BY MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – The City of Kings and Queens is once again preparing to come alive with colour, rhythm, and creativity as the Bulawayo Arts Festival (BAF) returns from June 2 to June 5, 2025. This year’s edition promises to be a spectacular showcase of cultural pride, innovation, and artistic expression.
Running under the vibrant theme song “City of Kings” by local hip-hop sensation Guluva Seven, the festival is expected to bring together artists, performers, and creatives from across Zimbabwe and beyond, all converging to celebrate Bulawayo’s rich artistic heritage.
BAF is more than just an event—it's a cultural movement. Held annually in early June, the festival follows Bulawayo Day on June 1, a day that marks the historical declaration of Bulawayo as a town. The timing adds historical significance to the festivities, connecting the city's past with its evolving artistic future.
Over four days, attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of activities, including live music concerts, dance performances, theatre productions, fashion shows, visual arts exhibitions, literary sessions, and cultural dialogues. Local and international acts will share stages across various venues, transforming Bulawayo into a city-wide creative playground.
The 2025 edition also places a strong focus on youth involvement, innovation, and the role of the arts in social and economic development. Workshops, masterclasses, and interactive community projects will give emerging talent the opportunity to learn, network, and showcase their work on a significant platform.
The Bulawayo Arts Festival continues to affirm the city's status as Zimbabwe’s cultural capital, uniting communities through the power of creativity and storytelling. As anticipation builds, the festival is expected to attract thousands of art lovers, tourists, and cultural ambassadors eager to experience the heart and soul of Bulawayo.
