SWAHILI DAY 2025
SATURDAY, JUNE 7, 2025
4th Annual
Welcome to the Marafiki Center's annual African cultural celebration!
This is our 4th year celebrating the diverse culture of Africans living in Lexington.
Swahili Day is a one-day festival celebrating African culture and the Swahili language as the 3rd most spoken language in Lexington.
Join us for African music, food, arts & crafts, dances, drums, fashion, and a live band.
From bustling market stalls to a lively lineup of dancers and musicians to delicious food, this dynamic event is fun for the whole family.
All are welcome!
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 June 3rd the official "Swahili Day." (This year we are celebrating on Sat., June 7, 2025).
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 2025 sponsors
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Marafiki Kids Corner
Bring your children and let them enjoy an array of activities including face painting, cultural crafts, and a bounce house.
African Market Place
Commercial and informational stalls selling African products such as clothing, fabrics, home wares and accessories.
Live Music & Performances
Enjoy Afrobeats from our event DJ and a center stage filled with lively performances including artists, dancers, drummers, and other unique cultural performances.
Cultural Fashion Show
Two carefully curated showcases by African designers inspired by traditional African fashion.
Local and Cultural Food Vendors
African foods, drinks and treats from all walks of life and some of Lexington's favorite food trucks and vendors.
Community Partners
Collect information from booths set up by helpful community partners and organizations.
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DJ and Live Congolese Music Band
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Artist Exhibitions
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Food Vendors
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African Drumming
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Cultural Fashion Show
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Dance Performances
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Bounce House for Kids
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Face Painting
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Learn some Swahili phrases with us!