In need of some inspiration for your dose of African music and culture, this summer? Then fear not, we’ve got you covered…
AFRO NATION MUSIC FESTIVAL
A must for any self-respecting afrobeats fan… Portugal.
If you’re into your afrobeat and you don’t know this festival – well, it’s high time you got educated! Undoubtedly the biggest Afrobeat festival on the planet, Afro Nation attracts the top afrobeat stars to this sun-kissed corner of the Algarve (this year’s headliners across the 3-day festival are Burna Boy, Wizkid and Davido, just to give you an idea!).
Enjoy sun, sea and the best artists in Afrobeats, Amapiano, Hip Hop, RnB, Dancehall and more. All as you top up your tan and enjoy some cocktails as the sun sets. Praia da Rocha, about two miles south of Portimão, is the town’s main beach. The stunning beach is surrounded by stunning red-rock cliffs, so it’s no surprise Praia da Rocha means ‘Rocky Beach’ in Portuguese. It’s one of the most popular and liveliest beaches in The Algarve making it the perfect home for Afro Nation Portugal. Sound like heaven? It is.
28th-30th June, Portimao, Algarve, Portugal. See www.afronation.com for tickets..
KENAKO AFRICA FESTIVAL
Berlin’s Premier African festival Celebration.
Hipster Berlin has been a long-time advocate for African culture, embracing it with open arms. It was in this vibrant city that the Ghanaian music genre High Life first blossomed in Europe. One of the most lively and vibrant celebrations of African culture is the Kenako African Festival, which takes place in Berlin’s central Alexanderplatz for ten days every July.
This festival brings the warmth and vibrancy of African culture right to the heart of the German capital. Each day is filled with tantalizing food, captivating music, mesmerizing dance performances, and engaging theatre shows. Additionally, you’ll find numerous stalls offering a wide range of clothes, crafts, and souvenirs that will surely tempt you to make a purchase.
Beyond the festivities, the Kenako African Festival also hosts workshops, readings, film screenings, and discussion rounds as part of its Global Learning project. This initiative aims to showcase the rich and diverse cultural life in Africa while also addressing existing challenges and promoting cross-cultural dialogue.
Immerse yourself in the colorful and diverse world of African culture at the Kenako African Festival, and be part of the discussions that bridge cultures and foster understanding.
20th-30th July, Alexanderrplatz, Berlin. See
https://allexciting.com/kenako-africa-festival-berlin/
AFRO PFINGSTEN FESTIVAL
African Art and Culture Festival, Switzerland.
Experience the vibrant Afro-Pfingsten festival in Winterthur, Switzerland, in 2023. This exciting event takes place throughout the picturesque city, showcasing a fusion of African arts and culture.
Immerse yourself in the traditional market located in the charming old town, where you can indulge in delectable street food, explore African arts and crafts, witness captivating street performances, and enjoy live music on the market stage near Kirchplatz. The festival offers a diverse range of musical genres, including Afrobeat, Gospel, African Folk, and Bambara Rap, performed by artists from Mali, Nigeria, Cabo Verde, Jamaica, and Zurich.
Beyond the music, the festival addresses important themes, ranging from love and peace to social criticism, women’s rights, self-irony, and satire. For four days, national and international artists will grace the stages of Salzhaus, while a supporting program will unfold in Liebestrasse and various other locations over six days. Engage in workshops, attend readings, join after-parties, explore art exhibitions, participate in panel discussions, and enjoy a dedicated Family Day.
Take in the fresh air, admire stunning views, and immerse yourself in the richness of African culture at Afro-Pfingsten. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience!
24-29 May 2023, Winterthur, see
https://afro-pfingsten.seetickets.com/tour/afro-pfingsten-festival-2023 for tickets.
AFRICA OYE FESTIVAL
Africa Oye Festival Liverpool, Uk
Liverpool, known as the hometown of the Beatles, is set to host one of the UK’s largest celebrations of African music and culture this June. Africa Oyé, following its triumphant 30th-anniversary edition in 2022, will take over Sefton Park for two days of electrifying live music, engaging workshops, vibrant DJ stages, mouthwatering food stalls, and a diverse range of traders in the lively Oyé Village.
On Saturday, the festival event will conclude with a stellar performance by dancehall and reggae artist Tanya Stephens, while Sunday will see Seun Kuti, son of the legendary afrobeat star Fela Kuti, along with his band Egypt 80, wrapping up the proceedings. The lineup also includes talented artists from Ghana (FRA!), Guinea-Bissau (Kimi Djabaté), and Cameroon (Veeby), with more exciting acts yet to be announced.
In addition to the musical extravaganza, the Oyé Active Zone will host free multi-arts workshops throughout the entire weekend. This year, a brand-new Toddler Zone will cater specifically to the youngest festival-goers, ensuring a delightful experience for families. Moreover, the highly acclaimed DJ stages, Trenchtown and Freetown, are confirmed to make a return, guaranteeing non-stop grooves and infectious beats.
Join the vibrant atmosphere and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of African music and culture at Africa Oyé in Liverpool. This is an unmissable event for music enthusiasts and cultural enthusiasts alike!
ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE
Essence Magazine Festival, New Orlean
New Orleans, a captivating city renowned for its jazz, blues, and vibrant culture, is home to the largest annual music festival in the United States celebrating African-American culture. What started as a one-time event to commemorate the silver jubilee of Essence magazine has now evolved into a sensational yearly gathering. Known as “the party with a purpose,” this festival empowers and provides a platform for musicians, artists, speakers, and entrepreneurs within the African-American community.
This year’s lineup of headliners is nothing short of impressive. Prepare to be blown away by the dynamic performances of Megan Thee Stallion, with the extraordinary Special Guest appearance by none other than Wizkid. Additionally, the musical icon herself, Lauryn Hill, will grace the stage in a very special 25th Anniversary performance of her iconic album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.”
Beyond the music, this festival has grown into one massive celebration, offering a blend of entertainment, inspiration, and community engagement. It’s a testament to the power of unity and the talent within the African-American community.
Join the festivities in New Orleans and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of African-American culture. This event promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with incredible performances and meaningful connections.
Thu, Jun 29, 2023 – Mon, Jul 3, 2023, New Orleans, U.S. See www.essence.com/essencefestival2023.
AFROPUNK BROOKLYN FEST 2023
BROOKLYN FEST 2023
Calling all rebels, misfits, and non-conformists! Get ready for the most fiercely unapologetic celebration of black culture and music in the heart of New York City’s most alternative district. This festival isn’t for the faint-hearted—it’s a gathering of individuals who want to break free from the daily grind, challenge societal norms, and revel in a carefree party atmosphere. As boldly proclaimed on their website, “This is a space where you can embrace your uniqueness and take pride in who you are!”
This unique festival offers more than just music—it’s a vibrant fusion of music, culture, and rebellion. The lineup boasts a diverse range of genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The festival cultivates an atmosphere of love, inclusivity, and zero tolerance for racism, sexism, homophobia, or any form of hatred.
Prepare for an immersive experience where you can let your authentic self shine and celebrate the freedom of expression. It’s a gathering where individuality is celebrated, and the energy is electric.
Join this unforgettable celebration of black culture and music, and experience the love, acceptance, and rebellious spirit that defines this extraordinary festival.
Aug 26th-27th, Brooklyn’s Commodore Barry Park, New York. See https://afropunk.com/
SAUTI ZA BUSARA
Sauti Za Busara Festival Tanzania
If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania early next year, make sure to include a visit to the capital for the Sauti Za Busara Festival on your itinerary. Although this festival doesn’t strictly take place during the summer, it’s a must-see event for any culture vulture. Held in the vibrant city of Zanzibar, this four-day celebration of African music brings together over 400 musicians on three massive stages.
The festival offers more than just music. Prepare to be enthralled by fire eaters, mesmerizing dancers, and an array of delicious local food stalls. With artists from Ghana, Mozambique, Morocco, South Africa, Reunion Island, and many more, Sauti Za Busara Festival is quickly gaining recognition as the best-kept secret for experiencing the brilliance of African music.
Picture yourself on a beautiful island, surrounded by captivating beats – it’s an experience you’re sure to love.
9-11 February 2014, Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania. See www.busaramusic.org for more.
COTTON FEST DURBAN
Loading … Cotton Fest gets a new location this summer.
Get ready as the ever-popular South African music and youth culture festival, Cotton Fest, makes its debut on the shores of Durban this July. Initially launched in Johannesburg in 2019 by the late global music and fashion icon Riky Rick, this festival has swiftly become one of the most highly anticipated events on South Africa’s entertainment calendar. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse lineup, Cotton Fest not only showcases outstanding music performances but also pays homage to South African street culture, incorporating elements of fashion, sports, art, food, and more.
At Cotton Fest, expect an unforgettable experience with two stages: The Cotton Stage featuring headliners, and the second stage highlighting the emerging talents of the New Wave. The lineup, which remains a closely guarded secret for now, consistently features the hottest South African talent, ensuring an electrifying showcase of musical prowess.
Join this groundbreaking festival that celebrates the essence of South African youth culture. Immerse yourself in the infectious energy, diverse artistic expressions, and the vibrant fusion of music, fashion, and street culture that define Cotton Fest.
Sun 2nd July, from noon, Kings Park Stadium Outer Fields, Durban, South Africa. See https://cottonfest.co.za for this, and other festival locations.
City Splash FESTIVAL
Brockwell Park
Sights, Taste and sounds from the Carribean down to Africa are all garnished with a colourful mix of culture and diversity at this unique one-day festival, bringing all the carnival vibes to this green corner of South London. This year’s headliners include Kronixx, Grammy award-winner Koffee, afrobeat star Ayra Starr and Shenseea, amongst others. An inclusive, family-friendly festival which ticks all the boxes if you’re into your African and Carribean culture – not to mention the food… 29th, May 2023 Brockwell Park, South London, UK. See…
https://www.city-splash.com/
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