Is this your first ARTS FIRST Festival? (Shout out, to Class of '26!) Check out our first-year blogger's picks for the four-day event April 27-30.
By Ogechi Obi '26
OFA Staff Blogger
As a first-year, I’m especially excited to see all the performances that ARTS FIRSTS festival will bring. From writing, dance, art, and song, it was hard to pick only three of my most anticipated events. But I have, and I hope to see you there!
Can’t Stop Hip Hop Conference
6:30-8pm, Friday, April 28| Harvard Graduate School of Education
In 50 years, one sound has captured the country and the world: hip hop. To honor it, Harvard’s Graduate School of Education is hosting a self-described “part conference, part block party.” I am eager to check out th intergenerational discourse on the state of hip-hop, lessons on classic hip-hop dance, and live performances that will include emcees, DJs, and a live cypher. So yeah, come for the history and stay for the party.
Service StorySlam
12pm Sunday, April 30 | Lowell Lecture Hall
What does it mean to serve? Hear from service-oriented undergraduates as they describe how giving back to their communities has helped shape who they are. Each student will highlight their service journey through original and found poetry. I look forward to finding out the personal meaning behind public service.
Performance Fair Opening Events
11:30am-1pm, Saturday, April 29 | Plaza Tent
This three-part event is the best of music and crowd interaction – beginning with a throw-back hosted by the Black Arts Collective. Come ready to dance. Next, the Harvard Pops, Orchestra will perform, followed quickly by the Harvard University Band. The whole event is expected to wrap up in just over an hour, but I’m sure it’ll be nothing short of packed. If you’re in for some carefree fun, be sure not to miss this!
For the full list of events happening during the festival, visit the ARTS FIRST Calendar Channel and view the ARTS FIRST Program and the interactive Performance Fair Grid.