One thing Africa is known for is her rich and diverse cultural heritage which eats deep into the fabric of the continent. These cultures are more alive at specific times of the year when they celebrate feasts and festivals. These historical and cultural festivals in Africa celebrate the diverse traditions of the different cultures within the continent and foster a sense of unity and shared heritage among its people.
The African experience is not complete without the incredible and electrifying festivals that take place around the continent. From desert celebrations to island music carnivals, the continent is never short of colourful festivals and celebrations that showcase and preserve the deep and rich cultural heritage of Africa and promote inter-relationship with neighbouring cultures.
Some of the most popular cultural festivals in Africa are;
AfrikaBurn, South Africa
AfricaBurn is an art festival in South Africa that promotes African art, costumes, performances, theme camps and music through a volunteer and gifting culture. The event takes place in the Tankwa Karoo, located between the Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa, and takes place usually at the end of April every year.
Panafest, Ghana
The Pan African Historical Festival (PANAFEST) is a Pan-African festival started in 1992 by Efua Sutherland. It is a festival that highlights the traumatic experience of the slave trade, serving as a pilgrimage to the Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, which were landmarks of the transatlantic slave trade. Panafest also celebrates African unity through the arts; focusing on theatre, music, and dance.
Fez, Morocco
The Festival of World Sacred Music or Fez Festival as it is generally known is a Moroccan festival that promotes intercultural dialogue and peace through music. The Fez Festival and its Forum were set up in 1994 and 2001 respectively, within the scholarly, artistic and spiritual tradition of the city of Fez, to dialogue, through music and the promotion of peaceful culture, contribute to the development of a pluralized globalization that is respectful ethical and spiritual values. It features performances by artists from various African nations and beyond, celebrating the diversity of spiritual music traditions.
FESPACO, Burkina Faso
FESPACO is the largest film festival in Africa, showcasing films that reflect the diverse cultures and issues across the continent. The festival is a biennial event held in the capital of Burkina, Ouagadougou. It serves as a platform for filmmakers and promotes to showcase and exchange their art and ideas.
Zanzibar International Film Festival, Tanzania
Zanzibar’s International Film Festival is a vibrant celebration of film, music, and art that showcases diverse African and international films, fostering cultural exchange through the power of cinema. The festival is an annual festival, held on the island of Zanzibar and is crowned with an award night and energy-filled after-parties on the beach.
READ ALSO: Exploring Africa’s Best Family-Friendly Destinations
Lake of Stars, Malawi
Lake of Stars festival is a magical event that unfolds on the shores of the breathtaking Lake Malawi. This festival highlights the sounds of local Malawian musicians with international bands and DJs. The atmosphere and serene environment encourage interactions from people across the diverse cultural heritage and opportune a swim session in the crystal-clear lake, relaxation on pristine beaches, or volunteer in local community projects.
Durbar Festival, Nigeria
The Durbar festival is a colourful celebration that dates back to the time of the Northern Nigerian Emirates. It is the largest procession of colourful horses in the world. It marks the Islamic holidays Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha and features horse riding displays, music, and traditional attire, bringing together various communities in Northern Nigeria.
Cultural Festivals in Africa are good forms of entertainment and recreation. These festivals showcase the diversity of African cultures and traditions and emphasize the shared histories, traditions, and aspirations. These festivals are very good tools for promoting unity and mutual understanding among African nations and the global community.
