8 Festivals and Concerts That Bring Ghana's Music and Culture to Life
By Meg Sagoe (@omg_itz_meg)
Ghana is currently an entertainment hotspot attracting tourists from all over the world. The country hosts a variety of exciting events and shows, usually in the months leading up to December. From thrilling music festivals to captivating concerts, here are some consistent major shows and festivals you should absolutely attend once you find yourself in Ghana at the right time.
AfroNation
AfroNation Ghana is an international music festival celebrating African music and culture. The exciting thing about this festival is that it features a diverse lineup of the hottest African and international artists, becoming known as one of the major stages for the promotion of Afrobeats. It is usually held by the beach. Unfortunately, after holding their event in Ghana for the first time in 2021 and then in 2022, they announced Nigeria as their next African venue. We are still hopeful they’d come back to Accra because what’s a Detty December without AfroNation?
Stay updated: Afronation.com
Afrofuture (fka Afrochella)
Afrofuture is a popular annual music festival held in Accra. It showcases a blend of music, art, culture, and fashion, focusing on promoting African talent and creativity. It’s a two-day event with multiple sub-events and seminars held at different venues focused around the arts, culture and music in the days leading up to the festival. It’s usually held in December and attracts tourists from all over the world. If you find yourself going for this, heads up, dress as colorfully and creatively as you want!
Stay updated: Afrofuture.com
Asa Baako - Takoradi
Asa Baako is an annual music and arts festival held in March in Takoradi. Known for its unique beachside setting and vibrant atmosphere, Asa Baako takes you away from the hassle of Accra to the beautiful beaches at Takoradi, another city in Ghana. Asa Baako means “one dance” and true to its name, it brings together local and international artists, musicians, DJs, and performers to celebrate diverse music genres such as Afrobeats, reggae, hip-hop, and traditional African sounds and fusions. Asa Baako offers a multi-day experience filled with live performances, beach parties, cultural activities, and immersive workshops.
The team also puts together other events within the year. Stay updated: Asa Baako
Chale Wote Street Art Festival
Chale Wote Street Festival is an annual cultural event held in Jamestown, Accra that transforms the streets into an incredibly vibrant celebration of art, music, and creativity for a week. The festival brings together artists, performers, musicians and vendors to showcase their talents and crafts. There are street art installations, live music performances, dance, fashion, and spoken word poetry.
This vibrant street art festival takes place in Jamestown, a historic neighborhood in Accra, known for its rich cultural heritage. Creatives connect and after the festival, the street art remains a tourist attraction.
Stay updated: Chalewote Festival
Takoradi Masquerade Festival
The Takoradi Masquerade Festival, also referred to as the “Ankos Festival” by locals is an annual cultural parade held on the streets of Takoradi, located in Ghana's Western Region. This vibrant event, also often in December, revolves around the captivating tradition of masquerades. Ankos means “life” in the Ghanaian Twi language and the masquerades hold deep cultural significance, believed to embody ancestral spirits and entities. On the festival day, patrons of the event show up in intricate colorful masks and attires and dance down the street in celebration.
Detty Rave
Detty Rave is an annual concert and party spearheaded by the music artist, Mr. Eazi. It features a star-studded lineup of local and international artists across various music genres. Detty Rave offers a night of non-stop entertainment, with electrifying performances from Mr. Eazi, other artists, and DJs. It has definitely become a highly anticipated December event for music lovers and party enthusiasts, for the experience.
Rapperholic
Rapperholic is an annual December concert and celebration that showcases the talent and artistry of renowned Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie. It has become one of the most anticipated events in the Ghanaian music industry with the event offering an electrifying night filled with energetic performances, live music, and special guest appearances. The concert showcases Sarkodie's extensive discography, featuring hits from his rap career and collaborations with other artists. Rapperholic attracts a dedicated fan base and music enthusiasts who come together to enjoy an unforgettable evening of rap music and entertainment.
BHIM
The BHIM Show is another anticipated annual concert organized by Ghanaian dancehall artist Stonebwoy. The concert features captivating performances by Stonebwoy himself and other invited artists, celebrating the vibrant sounds of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats. The BHIM Show provides a platform for Stonebwoy to connect with his fans, share his musical prowess, and spread his positive and empowering messages. It has become a must-attend event for music enthusiasts, offering an unforgettable night of thrilling performances and a celebration of music.
Just like the BHIM, Rapperholic and Detty Rave, in December, many more of your favorite artists organize shows and concerts to connect with fans. King Promise holds his annual Promiseland, Gyakie holds her live experience, Samini has his Saminifest, and Worlasi has Worlafest where many alternative music acts get the chance to thrill music lovers.
For food lovers, from the month of November into December, there are several food festivals celebrating rich and delicious Ghanaian meals and more. There’s Jollof Fest, Waakye Fest, Junkfest, and more where different vendors stay on theme and offer patrons a creative variety of meals.
