5th Annual
SWAHILI DAY
SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026
GATTON PARK
795 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40507
2 pm - 8 pm
Swahili Day is a community festival celebrating the diverse African cultures in Kentucky.
It celebrates Swahili as the 3rd most spoken language in Lexington.
Join us for African music, food, arts & crafts, dances, drums, fashion, and live music.
From bustling market stalls to a lively lineup of dancers and musicians to delicious food, this dynamic event is fun for the whole family.
This is a free, family-friendly event. All are welcome!
JOIN US
Vendor applications are open to African-owned businesses or services, artists, craft makers, cultural exhibit displays, food, and more!
Performer applications are open to any African-led entertainment representing African culture, including but not limited to: dance, music, fashion, performance art, drumming, instruments, and more!
Click on the Performers button if you are signing up for the
High School Afro-Dance Competition.
Community Partner applications are open to non-African-led entities interested in connecting and sharing resources, information, or programs and services. This is a non-sales booth.
Your gift will support our year-round programming serving refugee and immigrant youth and families. Donations are tax-deductible. Click to donate and show your support.
The official swahili day after
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You asked for it, and now we are thrilled to bring you the official Swahili Day After Party, where the classy Afro-vibes continue at Lexington's newest private club, The Melroy.
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Doors open at 9:30 pm and close at 1:00 am.
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25 years and up only. (IDs will be checked at the door.)
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Dress up and enjoy a variety of Afrobeats with DJ DeeB on deck.
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Limited space. Buy your tickets early to ensure your spot ($30 per person).
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Groups of 5 can reserve VIP lounge seating and enjoy one free cocktail per person with purchase ($300 per group).
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Location: 144 N Broadway, Lexington, KY 40507
ABOUT SWAHILI DAY
The first Swahili Day was held in 2022. This dynamic event showcases Lexington's African community, most of whom speak Swahili. We invite everyone to come and experience the diverse cultures, food, music, and arts of Africa. Support African-owned businesses selling goods in the market stalls. The center stage will feature performers in dance, drums, music, and a fashion show. Learn some Swahili too!
In 2023, the Mayor of Lexington honored Marafiki Center with a proclamation recognizing the contributions of the African community in Lexington and declaring Lexington's official "Swahili Day."
Swahili Day is made possible by the generosity of donors and volunteers from the community. Each year we fundraise and offer sponsorship opportunities. Consider making a donation to the Marafiki Center. All funds raised by the Marafiki Center are used to host Swahili Day and to provide cultural programs throughout the season.
Thank you to our 2026 event partners
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