WASHINGTON, D.C. — Not even heat, humidity, or occasional downpours could dampen the spirit of this year’s National Cannabis Festival (NCF), held July 18–19 at the Fields at RFK Campus. The two-day event drew over 140,000 attendees and showcased the powerful blend of District pride, cannabis culture, and musical celebration, amplified by standout performances from homegrown D.C. artists.
D.C. Artists Shine on the National Stage
The festival served as more than just a celebration of legalization and advocacy. It also became a platform for local performers who’ve shaped — and been shaped by — the cultural landscape of D.C.
One of those performers, Nyame-Kye Kondo, known by her stage name Meche Korrect, made her festival debut on Friday. A multi-talented artist and educator, Kondo reflected on her journey to the NCF stage.
“I feel very privileged. I remember attending the early festivals and thinking, ‘I should be on that stage,’” Kondo said. “Now I am. I’m excited.”
Kondo’s appearance was a full-circle moment. A graduate of Duke Ellington School of the Arts, she merged music with storytelling, African dance, multimedia visuals, and even a hula hooper in a performance that she described as “a journey” for her audience.
From Camp to Center Stage
The road to the spotlight wasn’t easy. Kondo had been on a performance hiatus and only reconnected with the opportunity thanks to a seed she’d planted long ago. Despite juggling responsibilities — including running a summer camp on the same day as her show — Kondo said the moment felt like a long-awaited reward.
“Everything I’ve gone through kind of leads up to such a positive opportunity,” she shared.
A Soulful Set from Black Folks Don’t Swim?
Directly after Kondo’s performance, Kailasa Aqeel, another Duke Ellington alumna, took the stage as the lead vocalist and co-writer of the band Black Folks Don’t Swim?. Their electrifying, funk-infused set drew cheers from the crowd and added another layer of local excellence to the lineup.
Aqeel, who co-founded the band in 2018, called it an honor to share the bill with legends like Big Boi, Three 6 Mafia, Ty Dolla $ign, and Curren$y, as well as hometown favorites like Backyard Band and Black Alley.
“It’s important to be acknowledged after years of collaborating, rehearsing, and showing up for our craft,” said Aqeel.
Celebrating Community, Cannabis, and Culture
Beyond the music, the festival also emphasized advocacy, equity, and education. Kayce Bailey, lead singer of Black Alley, stressed the importance of NCF in giving D.C. artists a platform.
“The music scene in D.C. is ingrained in the city’s culture. You cannot come here and not put us on the stage,” said Bailey. “The people want to hear some go-go!”
Bailey also praised the event for promoting the health and wellness potential of cannabis and bringing joy to attendees.
“This is a great cause. It brings awareness and creates space for joy and healing.”
A Mission Rooted in Justice
For Caroline Phillips, founder and executive director of the National Cannabis Festival, the event has always been about more than just music and merchandise. From its inception, NCF was designed as a platform for cannabis advocacy, policy reform, and community empowerment.
“We’re excited to host another epic National Cannabis Festival celebration at this critical time for cannabis advocacy,” Phillips said in a statement before the event.
Her goal: to fight for a more equitable cannabis industry—especially given the decades of disproportionate arrests and sentencing experienced by Black and brown communities.
Cannabis as a Cultural Connector
Meche Korrect echoed that sentiment, noting the educational value and unifying nature of the festival.
“It shines light on the educational aspect of cannabis, which I think is important,” she said. “The festival brings good people together. Even in a divided time, music and cannabis have the power to unite.”
Looking Ahead
With record-breaking attendance, unforgettable performances, and passionate calls for reform, the 2025 National Cannabis Festival reinforced its status as one of the most powerful cannabis and cultural gatherings in the country.
From mainstage artists to grassroots activists, the message was clear: D.C. is leading the charge for progress — and doing it with soul, sound, and purpose.
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