Looking for an affordable and enriching summer camp experience for your child? The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is once again offering Camp Africa, a unique cultural and educational summer program that helps kids explore history, creativity, leadership, and identity through hands-on learning experiences.

Designed for children ages 7 to 12, Camp Africa combines museum exploration, STEAM activities, storytelling, arts, field trips, and cultural education into a memorable summer experience. Best of all, the program is free for families, making it one of Metro Detroit’s most valuable summer opportunities. A $25 registration fee is required, but the fee is waived for Wright Museum members.

CAMP AFRICA 2026

This year’s theme, “We Who Believe in Freedom,” encourages campers to explore the meaning of freedom through history, community, culture, and personal expression. Throughout the program, participants learn about Africa and the African diaspora while engaging in activities that build confidence, critical thinking, leadership skills, and cultural understanding.

Campers can expect:

  • Interactive museum experiences
  • STEAM projects and creative workshops
  • Storytelling and cultural exploration
  • Arts and crafts
  • Collaborative games and challenges
  • Discussions focused on identity, resilience, and community
  • Field trips to locations such as Belle Isle, Tiger’s Games, and others

The camp is led by experienced educators, museum staff, and youth mentors who help create a welcoming environment where children can learn, explore, and make new friends.

CAMP AFRICA DETAILS

  • Location: Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
    Address: 315 E. Warren Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201
  • Ages: 7-12 years old
  • Camp Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm
  • Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch are provided daily.

Session Dates

Campers may attend one two-week session. Registration is currently open.

WHY FAMILIES LOVE CAMP AFRICA

Summer camps can be expensive, but Camp Africa provides families with a high-quality educational experience at little to no cost. The program gives children the opportunity to spend time inside one of Detroit’s most important cultural institutions while participating in activities that blend learning and fun.

Don’t just take it from us, check out this parent testimonial below:

I may be somewhat biased, but I would nevertheless like to say that I was extremely impressed with this week’s Camp Africa thanks to the first-person testimonial of my son, Alec.

At age 7, this is the first year Alec was eligible to attend. Coming from his regular summer camp in Southfield, which is very diverse but fairly privileged (being located in a well-equipped gym with daily basketball and swimming, among other play-based activities), I was concerned he wouldn’t readily adapt to a more learning-focused camp.

When I picked him up Monday afternoon from Camp Africa, however, Alec exclaimed that he made a bunch of new friends, and that, in his words, “we did science ALL day!” He was eager to return all week. And unfortunately, with the conclusion of today’s session, he was disappointed that he’d have to wait until next year to attend again.

Alec may sometimes struggle to speak clearly, but he always speaks his mind. He loved Camp Africa. And so did I.

DON’T MISS THE AFRICAN WORLD FESTIVAL

Families who enjoy Camp Africa should also mark their calendars for one of Detroit’s biggest cultural celebrations.

African World Festival 2026

Presented annually by the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the African World Festival is a three-day celebration of the African diaspora featuring live music, cultural performances, food, art, shopping, educational programming, and family activities.

Festival highlights include:

  • Live entertainment and performances
  • African Marketplace featuring Black-owned businesses and artisans
  • Children’s Village with hands-on activities and storytelling
  • African, Caribbean, and soul food vendors
  • Cultural discussions and community programming

The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year and offers families an opportunity to celebrate the richness, diversity, and legacy of African and African American culture together.