About this Event
About Natural Hair Fest®
Natural Hair Fest® is a traveling event series dedicated to empowering the natural hair community locally. Through education, resources, and community engagement, the festival celebrates the artistry and culture of natural hair while connecting potential clients, small businesses and beauty entrepreneurs.
Chicago, IL – Natural Hair Fest®, one of the natural hair and beauty industry’s premier events celebrating the beauty, diversity, and empowerment of natural hair, is set to kick-off in Chicago for another season of programming across the United States. Taking place Sunday the 28th of June 2026 at the Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center Chicago located 520 South Michigan Avenue in The Alcove Ballroom; Chicago, Illinois 60605 between the hours of 10am and 11:00pm. This year’s launch of the 2026 National 24+ City Tour de Naturelle' promises to be an unforgettable experience for natural hair enthusiasts, beauty professionals, and the local community.
What to Expect
Natural Hair Fest® Kick-Off Celebration for the National 24+City Tour de Naturelle will feature a vibrant array of activities and resources for attendees, including:
- Educational Panels & Workshops: Gain invaluable insights from industry-leading experts on barbering, locs, braiding, and natural hair styling. Topics will include hair loss prevention, healthy hair maintenance, and creative styling techniques.
- Vendor Marketplace: Explore a diverse selection of vendors offering top-tier natural hair care products, accessories, and tools. Connect with local businesses and discover innovative brands.
- Networking Opportunities: Meet and engage with beauty industry professionals, influencers, and enthusiasts in a collaborative and inspiring environment.
- Live Demonstrations: Witness live demonstrations showcasing the latest trends and techniques in natural hair care.
- AFROINTL Fashion Show: Experience the allure and artistry of fashion designs that perfectly complement the natural hair lifestyle.
- Spoken Word Open Mic: Be inspired by spoken word poets as they share heartfelt expressions, addressing community concerns and emotions through rhythmic and evocative performances.
- Live Entertainment Showcase: Celebrate Chicago’s rich artistic heritage with performances by some of the city’s most talented entertainers, all on the Natural Hair Fest stage.
ReConnect to the Movement
Natural Hair Fest® continues to be an influential platform advocating for self-expression, cultural pride, and the beauty of natural hair. This year’s Chicago Kick-Off Celebration is no exception, featuring an expanded lineup of speakers, interactive sessions, and a focus on community building.
“How amazing it feels that Natural Hair Fest superceeds the bottom-line,” says MarkDavid Carter, Impresario & Multidisciplinary Artist for Natural Hair Fest®. “We’re thrilled to bring this celebration back to Chicago, where creativity and culture thrive naturally.”
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Courtyard by Marriott Chicago Downtown/River North, 30 East Hubbard Street, Chicago, United States
USD 31.94 to USD 300.84











