Old 4th Ward Unity Day Tradition Returns to Annapolis September 26

A longstanding community tradition is returning to Annapolis this fall as Old 4th Ward Unity Day 2026 brings a full day of music, food, history, youth activities, and entertainment to the Clay and Calvert streets area on Saturday, September 26.

Built “by the community, for the community,” the Old 4th Ward Unity Day tradition dates back to 2012. This year’s celebration, organized under the theme “Back 2 Basics, Roots of the Past, Pride of the Future,” is intended to honor the neighborhood’s roots while celebrating its present and inspiring its next generation.

The festival is scheduled to run from 12 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Clay Street and Calvert Street in Annapolis. Organizers are encouraging attendees to bring lawn chairs and come prepared for a full afternoon and evening of activities.

The day will begin at noon with an opening prayer and Gospel experience, followed by a special kickoff performance at 12:30 p.m. by the Annapolis High School Marching Band. The band will give a stationary performance on Calvert Street to officially set the celebration in motion.

A live stage and entertainment lineup will continue throughout the afternoon and evening. Scheduled appearances include The Rodney Kelley Experience at 2 p.m., C.A.R., presenting the history of the Old 4th Ward, at 3 p.m., Pressure Band at 3:25 p.m., Xclusive Dance Team at 4:05 p.m., an inspirational motivational speaker at 4:15 p.m., Prophecy Band at 4:25 p.m., Pock3t Band at 5:30 p.m., a local youth dance team at 6:20 p.m., Mr. Rick at 6:40 p.m., and Prosperity Band at 6:55 p.m.

The festival will also feature a free community fish fry and refreshments from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., along with local community vendors and resources. A Kids Zone featuring activities led by Change of Perspective will provide entertainment for younger attendees.

Music throughout the celebration will be provided by Dante “Djiceluv” Mackell Sr., with Leggo Henderson serving as host.

Another centerpiece of this year’s celebration will be the Deborah Ann Johnson Memorial Scholarship, with the scholarship winner scheduled to be presented at 6:30 p.m. during Unity Day. The scholarship is being promoted under the theme “Roots of the Past, Pride of the Future,” connecting the neighborhood’s history with opportunities for the next generation.

Community competition will also be part of the festivities with an Old 4th Ward Cornhole Championship. The last team standing will receive a $100 cash prize to split.

The 2026 celebration is centered on more than entertainment. Its message, “Honoring Our Roots. Celebrating Our Present. Inspiring Our Future,” reflects organizers’ emphasis on preserving the heritage of Annapolis’ Old 4th Ward while bringing residents, families, and generations together.

Organizers are encouraging the community to arrive early, support local youth, honor the neighborhood’s heritage, and spend the day celebrating together.

Old 4th Ward Unity Day 2026

Saturday, September 26, 2026

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Clay Street & Calvert Street, Annapolis