State Parks, Ubuntu Nerudo team up to host African Heritage Festival

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Parks Folk and Traditional Arts Program (FTAP) and Kirkland-based non-profit Ubuntu Nerudo will partner to hold the second-annual Ubuntu Nerudo African Heritage Festival at Lake Sammamish State Park next month.

The festival aims to bring together people from the many African countries who call the Northwest home. The event runs from noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 1.

The festival is a day of music, food, fellowship and sharing. This year’s event showcases traditions from Botswana, South Africa, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The festival includes two Marimba bands; dancing and community food from Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi; musical instrument demonstrations (and a chance to try playing them); food preparation workshops; storytelling; hikes and walks led by park staff; and more!

Though the 2024 festival focuses on the Southern African countries, Unbutu Nerudo organizers Ranga and Ken Chikonzo welcome people from all African countries, Americans with African heritage and anyone interested in learning about these rich cultures.

The festival is family-friendly and free to the public. A Discover Pass is required to park at Lake Sammamish State Park.