ARF - Building Bridges Across The River

Banner for ARF: Join us at the Anacostia River Festival, "Building Bridges Across The River," on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, from 1:00 to 6:00 pm at Anacostia Park.

Saturday, May 17, 2025 • 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

The 11th Street Bridge Park and the National Park Service present the 11th annual Anacostia River Festival.

We are proud to spotlight the rich diversity of Black culture by celebrating the African Diaspora. Set along the Anacostia River in the heart of Anacostia Park, festival-goers will experience the vibrant spirit and cultural depth of Black Washingtonians. Through live musical performances, a curated marketplace, and historical exhibitions, we aim to honor and uplift the many cultures that shape the Black experience in Washington, D.C. This year’s festival promises an unforgettable journey through the sounds, stories, and traditions that make our community so unique. We invite you to join us in celebrating this powerful cultural legacy.

All activities are FREE.

A black and tan dog playing with a ball in the grass at ARF.

A young boy riding a red tricycle in a grassy area while being watched by ARF.

At an event hosted by ARF - Building Bridges Across The River, people enjoy colorful hammocks on a grassy field. In the background, a large Connect Four game attracts playful competitors of all ages.

Four people smiling and posing outdoors, one wearing a green poncho and another a helmet. A tent is in the background, embodying the spirit of ARF - Building Bridges Across The River, as they connect through shared adventures.

A boy is playing cornhole in a park near the ARF building.

ARF's Building Bridges Across The River program helps the child enjoy a moment of relaxation as they lie in a hammock.

Two people dancing at the ARF River Festival, building bridges across the river.

At an outdoor event, a person dances energetically on the grass, holding a red cup. The scene, reminiscent of ARF - Building Bridges Across The River celebrations, unfolds as others watch in the background, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

A person in a black jacket and red pants smiles, holding up two fingers in a peace sign, standing on grass—an embodiment of ARF's mission to build bridges across the river. Others are seen in the background, capturing the spirit of connection and community.

A young girl relaxing in a hammock in ARF Park, a project of Building Bridges Across The River.

A group of people in a canoe participating in ARF's Building Bridges Across The River initiative.

Two young girls riding a tricycle in a grassy field, joining ARF for an event promoting Building Bridges Across The River.

At the lively ARF event, a group of people stands outdoors. A man pushes a stroller with a child, while a woman holds colorful balloons. Booths and others are visible in the background, embodying the spirit of Building Bridges Across The River.

A group of people stands on a stage holding bouquets and plaques, embodying the spirit of ARF - Building Bridges Across The River, with a microphone, speakers, and banners in the background celebrating their unity.

A group of children are fishing on a pier near a body of water while participating in ARF's Building Bridges Across The River program.

A young boy playing a flute in front of an older man at ARF.

A woman is holding up a string of beads at ARF, Building Bridges Across The River.

A little girl wearing sunglasses and a flower face paint attends the ARF event at Building Bridges Across The River.

A man in a black hoodie speaking into a microphone at ARF.

A woman in a white dress dancing at an ARF event.

Be sure to use #DCRiverFest when using social media!

Festival Activities

Anacostia Park

Discovering Adinkra

Fun with Building Bridges Farms

Think B4U Move Chess Challenge

Raptor Education

Arts Crafts & Games

Primary Montessori Lessons

Making Legacies in Education

Seed Paper Activity

Interactive Science Experiments

Archaeology in DC

Safe Driving Zone

Traditional Kente Weaving

Art by the River Side

Anacostia River

Reservations and water safety waivers must be completed before participating in water activities. Both can be obtained from the River Activities tent located on the festival grounds.

Fishing Workshops

Canoe Rides

Exploring Anacostia’s Water World

DC RIVERFEST STAGE

TOB Experience

The Experience Band

East Coast Limers

GarifunaRobics

Spoken Word to Go-Go “In the Pocket”

Silhouettes of people dancing with palm trees against a sunset, bridging the vibrant energy of the scene. Text: "East Coast Liners - Building Bridges Across The River.

Silhouette of a person executing a side kick while holding a yellow drum against the backdrop of ARF - Building Bridges Across The River. Text at the bottom reads "GarifunaRobics.

On Marion Barry Ave

presents

11th Street Bridge Park

SOUTHEAST MARKET

1:00 – 6:00 pm EST

S.I.P.S

Byrd’s Nest Box, LLC

Hype Lemondade

JackiCan Fresh Fruit Jams

PLUM GOOD LLC

Motherland fashion creations

The Evolving Sunflower

Dento Mills LLC

Big Moe’s Catering LLC

Plan your Visit

Getting There! What To Bring!

Volunteer At the River Festival

We are seeking event day volunteers to assist in shifts with setup, welcoming, ushering, and more! Thank you for helping us as we celebrate Sankofa On The River: Bridging Legacies at the 11th Anacostia River Festival!

Volunteer for the River Clean-up

You are invited to participate in the Anacostia River Festival Volunteer Clean Up with Ward 8 Water Watchers from 1-3 in Anacostia Park Meeting at the corner of Anacostia Dr/Marion Barry Ave. This event requires participants to be comfortable being outdoors, including potentially on unmarked paths or trails. Please wear closed-toed shoes and bring your own reusable water bottle, as well as long-sleeved clothing.