It is centered at the intersection of Grays Ferry Avenue and South Street in the U.S. city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Lois Fernandez and her friend Ruth Arthur organized the first Odunde Festival.

[1] The goal was to bring together the community and to foster awareness of and pride in black history and culture.

The festival brings in Africans from all parts of the world, including Africa, Brazil, and other places around the United States.

[5] According to WXPN, "... beginning with an all-inclusive spiritual procession to the Schuylkill River, the festival carries on from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., filling the day with vibrant traditional clothing, African food, and art and craft vendors from around the world.