The Nigerian American Festival will take over Guinness Open Gate Brewery in Halethorpe, Maryland, from 16 to 18 October 2026 for a three-day cultural celebration organised in partnership with The Nigerian Centre.
The event brings together thousands of attendees from across the Mid-Atlantic region to honour the heritage, influence and shared connections of the Nigerian diaspora, which will be headlined by Nigerian Nollywood icon Richard Mofe-Damijo
A Historic Connection Comes Full Circle
Guinness and Nigeria share a decades-long relationship. Nigeria is home to one of the world’s largest Guinness markets, and the Foreign Extra Stout brewed there has become a staple of Nigerian social culture. The festival brings that connection onto American soil.
It also carries a bittersweet weight. Guinness will permanently close the Open Gate Brewery on 1 November 2026. The festival will stand as one of the final major gatherings at the landmark venue before it pours its last pint.
The Custom Brew
To mark the partnership, master brewers at Guinness Baltimore worked directly with The Nigerian Center team to develop a limited-edition beer release inspired by West African flavour profiles. It will be available exclusively at the brewery during the festival weekend.
What to Expect
Saturday, 17 October, is designated the signature headliner day, featuring the peak of the entertainment lineup and major cultural showcases.
Local vendors will serve authentic Nigerian staples including jollof rice, suya and puff-puff, alongside pop-up retail stalls showcasing contemporary African fashion, art and traditional craftsmanship.
The brewery’s outdoor lawns will host live Afrobeats DJs, traditional dance troupes and musical acts bridging Lagos to the United States.
Diaspora Empowerment
The Nigerian Center is the first organisation of its kind dedicated to supporting the social and economic integration of Nigerian immigrants in the United States.
Organisers said the festival acts as a community activation, raising visibility, supporting immigrant-owned vendors and celebrating the creative influence of Nigerian Americans.
Tickets and a full lineup are available through the festival’s official channels.
