12 Facts You Need To Know About Ake Arts and Book Festival
Learn About Africa's Leading Literary Festival
Stage Performance by Tope Tedela at the 2019 edition of Ake Festival (2019) by Ake FestivalBook Buzz Foundation
Welcome to Ake Festival
The Ake Arts and Book Festival is a prominent annual cultural and literary event held in Nigeria. It is known for its celebration of African literature, art, culture, and creativity. It was established in 2013 by Nigerian writer and cultural activist, Lola Shoneyin.
1. Africa's Largest Literary Festival
Ake Festival is the largest in Africa, hosting authors, writers, artists, poets, thought leaders and free thinkers from across the world. It is a gathering that allows people from different countries and culture to meet and discuss Africa, enjoy art, books, poetry and music.
2. The Biggest Convergence of Creatives
Ake Arts and Book Festival has brought over 1000 writers, poets, musicians, actors, filmmakers, artists and thinkers together to celebrate creativity and diversity. Ake Festival attracts both African and international participants.
3. Moments of literary culture
Ake Festival is often held in November. It holds for a duration of 3- 4 days. Guests and attendees immerse themselves in culture and get to enjoy a wide range of literary activities.
4. Theme
Each year, Ake Arts and Book Festival delves specific themes relevant to African literature, society, culture and contemporary issues. These themes can vary from year to year, and they are explored in various sessions, sparking meaningful conversations.
5. Festival with the Most Diverse Program
The Festival features a diverse range of events, including book chats, panel discussions, art exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, music performances, book launches, poetry recital and more. These activities provide attendees with a rich cultural and intellectual experience
6. Embracing Art Enthusiasts
Ake Festival emphasizes inclusivity and encourages participation from people of all ages and backgrounds. It often features activities for young adults and adults making it a friendly event.
7. Bookstore and Booksigning
There's always a book store set up at the venue where guests and attendees can purchase books Attendees have the opportunity to purchase books and get them signed by the authors of their favourite fiction, non-fiction, poetry books, making it a haven for book lovers.
8. The Safest Space for Self Expression
Ake Festival creates a safe space for guests and attendees, both African and international participants, to express their thoughts and their ideal way to life and culture. The international dimension at Ake Festival fosters cross-cultural dialogue and the exchange of ideas.
9. Culture-centric Location
Ake Arts and Book Festival originally started in Abeokuta, it is even named after a town called Ake in Abeokuta. The Festival held in Abeokuta from 2013 - 2018, it then moved to Lagos in 2019. Ake introduces guests to the cultural and tourist centers in these locations.
10. Community Engagement
The festival often includes community outreach programs, encouraging a love of literature and the arts in local schools and communities. It also provides a platform for emerging writers to connect with established figures in the literary world.
11. Networking and Collaborations
Ake Festival is one of the biggest literary platform for networking and collaboration between artists, writers, publishers, and other creative professionals. It fosters a sense of community and it's perfect establishing connections within the African literary community.
12. Impact
The Ake Arts and Book Festival makes a significant impact on African literature and the cultural scene in Nigeria and beyond. It contributes to the growth of African publishing and the recognition of African voices in the global literary landscape.
Panel Discussion on Disrupting Culture at the 2017 edition of Ake Festival (2017) by Ake FestivalBook Buzz Foundation
Overall, Ake Arts and Book Festival is a vibrant and influential platform that celebrates African literature, culture, and creativity. It is a place for established and emerging artists and writers to connect, share, and explore the rich tapestry of African storytelling
