This past weekend if you weren’t at the first annual BTI Fest (Break the Internet Fest), you missed out. On Saturday, September 17, the BTI festival broke Washington DC.

Partnered with Black Girls Vote, the Rock Creek Social Club, JZJ Group, Legacy Established, The Museum, and HBCU Buzz, this event was fun, but rooted in purpose. Beginning at 3pm in Washington DC at the Gateway Pavilion, attendees were afforded the opportunity to enjoy a pop-up marketplace complete with vendors, multiple full bars, and networking opportunities. screen-shot-2016-09-13-at-5-41-43-pm

The fest eventually turned into a full concert around 7:30. Major label artists performed, but prime performance spots were also reserved to upcoming talent. During the fest, an aspiring rapper from the audience even had the chance to spit a few bars on stage! Karen Civil was the host for the evening.

Headliners and featured artists include Meek Mill, Yo Gotti, OT Genasis, Kent Jones, Jacquees, Dreezy, DJ Quicksilva, Reesa Renee, Back Yard Band, Clyde Guevara, D.O.D. and Willtharapper.

screen-shot-2016-09-13-at-5-40-00-pmDrawing a crowd of more than 4,000 people, the BTI Fest provided an afternoon and night of purpose and enjoyment.

Co-founder Mia Fields-Hall says “(The) Break The Internet Fest was created to give college kids a chance to continue their education without financial stress and to encourage them to go above and beyond their dreams.” HBCU Buzz leader Brittany Ireland was proud to attend and to congratulate the scholarship winners awarded. What is better than partying with a purpose?

The BTI fest is the result of millennials trying to make a difference by creating a fun experience that also supports aspiring artists and current college students. As successful as it was in its first year, we are very excited to see what is in store for the second annual BTI Fest.