Boulder, Co. September 4, 2025. Boulder is about to get a whole lot funkier. On Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, the heart of downtown Boulder will pulse with music, movement, and meaning as YJR Events proudly presents the 3rd Annual Melanin Funk Festival. Held on 13th Street beside the iconic Dushanbe Teahouse (1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302), this free, open-air celebration promises an unforgettable evening of cultural expression, community connection, and pure joy.
Now in its third year, the Melanin Funk Festival has evolved from a grassroots gathering into one of Boulder’s most anticipated cultural events. What began as a local initiative to celebrate diversity through music and art has blossomed into a citywide tradition that draws hundreds of attendees from all walks of life. It’s more than a concert, it’s a movement.
A Lineup That Moves the Soul
This year’s festival boasts a powerhouse lineup of performers who will transform the streets into a vibrant stage:
- DJ Berry kicks off the evening with high-energy beats and infectious rhythms that will set the tone for the night. Known for blending genres and igniting dance floors, DJ Berry’s set promises to be a sonic journey.
- Selasee and the FaFa Family bring their signature Afro-Reggae fusion to the stage, weaving global rhythms with soulful melodies. Their music is a celebration of heritage, hope, and harmony.
- The Reminders, an internationally acclaimed duo, will close the night with a captivating blend of hip-hop, soul, and spoken word. Their lyrical storytelling and dynamic presence leave audiences uplifted and inspired.
From the first beat to the final encore, the Melanin Funk Festival is designed to be an immersive experience one where music becomes a bridge between cultures, generations, and communities.
A Message from the Visionary
“This festival is more than a concert, it’s a love letter to Boulder,” says Yvette Rollins, founder of YJR Events and the creative force behind the Melanin Funk Festival. “It’s a space where music, culture, and community converge to spark joy and belonging. We’re thrilled to bring it back for its third year and invite everyone to share in this vibrant celebration.”
Rollins, a seasoned event producer with decades of experience, brings a thoughtful blend of professional insight and personal dedication to her work in Boulder. Her commitment to storytelling and cultural celebration is a driving force behind the festival’s spirit and continued success.
Powered by Community
The Melanin Funk Festival is made possible through the generous support of the City of Boulder, Visit Boulder, and Downtown Boulder. Their commitment to inclusive cultural programming ensures that the festival remains a platform for diverse voices, shared experiences, and artistic excellence.
This collaboration reflects Boulder’s growing dedication to equity and representation in the arts. By investing in events like the Melanin Funk Festival, the city affirms its belief that culture thrives when everyone has a seat at the table and a reason to dance.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Location: 13th Street, next to Dushanbe Teahouse, 1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302
- Admission: Free (RSVP encouraged)
- Register: Melanin Funk Festival 2025
Whether you’re a longtime Boulder resident or a first-time visitor, this is your invitation to join the city’s most soulful block party. Come as you are, bring your friends, and be ready to groove.
About Yvette Rollins & YJR Events
Yvette Rollins is the founder of YJR Events, a boutique event production company dedicated to crafting experiences that celebrate culture, foster connection, and uplift communities. Beyond the Melanin Funk Festival, Rollins co-leads Legacy Pilgrimages to Bryan Stevenson’s Equal Justice Initiative sites in Montgomery, Alabama transformative journeys that explore America’s civil rights history.
This November, Rollins will produce a major gala at the New-York Historical Society, further demonstrating her ability to bridge local impact with national influence. For her, events are more than productions, they’re platforms for storytelling, belonging, and cultural transformation.
Don’t Miss Out
The Melanin Funk Festival is free to attend, but space is limited. Reserve your spot now and be part of a celebration that’s as meaningful as it is magical. Whether you come for the music, the community, or the vibe, you’ll leave with memories that linger long after the last note fades.
For press inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact:
Yvette Rollins
YJR Events
917-742-1596
