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Celebrate youth, justice & Black excellence across two full days of learning, performances, fashion, vendors & community healing.Excellence Fest 2026: Hip Hop and Social Justice
A Two-Day Celebration of Youth Power, Creativity & Community
Excellence Fest is back and bigger than ever for 2026!
This year, we’re expanding our programming into a two-day festival designed to uplift youth voices, ignite community collaboration, and celebrate Black excellence across the Twin Cities.
Whether you're passionate about youth justice, looking for opportunities to learn and connect, or ready to enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience, Excellence Fest 2026 has something for you.
✨ DAY ONE: April 18, 2026
Hip-Hop DJ Battle Brunch10:00am-12:00pm
We start the day with a high-energy Hip-Hop DJ Battle Brunch, setting the tone for a day full of culture, creativity, and community joy. Vote for your favorite Local artist to perform! Support the youth and your friends:)
Community Celebration12:00-4:00pm
Youth Fashion Shows
Showcasing bold creativity, leadership, and style from youth designers and models.
Free Expungement Clinic
In partnership with the Hennepin County Attorney‘s office, providing essential legal support and second chances for individuals seeking record expungement.
Black Wall Street Marketplace
Featuring local Black-owned businesses, creators, and entrepreneurs.
Entrepreneurship Support brought to you by The Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce
Resources, workshops, and connections to help young entrepreneurs grow and thrive.
Health & Wellness
For the Black Community Holistic offerings designed to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
...and so much more throughout the day!
✨ DAY TWO: April 20, 2026
Changing the Narrative: Youth Justice Symposium
Hosted at Hamline University Anderson Center
Day Two begins with a powerful convening dedicated to transforming the future of youth justice. Through panels, presentations, lived experiences, and community-driven dialogue, we will explore:
✨The current landscape of youth incarceration
✨Restorative & community-based alternatives
✨Youth-led perspectives and solutions
✨Policy, advocacy, and system transformation
This symposium brings together youth leaders, educators, organizers, policymakers, and justice advocates to chart meaningful pathways for change.
🎉 IMPORTANT: NEW FOR 2026
Excellence Fest is now a TWO-DAY event!
Last year was a single-day festival, but this year includes:
✨A full Day One of brunch, performances, workshops, vendors, fashion shows, and festival programming
✨A full Day Two is dedicated to the Youth Justice Symposium
One festival. Two days. Multiple experiences.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Anderson Center, 1537 Englewood Ave, St Paul, MN 55104, United States
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
