Africa Day, the annual worldwide celebration of the people, cultures and potential of the African continent, returns to Dublin’s Royal Hospital Kilmainham (RHK) this year as part of a nationwide programme of events to mark the day. Last year’s event attracted over 6,000 and the organisers are confident they will smash that figure as they program another excellent event for all ages to enjoy. The event will host a main stage with musical performances by special guests, a dance area, a ‘cultural village’ that will bring together organisations to showcase art, crafts and culture from across Africa, a children’s entertainment area, and numerous food stalls.
Ireland has celebrated Africa Day since 2006, which officially falls on May 25th, and this year that date sees a countywide program of events including Festivals in the Lusk Community Cultural Centre, North County Dublin, where there will be a Taste of African food, African music, dance and a podcast with Black & Irish voices. The Flemington Community Centre in Balbriggan hosts Africa: The Achievements, Talent and Journey of the Second Generation African Irish where the Balbriggan African Community will showcase traditional African poetry, music, food, and costume, as well as live performances by youths playing different musical instruments and a presentation by two youth motivational speakers on their lived experience.
In South Dublin, The Tymon Park Festival in Tymon Park, Tallaght, hosts live music, dance shows, storytelling, and a Drumming workshop while The Palmerstown Festival in Palmerstown Community Centre, Kennelsfort Road Lower, Woodfarm, Dublin 20 hosts food tasting, hair braiding and an African fashion show.
For lovers of the beautiful game there’s a Mini World Cup Tournament being held in The Adamstown Community Centre in West Dublin so if you fancy representing your country on the pitch now’s the time to get involved.
For all info on the multiple events taking place on Africa Day nationwide visit africaday.ie
Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Sunday May 19th, from Midday. Admission is free.
