Wakanda 5: African Celebration in Mount Vernon
There are many ways to connect and learn about other cultures in Westchester. One of the most popular ways to have a better understanding and appreciation of Africa is at the Wakanda 5 African celebration. This year celebrates the fifth anniversary of the Wakanda Celebration.
Created by Rose Luangisa of the Luangisa African Gallery, the Wakanda Celebration is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the culture, pride, music, arts, and community of Africa. The organization hopes to further enhance their programming and education for African culture, history, and the arts in Westchester by opening an African museum and cultural center in the near future.
Held on September 3rd at the Traphagen School, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a plethora of activities centered around Africa. This includes an African fashion show, authentic African and Caribbean food, children’s activations, and shopping from local vendors and handmade goods made by African artisans. The event also includes a stellar line-up of live music, dancing, and performances. This includes Dr. Garvey and The Scrubs; The Revelators Dance Troupe; Bokandeye African American Dance Theater; and the Gena Roots Band. The entertainment commences with a live DJ and jamboree at the end of the evening.
Not to missed is the Luangisa Wearable Art Experience featuring live music from PitsiRa Ragophala YaMabala and the Live Band. Taking place at 5pm, this is a global fashion experience where guests can see models wearing handmade and artisan-made fashions and accessories from Africa.
There will also be a Children’s Village at the event. Here, kids can read books from the Mount Vernon Library, play with LEGOs, enjoy a craft and activity from Arts Westchester’s ArtsMobile truck, and get their faces painted. There will also be rides for kids – mechanical and bounce houses – at the event. The rides will be free for those in attendance. Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets.
A fun day for all, the Wakanda 5 Celebration is a great way for families to celebrate and learn more about Africa while enjoying food, rides, and connecting with community.
Wakanda 5 Event Details
September 3rd from 11am-8:00pm
Traphagen School
72 Lexington Avenue
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
Register for your free tickets here.
