Still Thankful Festival: A Day of Community, Gratitude, and Giving Back

Imari Sekajipo is proud to announce the Still Thankful Festival, a transformative full-day community experience rooted in gratitude and giving back, taking place this November at Perry Harvey Sr. Park in Tampa (1000 E Harrison St) on November 29 from 11 AM – 5 PM.

Sekajipo shares, “To me, the event is already successful because people have come together for a cause outside of themselves and unified to do that. That’s a win already to me.”

This deeply personal sentiment underscores the festival’s foundation in building community and fostering resilience. The phrase “still thankful” emerges from Sekajipo ’s own journey, and this year, that feeling was channeled into action through the More Income More Impact Foundation—a vehicle for “purpose-driven service rather than profit.”

The Still Thankful Festival is intentionally designed to pivot away from holiday consumerism. “For too long, we’ve just gone along with the program and bought into certain holidays that were based more on the idea of consumerism than substance,” he explains. “I feel like this event can change that narrative and allow us to take power back into our lives by deciding what we want to make a holiday, what we want to champion.”

The event’s guiding principle—gratitude and love, not commercialism—shapes every aspect of planning, programming, and partnerships.

One of the festival’s highlights is “Resource Row,” where organizations, service providers, and impact-driven brands come together to offer tangible support for attendees.

“I think the awareness of these organizations in their resources is a big thing. I really want people to get connected to and then we want people to smile and enjoy their day and remember that regardless of what they’re going through, they have something to still be thankful for, and that that’s enough for them to keep going regardless of their circumstance.”

Local small businesses and vendors play an essential role, both in supporting the community and promoting economic vitality. Sekajipo notes, “I think stimulating the local economy is important and you know people want to spend a few dollars when they come to these types of events. It’s a normal thing, but I think the balance also comes into where all of the vendors are giving in some sort of way—the food vendors are agreeing to get food at a certain price, and also the small business vendors will be donating towards the raffles.” This approach ensures that commercial elements are balanced by a shared commitment to service and gratitude.

Looking ahead, Sekajipo ’s vision is expansive: “As far as Tampa goes we’re locked in. We are already planning next year’s event. I’ve gotten a couple calls from a few people and we’re in works in a few other cities to replicate the event. I think this is something that should grow nationwide—even be a cultural holiday. I hope that this event inspires other people to just connect, build community, and spread love.”

For individuals, organizations, or businesses interested in getting involved, Sekajipo ’s expectation is clear: “Just have the heart to serve and not look for anything in return. This is a concentrated effort at giving back so whatever you can do will help. I don’t want it to just be a one-day event.”

Join Still Thankful this November 29 as the community comes together to celebrate gratitude, uplift their neighbors, and create lasting impact in Tampa and beyond. For more details or to get involved, visit stillthankfultampa.com.