The Sai Summer Cookout will return Aug. 29-31, 2025, at Texas Southern University, bringing three days of music, food, and community programming.
The event was created by actress and producer Marsai Martin and will be hosted by Scott Evans, Serena Page, and Zoie Fenty.
“I’m so excited to bring Sai Summer Cookout to Texas Southern,” Martin said. “I spent so many summers here with my family, so coming back feels like home. I’ve always loved gathering people—there’s nothing like the energy when we come together to celebrate, support one another, and just enjoy life. This weekend is about my generation connecting with those before us, building new memories, and loving on each other.”
The weekend will include game night with Urban Trivia, Sai Soul Sessions with Walk Good LA, and a celebration with The Black Excellence Brunch. Food critic Keith Lee will lead a food court experience featuring local chefs and restaurants.
Performances are scheduled from Paul Wall, Ari Camille, MonaLeo, and Kwn, along with DJ sets from Richy Smart, DJ Slater Rose, and Mr. Rogers.
Martin launched Sai Summer Cookout in 2023. The event debuted in Atlanta and later traveled to Washington, D.C., each time drawing students, alumni, and supporters of historically Black colleges and universities.
This year’s sponsors include Chime, Dove, Red Bull, Fenty Beauty, AriZona Hard Teas, and Sol de Janeiro, with additional partners to be announced.
WEEKEND SCHEDULE
Friday, August 29th
- Meet & Greet with Marsai Martin
- Urban Trivia Night
- Kick-Off Party at House of Blues
Saturday, August 30th
- Sai Soul Sessions: Yoga & Soundbath with Walk Good LA
- Black Excellence Brunch x SSC at TSU
Sunday, August 31st
- The Main Event: The Cookout – food, music, laughter, and love
WEEKEND HOSTS
- Scott Evans
- Serena Page
- Zoie Fenty
MUSIC BY
- DJ Richy Smart
- DJ Slater Rose
- DJ Mr Rogers
LIVE PERFORMANCES
- The Session (Live Band)
- Ari Camille (The Voice)
- MonaLeo
- Paul Wall
- Kwn
