Join Us for the African Festival Melbourne and Stay COVID Safe!
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and flavours of Africa at the much-loved African Festival, returning to Queen Victoria Market for its 3rd year! With two days of exciting festivities, delicious food, lively entertainment, and free activities for all, this is the perfect winter break event that you don't want to miss. However, amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial for us to prioritize everyone's safety. Let's come together as a community and ensure we enjoy the festival while following the necessary precautions.
Event Details
Date: Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 July
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Location: Queen Victoria Market (C&D Shed)
Entertainment Highlights
Saturday 15th July
Throughout the day, we have an incredible lineup of entertainment that will captivate your senses and get you moving to the beat:
- WALA Drumming Workshop: Join the WALA team as they share their ancestral history through drumming. Let the rhythm guide you as you sing and dance in celebration.
- WALA Drum & Dance Performance: Experience the dynamic fusion of African drums, flutes, dance, and vocal harmonies in a breathtaking display of culture and tradition.
- David Smile Dance: Get ready to smile and have fun on the dance floor as David teaches Afro-Latin dance styles, including Cuban salsa, reggaeton, kizomba, and Afro grooves.
- One Spirit Africa: This Afro-fusion band will take you on a musical journey with powerful and authentic sounds, deep-rooted in Ghanaian culture and spirituality.
Sunday 16th July
Sunday promises another day of electrifying entertainment:
- Octaves Sylver - DJ & MC: Born in Congo Brazzaville and raised in NZ, Octaves will keep the crowd engaged with explosive music that will get your body moving.
- Super Mande Percussion: Immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms of West African music with this drumming academy and performance group led by Mady Keita, a renowned Master Drummer from Mali.
- M.A.D. Dance Crew: Be mesmerized by their choreographed performances, freestyling, and interactive workshops that will get you moving and grooving.
- Sonik Waves: Experience the enchanting music of Mauritius as this Melbourne-based Mauritian Cultural Band takes you on a journey with traditional Mauritian rhythms and captivating Island Styles music.
COVID-Safe Practices
While we celebrate African culture and community at the festival, it is essential to prioritize the health and safety of all attendees. We kindly ask you to adhere to the following COVID-safe practices:
1. Physical Distancing: Maintain a safe distance of at least 1.5 meters from others who are not part of your household or social group.
2. Face Masks: Wear a face mask in crowded areas or when physical distancing is not possible, as per the current health guidelines.
3. Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitiser provided throughout the event area.
4. Follow Organizers' Instructions: Pay attention to any specific instructions provided by the festival organizers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Food and Shopping
The festival is a haven for food lovers, with vendors serving mouthwatering dishes from Ghana, South Africa, Senegal, and more. Explore the rich flavours of Africa right here in Melbourne! Additionally, don't miss the opportunity to shop for African giftware and jewellery, adding a touch of culture to your collection.
The African Festival Melbourne at Queen Victoria Market promises two days of cultural immersion, exciting entertainment, and delectable food. Let's come together as a community, celebrate African culture, and embrace the joyous atmosphere while prioritizing our health and the well-being of others. Remember to follow COVID-safe practices, and we look forward to seeing you at this unforgettable event!
