EightDown™ Festival Returns to Empower, Celebrate, and Uplift Black Communities in Indianapolis

Where Black Excellence Eats, Unites, and Elevates—Fueling Culture, Commerce, and Community in the Heart of Indy

INDIANAPOLIS, IN, UNITED STATES, July 24, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The 2025 EightDown™ Festival is more than an event—it’s a movement. On Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 1 PM to 7 PM at Flanner House (2424 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St.), the city will once again come alive with the sounds, sights, and spirit of Black excellence. But behind the music, dance, and food lies a greater purpose: to build sustainable infrastructure for Black communities through economic empowerment, cultural celebration, and collective support.

Admission and parking are 100% free, but the value of what EightDown™ offers is immeasurable. From small business exposure to youth engagement and mental health access, the festival is designed to uplift while uniting.


WHAT IS EightDown™?

Held during the **first weekend of August—the 8th month of the year—**the festival’s name is a play on the popular phrase “ate down,” used to praise someone who excelled or dominated. In this context, “EightDown™” also asks: Are you down for Black unity? The name reflects both excellence and commitment—two pillars of this cultural experience.

The festival was founded by Dominic Dorsey, the visionary behind Naptown DONT SLEEP Festivals, a series of community-centered events that include Melanin in May and Blacktoberfest. These festivals serve as platforms for Black entrepreneurs, creatives, and families—especially those without access to storefronts, online infrastructure, or major sponsorships.

“Our goal isn’t just to entertain,” says Dorsey. “It’s to build. We want to create ecosystems that support Black businesses, nurture youth, and foster joy—year-round.”

Learn More at www.naptowndontsleep.com


COMMUNITY at the CORE

At the heart of EightDown™ is its commitment to economic mobility and community care. Over 150 Black-owned vendors will be featured in the PMPHASE Vendor Marketplace, offering everything from fashion and beauty to wellness products, books, and home décor. This is not just a chance to shop—it’s an opportunity to invest in local Black businesses that keep dollars circulating within the community.

Beyond commerce, EightDown™ provides critical resources: voter registration, mental health support, health screenings, and a school supply giveaway are all built into the festival experience—ensuring every attendee has access to support that extends beyond the day.


2025 FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Entertainment takes center stage with this year’s “Culture in Motion” performances curated by Uzuri Asad. Dance crews like Power P Bounce & Co., Steppin’ with Shayla, G3 Steppers, Weight DRIP, and Common Ground Urban Line Dance will showcase the depth of Black movement and rhythm.

The DJ Skrill Memorial Heritage Cup Tournament, in partnership with Vinyl Destination DJ Battle League, will feature a heated competition among DJs like DJ Sounds by Cam, DJ Tone100, and DJ Hustle Handz, honoring the legacy of beloved community DJ, Skrill.

Two Hip-Hop Cyphers, hosted by Jinx Eshaa and Joosi GotBars, will bring emcees together to share unfiltered lyrical expression. Meanwhile, the “Art in the Orchard” exhibition, curated by Jamichael Kyng Pollard, will present live painting and visual storytelling by local artists.

Foodies will find plenty to love at the Food Truck Food Court, which includes past fan favorites like GALS FRESH FISH LLC, Good Vegan/Bad Vegan, Cheftlc, and The Grub House—alongside newcomers like Sincere Catering, Bank On IT Southern Bites, and Captain Curts BBQ. Dessert options will be served by Brown Sugar Cakery, Shelbies Treats, and Big Bear Shaved Ice, all soundtracked by the Naptown DJ Fest.

Youth engagement is also a priority, with the return of the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament in partnership with Y2G Indy, featuring divisions for youth and young adults ages 9–18+.


POWERED BY LEGACY

Hosting the festival is the historic Flanner House, a staple in the 46208 community since 1898. Known for its work in food justice, education, and equity, Flanner House is more than just a venue—it’s a partner in progress, and a perfect match for EightDown’s vision.


WHY SUPPORT EightDown™?

Supporting EightDown™ means more than enjoying a festival—it means investing in the advancement of Black lives and businesses. Sponsorships and donations help keep admission free, fund youth and wellness programming, and allow small businesses to thrive.

To learn more about how to support, donate, or get involved, visit www.eightdownfest.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
EightDown™ Festival - Dominic Dorsey
Email: info@eightdownfest.com
Website: www.eightdownfest.com

Jacquie Murrell
E.G.O. Entertainment Network
+1 331-465-4279
email us here

Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.