The Unity Block Party is back—and better than ever. Library Square in downtown Salt Lake City will host the annual community celebration on August 30, 2025. The event originated as a joyful response to national pain. The event is a joyful celebration that creates space for music, food, art, and unity.
Michelda Castro, CEO and Founder of Versatile Image and creator of the Unity Block Party, joined Avanza 88.3 Engagement Producer Carina Linares on Conexión. Michelda told us the event was born out of a need to feel joy and build community during the twin crises of COVID and racial injustice.
When Michelda asked to bring a George Floyd memorial event to Utah, the organizers responded, 'But are there any Black people [in Utah]?' She answered, 'There’s at least one, I’m here.'"
Michelda said she had had enough. “I was just so tired, so, so, so tired of crying,” she said. “I thought about block parties back home in Fort Lauderdale where people cooked, danced in the street, and played music. I wanted to bring some of that joy to Utah.”
This year’s Unity Block Party features a robust lineup of performers, food trucks, vendors, films, and interactive experiences. “It’s a place of healing,” Michelda said. “The more we gather together, the stronger we become.”
Follow @UnityBlockParty on Instagram and TikTok or visit unityblockparty.com for the full schedule.
Carina also spoke with Unity Block Party Executive Assistant Kiki Sully in Spanish on Conexión. Kiki nos dijo que el evento es "una fiesta hecha por la comunidad, es una afirmación de comunidad".
Conexión is a community affairs segment that highlights local nonprofits and cultural initiatives that connect and uplift Utah’s diverse communities.
Conexión es un segmento de asuntos comunitarios que destaca organizaciones locales e iniciativas culturales que unen y elevan a las diversas comunidades de Utah.
