The 17th Annual Congolese Heritage Festival was our biggest and best yet! Over 2,000 attendees gathered at Powderhorn Park on August 16 for a spectacular celebration of Congolese culture, food, music, and community.

Highlights included a electrifying performance by Minneapolis-based Congolese band Kin'Express, a fashion show featuring 30 local designers and models, over 25 food vendors serving dishes from every region of the DRC, and a children's cultural village with storytelling, drumming lessons, and face painting.

“Seeing 2,000 people — Congolese and non-Congolese alike — come together to celebrate our culture is incredibly moving,” said Festival Chair Mama Clarisse Ilunga. “This festival reminds us why we do this work.”

Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, vendors, performers, and everyone who attended. We are already planning an even bigger festival for 2026!

View photos in our Cultural Gallery.