Exciting African Festivals Around the Globe
We’re declaring 2022 the year of art, culture and travel. With that in mind, we explore all the innovative and inspiring African festivals going on this year that you won’t want to miss out on.
30th Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival - February 8-21, Los Angeles
The Annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) is a not for profit organization that aims to encourage “cultural understanding among the people of African descent” through art and film. Every February the PAFF showcases over 150 new films by black creators and is attended by industry professionals, community leaders and cultural icons. This year, the PAFF celebrates its 30th year running
AfrikaBurn April 2022, Tankwa Town South Africa
Founded in 2007 and situated on private land just out of Tankwa Karoo National Park, AfrikaBurn is billed as Africa’s answer to Burning Man. And with the barren terrain of the location, you’d be forgiven for comparing the two. That’s not where the comparison ends, like Burning Man, AfrikaBurn is more than just a music festival, here you will find healing workshops, art exhibitions and take a deep dive into alternative ways of living. However, AfrikaBurn retains its unique African voice and expression and almost feels like an interactive concept art piece that you get to spend the weekend experiencing.
Ake Arts and Book Festival 22-27 November, Abeokuta, Nigeria
A cultural feast that draws artists, writers, poets, musicians, dancers and thinkers with the primary objective to promote, develop and celebrate creativity on the African continent through panel discussions, workshops, bookchats, plays, poetry events, concerts and performances.
Afropunk July 9-10, Paris, France
An annual arts and music festival founded in Brooklyn that explores the connection between art, music, fashion and culture. Since it’s conception, AFROPUNK has visited cities all over the world, spreading the message of diversity and culture shared through music and art. This year, AFROPUNK will make its way to Paris and although artists are yet to be announced, we know 2022 is going to be a big one.
Swahili Fashion Week 2-4 December, Tanzania
The biggest annual fashion event in Africa, Swahili Fashion Week provides Swahili speaking creators a platform to exhibit fashion and accessories. Created with the intent to showcase and highlight local designers and with the Made in Africa ethos at the core, Swahili Fashion Week shines the light on up and coming artists from the region.
With so much to offer, 2022 is already gearing up to be the year that African culture takes center stage. Whether you find yourself in Paris or Tanzania, there’s a festival for you that celebrates the diversity of the African continent while feeding all the senses.
ArtX, Lagos, Nigeria is usually held in November.
West Africa’s leading contemporary art fair. This four day event features local art galleries and showcases emerging artists from all over Africa. With panel talks from industry leaders, music events and interactive art projects, ArtX is an all inclusive art experience. 2020 and 2021 saw ArtX experiment with a mixture of virtual and physical exhibitions in a fusion of contemporary art in the digital age.
AfroChella, Accra, Ghana, usually holds in December.
A celebration of Africa’s vibrant and diverse culture and creative scene, Afrochella is designed to highlight Africa’s up and coming talent. This immersive festival celebrates art, music and fashion through an African lens.
