Everything we know about AFRIQUES Festival at Aux Gazelles

The AFRIQUES Festival at Aux Gazelles has reached its halfway mark, and the first two weeks have been nothing short of extraordinary. As we continue to celebrate contemporary African art and culture throughout the month of August, we’re excited to share some of the standout moments that have made this festival an unmissable experience.

The festival kicked off with a grand opening that gave attendees a first look at our contemporary art exhibition, featuring immersive installations and powerful works from artists across the African continent and the diaspora, such as:

Louise Deininger (Uganda), Thomas Vava (Uganda), Daniela Frimpong-Mansoh (Ghana), Alphonse Ndagijiamana (Rwanda), Khulekani Cele (South Africa), Boris Anje (Cameroon), Noumimbimbou Nijele Leuna (Cameroon), Meriem Yin (Morocco), Baba Diedhiou (Senegal), Moustapha Baïdi Oumarou (Cameroon), Damilola Moses Opedun (Nigeria), Taiye Erewele (Nigeria), Famakan Magasa (Mali), Wasiu Eshinlokun (Nigeria), Selassie (Ghana) und Johnson Ocheja (Nigeria). 

Guests were also treated to a taste of our new African cuisine, crafted to take them on a culinary journey through diverse flavors and traditions. The stage at AFRIQUES has seen a lineup of incredible performances that have captivated our audiences:

• Adama Dicko & Seno Blues delivered a soulful and electrifying set that set the tone for the festival.
• Zakaria Ouelman mesmerized with his unique blend of music.
• Rick Toldon & Barbara Miller brought a stunning dinner performance combining violin and African drums, creating a fusion of sounds that delighted all in attendance.
• Workshops on Psychosocial Health provided invaluable insights, while our Sound Bath session offered moments of peace and reflection.

Our Cinema D’Afrique has also been a key highlight, showcasing films that bring African stories and perspectives to life on the big screen. Our Sunday Brunches have become a beloved festival tradition, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy African cuisine while engaging with art and culture in a more intimate way.

One of the most memorable evenings was Ghana Night, featuring a vibrant fashion show by the talented Barbara Alli. The night was elevated by a live performance from Selassie & Anthony Mills. On the steps by the “Square of Human Rights,” Lituation Live brought the festival’s energy to new heights with an artist showcase that highlighted their talented artist roster such as Meydo, T-Ser, Taylah and Hoodie Beeb. Our Lagos Vibes Echoes night was a celebration of the vibrant sounds of Lagos. Hosted by Ola Badiru, the event featured a special live performance by the sensational Rose May Alaba, with supporting acts 419c, Nemi, Tonica Hunter, Mouse Wine, and 20euro20euro adding to the evening’s magic.

A major highlight was the performance by Tanzanian superstar Country Wizzy, who lit up the stage alongside local artists NEXXT and Le Roi. Their dynamic performances created an unforgettable night that still resonates with attendees.

As we continue into the second half of the AFRIQUES Festival, we look forward to even more incredible performances, exhibitions, and cultural experiences. Stay tuned for more surprises and highlights as we celebrate the richness and diversity of Africa in the heart of Vienna.

Highlights coming up in the next two weeks – AFRIQUES Festival at Aux Gazelles:

21.08 
Gnawa Music by Zakaria Ouelman
Cinéma d’Afrique : 
Une vie inégale 
Louka

22.08 
Gold Caviar Crew Afro-Dance Workshop

23.08 
A Tribute to Dakar:
Fashion Show by Rama Diaw and a live performance by Ibou Ba & Daradji Percussion

24.08 
Club Mandingo featuring DJ Nachtnebel

25.08 
Big Picnic on the Terrace

28.08 
Soundbath – A journey through Africa
Cinéma d’Afrique: 
Documentary: The Great Green Wall
The Cemetery of Cinema

30.08 

Afro-Beats & Latin Heat Night by Dj Soulcat & Friends

31.08 

Bal D’Afrique – The Grand Finale