Afrobeats powerhouses Tems and Ayra Starr have been announced as headliners for the 2026 edition of Afro Plus Fest, set to take place over Labor Day weekend in Landover, Maryland.
The addition of these two Nigerian superstars elevates an already impressive lineup, positioning the festival as one of the premier celebrations of African music and culture in the United States.
The three-day event, running from September 4 to 6 at the Northwest Stadium Complex, promises an immersive experience blending Afrobeats, hip-hop, Amapiano, and other global sounds across multiple stages. Organizers unveiled the news on July 13, generating immediate buzz across social media and music platforms.
Promotional posters featuring Tems and Ayra Starr in shimmering outfits quickly circulated, highlighting their status as co-headliners alongside previously announced acts like Wizkid, Davido, and Alkaline.
Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, has emerged as one of Africa’s most influential voices. Her soulful, genre-defying sound gained international acclaim with the 2020 breakout hit “Essence,” a collaboration with Wizkid that became a global summer anthem during the pandemic.
The track earned Grammy nominations and solidified Tems’ reputation for introspective lyrics paired with infectious grooves. Her 2024 album Born in the Wild further showcased her evolution as an artist, earning critical praise for its emotional depth and innovative production. Tems has performed at major festivals worldwide and collaborated with artists like Beyoncé, Drake, and Future, bridging African sounds with mainstream Western audiences.
Ayra Starr, whose real name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, represents the vibrant, youthful energy of the new generation of Afrobeats stars. Signed to Mavin Records, she burst onto the scene with her 2021 debut EP 19 & Dangerous. Hits like “Rush,” “Bloody Samaritan,” and “Commas” have amassed billions of streams, showcasing her smooth vocals, confident delivery, and empowering messages.
Starr’s music often explores themes of self-love, ambition, and resilience, resonating deeply with young fans across the African diaspora. Her sophomore album The Year I Turned 21 demonstrated artistic growth, incorporating elements of R&B and pop while staying rooted in her Nigerian heritage.
At just 23 years old, she has already toured extensively and built a dedicated global following.
The pairing of Tems and Ayra Starr as headliners creates a powerful narrative of female excellence in Afrobeats. Both artists have shattered glass ceilings in a male-dominated industry, achieving chart success, critical acclaim, and cultural impact on their own terms.
Their presence at Afro Plus Fest underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing top-tier African talent, particularly women who continue to drive the genre’s global expansion.
Afro Plus Fest debuted in 2025 and quickly established itself as a must-attend event for music lovers in the DMV (District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia) area. Last year’s edition drew approximately 20,000 attendees, selling out and creating demand for a larger venue and expanded programming.
Organizers expect up to 120,000 fans this year, drawn by the all-star roster and the festival’s family-friendly, all-ages atmosphere.
In addition to the headliners, the lineup features a mix of international and domestic acts. Davido is slated for Friday, Alkaline for Saturday, and Wizkid for Sunday performances. Other confirmed artists include Lil Baby, Latto, Tiwa Savage, and more, promising a diverse sonic experience.
The festival grounds at Northwest Stadium will host multiple stages, food vendors offering West African and Caribbean cuisine, cultural exhibits, fashion showcases, and interactive experiences celebrating the African diaspora.
Public Reaction
Music industry experts view the 2026 edition as a significant milestone for Afrobeats in North America. The genre has experienced explosive growth in recent years, with Nigerian artists dominating Billboard charts, Spotify playlists, and major awards shows.
Festivals like Afro Plus Fest play a crucial role in introducing these sounds to broader American audiences while providing a homecoming vibe for diaspora communities.
“This is more than just a music festival,” said one organizer in recent statements. “It’s a cultural celebration that brings people together through rhythm, heritage, and shared joy.” Tickets are currently on sale via theafroplus.com, with a price increase scheduled for Friday at 11:59 PM ET. Packages include multi-day passes, as single-day tickets are not available, encouraging fans to immerse themselves in the full weekend experience.
For Tems and Ayra Starr, the Maryland performance represents another chapter in their rising careers. Both artists maintain strong connections to their Nigerian roots while embracing global stages. Their sets are expected to blend fan favorites with new material, delivering high-energy performances that highlight the emotional range and danceable appeal of contemporary Afrobeats.
The announcement has sparked excitement among fans, with social media filled with anticipation and travel plans. Many view the festival as a rare opportunity to see multiple Afrobeats giants in one location, especially in the United States where such concentrated lineups remain uncommon.
As preparations continue, Afro Plus Fest 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the American festival calendar. It not only celebrates musical excellence but also fosters cultural pride and unity within the growing African music community.
With Tems and Ayra Starr leading the charge, the weekend promises unforgettable moments, vibrant energy, and lasting memories for attendees.
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