The Dashiki Festival, stands as a vibrant celebration of African heritage. This dynamic cultural event is meticulously crafted to encompass every facet of African culture. The 9^th edition of the event was held recently at the Levitt Pavilion in Denver with Femi Kuti, son of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti as the headline act.

The Colorado Dashiki Festival is a dynamic event that honors African heritage while embracing diversity and unity within the community. It’s a colorful extravaganza where people of all backgrounds come together to celebrate the rich traditions, music, dance, fashion, and cuisine of African and Afrocentric cultures.

The festival showcases African music, captivating cultural performances, delectable African cuisine, and a showcase of African arts, culminating in a spectacular African fashion show. Attendees immerse themselves in the festivities by donning African attire, adorned with traditional jewelry and prints.

Throughout his prolific career, Femi Kuti has stood as a powerful voice for justice, carrying forward the revolutionary Afrobeat legacy pioneered by his father, Fela Kuti. Known for his unflinching critiques of political corruption and social inequality, Femi’s heady mix of funk, jazz and highlife has always been a tool for resistance and change.

Femi began his career as a member of Fela’s legendary band, Egypt ’80, and briefly stepped into the role of front man when his father was imprisoned on fabricated charges in 1984. In 1986 he left to create his own band Positive Force, and has been forging his own style of Afrobeat ever since, adding doses of R&B, rock, and hip hop to the traditional Yoruba rhythms and jazzy horns. Lyrically, however, his focus has remained firmly on issues of power, oppression, and social injustice, and his activism has extended beyond music through collaborations with organizations like Global Citizen and his role as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador.

Below are some images from the festival.