proceeds from this final event will directly support BRIC’s ongoing free community programming.

For those looking to plan their summer concert schedule, the full festival lineup is available for review on the official BRIC website.