Second Annual MA FEST to Celebrate Legacy of Ma Rainey in Columbus

The second annual MA FEST, a cultural celebration honoring Ma Rainey, is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 4 to 9 p.m. in the Historic Liberty Theatre & Cultural Arts Center District.

The outdoor festival will take place at 813 8th Ave., transforming the Liberty Theatre District into a vibrant, front-porch-themed community gathering rooted in music, culture and heritage.

Organizers said the event will feature live jazz and blues performances, barbecue vendors, local artisans, creative installations and storytelling experiences inspired by Southern traditions and historic Black business districts. The festival aims to blend entertainment with cultural preservation, highlighting the legacy of Ma Rainey, widely known as the “Mother of the Blues.”

Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere with live entertainment, historical tributes and a curated marketplace showcasing local entrepreneurs. Community-centered programming will also emphasize the cultural significance of the Liberty Theatre and its role in Columbus’ history.

Z. Lawrence, founder of MA FEST, described the event as both a celebration and a growing cultural movement.

“This is 2.0,” Lawrence said. “When people travel and talk about Columbus, they may mention Coca-Cola, but more importantly, they remember Ma Rainey, the Mother of the Blues. This festival is about honoring that legacy and making sure people understand the cultural impact right here in our city.”

Lawrence added that this year’s entertainment lineup will remain a surprise until shortly before the event, continuing a tradition from the inaugural festival.

“You have to be there to know who’s on that stage,” Lawrence said. “That’s part of what makes MA FEST special.”

Organizers said MA FEST is designed to celebrate heritage, creativity and community pride while helping to shape a new chapter for arts and culture in Columbus.

The event is free and open to the public.