URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – Jean René Balekita, a renowned African music instructor at Center for the Arts (C4A), is leading an all-day festival to celebrate the rich tapestry of African culture.
The Ngoma African Festival is Sunday, June 23, at and will feature music, dance, art, history, cuisine, and fashion, along with activities for kids and fun for everyone.
All activities are FREE and open to the public.
Here’s a summary of the day’s activities:
10:30 – 11:30 AM: Family-Friendly Event at C4A
Kick off the day with a family-friendly event at C4A. Enjoy drumming, a mini-concert, and an instrument petting zoo. Admission is free!
1:00 – 2:30 PM: Cultural Event at Lincoln Square Mall
Head over to Lincoln Square Mall for a cultural extravaganza featuring a fashion show. The opening ceremonies will include remarks from Togby Nyaho Tamakloe VI, Miafago of Anlo state-Ghana. Admission is free!
3:00 – 4:00 PM: Drumming and Dance at The Urbana Free Library
Join us at The Urbana Free Library for an exciting drumming and dance session. Bokulaka, an expert traditional African drummer and dancer, will lead this dance party. Admission is free!
4:00 – 7:00 PM: Free Street Fair on Gregory Street
End the day with a street fair on Gregory Street, between Krannert Center for the Performing Arts and Spurlock Museum. Enjoy music performances by local favorite Laeticia Kyungu and international artist Michel Bakenda. Savor traditional African cuisine from various vendors, and explore activities for kids and families, African art displays, and information tables about Urbana’s sister city in Malawi and C4A Community Music School.
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Contact us to learn about becoming an official sponsor of this festival!
Ngoma African Festival would like to thank its current sponsors: