MaFest Celebrates Music, Art, Heritage and Mothers

Embracing The Soul

As Mother’s Day weekend approaches, Columbus prepares to ignite with creativity, culture, and community at the inaugural “Ma” Fest, held May 10 – 11 in the Historic Liberty District. The festival pays tribute to Ma Rainey, our “Mother of the Blues,” celebrating her monumental impact on music while revitalizing a district with deep cultural roots.

“This isn’t just a festival; it’s the dawn of a new arts and cultural institution in Georgia,” says Arreasha “Z” Lawrence, a driving force behind the MaFest vision. The weekend promises diverse music genres, dynamic art, engaging discussions, and a strong sense of community, aiming to revitalize the Liberty District, which has echoed the rhythms of culture for centuries.

Once vibrant, the Liberty District has experienced decline in recent years, its bustling streets now quiet. MaFest seeks to transform this narrative by using the arts to foster growth and celebrate identity.

Ma Rainey, born in 1886, is a pivotal figure in music history. As a pioneering artist, she broke barriers and paved the way for countless musicians. Known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, her lyrics spoke to the struggles and triumphs of her community. MaFest honors her legacy by uniting artists who continue her influential work.

“Blues is the mother of all genres,” Lawrence explains. “Ma Rainey is a pioneer in the foundation of music genres. Whether you have country, soul, jazz—all these genres were influenced by the blues. We’re highlighting her namesake, embedding in the minds of people that this festival is here to stay, just like the blues.”

The lineup promises a rich variety of performances, workshops, and discussions focused on the arts and issues relevant to women in music. From blues and jazz to hip-hop and soul, the festival’s diverse sounds will fill the historic streets, inviting audiences to celebrate global talent.

“Expect to experience a good ‘black bottom time,’” Lawrence teases, referencing Ma Rainey’s era. “We’re aiming for a family-friendly version, of course, with good food, good liquor—Ma Rainey loved her whiskey and coke—and art installations. It’s going to be a lot of selfie moments.”

The Saturday stage lineup on May 10 features an exciting array of celebrity talent, including Jessica Betts, Gene Noble, Gene Moore, Leon Timbo, and Avery Sunshine. On May 11, Southern Soul Sunday, get ready to groove with Mike Clark Jr., LeBrado, and Lamar Brace. The MA stage is thrilled to host firsttime performances with artists like Dallas Dimmsdale and Kaddy Kobain. Rising stars Diamond Pynk, Lou Ridley, and Anne Cline are set to make their Columbus debut. Regional favorites Neal Lucas, Peggy Jenkins, Skylar Saufley, Lover Boy Lew, King IV “G Smoove”,

LadyCoko706, and Marco Richh are also part of the lineup. Additionally, Lloyd Buchanan and special appearances from Diane Durrett and Marcus “RatedArt” Bryant will add to the weekend’s excitement.

While the music captivates, attendees will also engage in forums addressing equity, inclusion, and professional development within the arts. These discussions aim to empower new artists, highlight community support, and encourage collaboration.

Festival-goers can expect food vendors celebrating culinary traditions, alongside art exhibits showcasing local talent. The marriage of music and visual arts at MaFest reflects its commitment to celebrating both history and the ongoing evolution of artistic expression.

MaFest is not merely about renowned artists; it’s also about nurturing local talent. “One of our primary goals is to provide a platform for local musicians and artists, which has often been overlooked,” notes Lawrence. “We want our local artists to shine and to connect with those at a national level.”

Talent and excitement are brewing for MaFest. “Z” emphasizes the festival’s reciprocal support, noting, “It’s significant when artists choose to perform on your stage.” This effort to unify artists with their community is the beginning of sustainable growth and recognition for upcoming talents.

Kicking off the festival will be the Radio and Music Legends Awards on Friday, May 9, a fitting tribute which intertwines the celebration of music with recognition of the legends who shaped it. “Senator Ed Harbison gifted me what he was calling the African American Radio Legend Awards, which we’ve combined with the Music Legend Awards,” Lawrence explains. “It’s an invite-only event, so get your requests in early.”

Additionally, a Mother’s MA Brunch will be held Saturday morning, featuring a special celebrity-hosted panel. “It’s another opportunity to celebrate mom,” Lawrence notes. “Those who might skip the festival can still enjoy a special brunch.”

As families gather to celebrate Mother’s Day, the festival offers a space for bonding, reflection, and appreciation of the arts, perfectly coinciding with the significance of the weekend. “We aim to create a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy themselves and gain a deeper

understanding of our community’s musical and cultural heritage,” Lawrence adds.

A Call to the Community and “Ma MOMents”

Attendees will have the opportunity to honor their mothers or mother-like influences through MA MOMent tributes.

MaFest champions the belief that music transcends barriers and unites people. “Our goal is to elevate cultural heritage and spark conversations that matter,” Lawrence says. “We encourage everyone to come out, engage with the artists, and celebrate the diverse sounds that make Columbus unique.”

As excitement builds and plans come together, the message of MaFest continues to spread: the celebration is not simply for the attendees but a movement that seeks to revitalize a community, foster connections, and secure a brighter future for the arts in Columbus. “I genuinely believe that MaFest will be a transformational experience for all involved,” Z expresses with enthusiasm.

The richness of the Liberty District is not just in its historical architecture or landscapes; it is in the stories shared within these streets, the music that has vibrated through the air, and the communal spirit that has always woven its fabric together. This festival is more than a celebration; it is a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope, and a tribute to the enduring power of art and community. As the sounds of music fill the air and the vibrant colors of art illuminate the streets, MaFest invites everyone to be a part of this transformative journey, honoring the past while embracing the future of the Liberty District.

So gather your friends and grab your tickets to get in on all the fun. MaFest offers a range of ticket options to suit every festivalgoer, with special considerations for families, students, corporate groups, first responders, and military personnel. Children five and under attend for free with a paying adult.

Join us this Mother’s Day weekend as we honor the ‘Mother of the Blues’ and the nurturing spirit of mothers everywhere, in a celebration that promises to be both transformative and unforgettable.

To explore the full spectrum of experiences and discover the perfect ticket for you, including vendor and sponsorship opportunities, head to www.mafest.net. For personalized assistance or to inquire about group rates, please reach out to them at 706-262-7800 or mafast@meccolumbus.com.