DETROIT, Mich. — A Flint staple is heading south in hopes of giving local artists a bigger platform and helping expand their reach.
Organizers of the Antidote Fest, an annual music and culture festival born in Flint, say the move will help Flint artists grow.
“The biggest part of what we do is support our local artists and allow them to get in front of huge audiences,” said Antidote Fest co-producer Jujuan Thorn. “We want this festival to be national. We want it to be global. We want it to be bigger. We want it to be an international fest and I think we are heading there. Anyone who graces the stage of Antidote Fest deserves a high-quality show. Our artists from Flint deserve the best.”
The Antidote Fest, presented by The Antidote Studio, will head to Detroit on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2025. The event is scheduled from 6 to 11:30 p.m. at the Detroit Shipping Company, 474 Peterboro St.
BabyFxce E performing on stage at The Antidote Fest 2024 in Flint, Mich. on July 27, 2024. (Micah Shamley | Flint Beat) 
Skilla Baby performing on stage at The Antidote Fest 2024 in Flint, Mich. on July 27, 2024. (Micah Shamley | Flint Beat) 
Flint-based rap artist Louie Ray takes to the stage during the Antidote Fest in downtown Flint, Michigan on July 27, 2024. (Teiko Cornelius | Flint Beat) 
This year’s lineup includes rap artists G Herbo and Dave East, Flint area artists BabyFxce E, Bfb Da Packman, Jeff Skigh, King Ca$hes, KrispyLife Kidd, YSR Gramz and Detroit’s Sada Baby.
The festival will also feature live performances from rising artists, DJ sets, food vendors and community engagement activities. Global food vendors and a full bar will also be available on site.
“You can expect a ton of fun… a whole new look. You can expect a crazy turnout. It’s going to be crazy this year,” said Thorn.
Organizers say the event is designed to uplift the community through music, art and youth empowerment. It also serves as a fundraiser to support youth music programming and afterschool initiatives led by The Antidote Studio and Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village. Proceeds will provide creative resources, studio access, mentorship and safe spaces for young artists.
“From day one, Antidote Fest has been about shining a light on underrepresented voices and creating opportunities for artists to be seen, heard and valued,” said Antidote Fest Founder, Maryum Rasool. “Moving into a bigger market this year allows us to amplify that mission while still carrying Flint’s spirit with us wherever we go.”
Tickets for Antidote Fest 2025 are available online at Eventbrite.