Tauranga Historic Village in 17th Ave will be come alive with a colourful celebration of vibrant music, dance, food, and culture as the city celebrates Africa Day 2025 on June 7.

From 11am-5pm this Saturday, a free, family-friendly event will transform the village into a celebration of African heritage, with live performances, traditional and contemporary African cuisine, artisan crafts, and interactive cultural experiences.

“We are thrilled to invite everyone to join us in celebrating Africa Day 2025 at the Historic Village,” said Ubuntu African Society Bay of Plenty Inc president Faustinah Ndlovu.

“It’s a day to honour our past, celebrate our present, and envision our future together. Through music, art, and community, we hope to share African culture with the Bay of Plenty region and support African unity.”

The event promises a kaleidoscope of colour and rhythm, with African drumming, dance performances, cultural displays, and delicious food stalls offering authentic flavours from across the continent.

Ndlovu said attendees can expect electrifying performances from African artists, captivating crafts, tantalising tastes of authentic African cuisine and both traditional and modern expressions of African culture.

“This year’s festival marks a significant milestone as it’s the first time Africa Day Bay of Plenty is being organised here by Ubuntu African Society Bay of Plenty Inc, in collaboration with Nadine Nahimana of ORIKoL Production.”

The event is supported by funding from Lottery Grants, Tauranga City Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Waste Wizard Ltd and the Ministry of Ethnic Communities.

Africa Day, formerly known as Africa Liberation Day, is celebrated worldwide to mark the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) on May 25, 1963, now known as the African Union (AU).

It recognises the continent’s diverse and rich cultural heritage, history, and the collective efforts towards unity and progress. Celebrated annually, Africa Day is marked by various events and activities around the world, highlighting African achievements, challenges, and aspirations.

“Whether you’re part of the African diaspora, a friend of Africa, or simply curious to explore new cultures, Africa Day 2025 offers a unique opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Africa’s rich continent and celebrate the spirit, rhythm and unity of Africa – right here in Tauranga,” Ndlovu said.

The Africa Day Festival 2025 is at Tauranga Historic Village 11am-5pm, June 7. Entry is free.

For more information, visit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africadabayofplenty/

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