Line-up announced for Africa Day 2026, Royal Hospital Kilmainham

Thousands of people are expected to attend the flagship national Africa Day celebration, which returns to the Royal Hospital Kilmainham for its fourth year. The event celebrates the diversity, vibrancy and richness of African cultures, as well as the growing links between Ireland and countries across the African continent.

This year’s Main Stage programme will feature performances from Tony Oscar, Ridler Tempo, Chris Kabs, Asha Ari and the Discovery Gospel Choir, alongside DJ sets from Monte the DJ and the high-energy Presidential Dance Cypher. The ever-popular Best Dressed Competition will also return, showcasing fashion and style inspired by cultures across Africa.

The Rhythm Stage will host a vibrant programme of dance, music and interactive performances led by Africa Day ambassador Lapree Lala and DJ KayOneKay. Performers and groups taking part include Southside Moves, The Zoryanna Fusion Dancers, Afrokids Ireland, Official PAK, Andre – Southsiide Dre, Sarah & Mbali, Khass, Amavevane Acapella, Ghana Union and DAPA. Interactive drumming workshops will also take place throughout the day.

The Spoken Word area will provide space for conversation, creativity and storytelling, featuring a panel discussion titled The Irish–Africa Bridge, an open mic session Voices of the Diaspora, poetry showcase The Rough Draft: Echoes of Africa, Africa My First Love: The Griots Corner, and a live podcast recording hosted by Black & Irish.

In addition to the stage programming, Africa Day Dublin 2026 will feature a lively and interactive Cultural Village showcasing organisations, crafts, art, and traditions from countries and communities across Africa. Visitors can also enjoy a dedicated Children’s Entertainment area, interactive workshops and a wide range of African food experiences throughout the festival site.

Africa Day Dublin is organised in partnership between the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Dublin City Council and forms part of a wider nationwide programme of events taking place across 31 local authorities. Events around the country will celebrate contemporary African and Irish-African culture through music, dance, art, film, fashion, food and community activities.

Commenting on this year’s line-up, Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, said:

“Africa Day is an opportunity for people across Ireland to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of African cultures and to recognise the growing links between Ireland and countries across Africa.

The flagship event at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham has become a fantastic family day out, bringing communities together through music, dance, food and culture. I’m delighted to see such a strong line-up for Africa Day 2026 and I am looking forward to this year’s celebrations.”