The 2022 Africa Fest took place at McPike Park Saturday. Dozens of African countries were represented during a festival of food, clothes, culture, and togetherness.
From the dancing, the music, the smells, and even an appearance from Governor Tony Evers, it was a day for celebration.
From the moment you walked in, you were immersed in the cultures of many African nations. Decked in festive garb, there were vendors selling clothes that you could only find in their native countries, and new foods to experience, even peanut butter chicken, which Assan Jarbos says, you can’t knock until you try.
“That’s what this event is all about. Some people, they’ve never tried this before, it’s their first time,” Jarbos said. “Seeing all of this, I mean, and the food is different, which makes it even better. You don’t see this every day, it’s not like McDonald’s where you can just go around the block and get some,”.
Governor Evers spoke briefly spoke on stage before spending an hour walking the event, meeting people, and taking pictures with attendees.
Each country in attendance paraded their flags as they were announced one by one, boasting dance moves, country pride, and fellowship.
A common theme at the event was a feeling of unity between those from different African countries, and attendees expanding their cultural horizons. People also repeated that only in a place as diverse as Madison could Africa Fest have the success that it did.
