Footscray Celebrates Africa

As part of the 2025 Sleepless Festival Footscray, “Footscray Celebrates Africa” will transform Nicholson Street Mall into a vibrant cultural street party on Saturday May 17th — a free, all-ages event that honours and celebrates the African Australian communities of Melbourne’s west.

This high-energy celebration features a stellar lineup of artists, including the electrifying Jarabi Band, the powerful Mandé Spirit ensemble, the dance-inducing Seben Brothers, and the explosive Wala - Is Life. Legendary PBS broadcaster Stani Goma will host the festivities, with vinyl spun by an interstitial DJ keeping the rhythm alive throughout the day.

Visitors will be immersed in African culture through live music, dance performances and educational performances describing the evolution of Afro-Funk — all set in the heart of Footscray’s bustling city centre.

More than just a festival, this free public event is a joyful expression of cultural pride, unity, and education through celebration. It creates space for connection and conversation, shining a light on the diversity of the African continent — its languages, traditions, and histories — and the vibrant role it plays in shaping Footscray’s cultural identity.

Delivered through integral support and partnership with West Gate Tunnel Project and Maribyrnong City Council, this special event marks a cornerstone of the 2025 Sleepless Festival Footscray, with a mission to celebrate, uplift, and connect the community through the arts.