On May 25, this Saturday, the Cavan Cross Cultural Community will celebrate Africa Day with a rainbow of events. Celebrated for the previous 61 years, Africa Day honors the groundwork laid in 1963 for the Organization of African Unity. This celebration, which brings together many communities to recognize African history and culture, has become a regular feature in Cavan County for the past four years.
Event Highlights
Starting at 9 a.m. with a soccer tournament, the celebration this year will take place at the Cavan Rugby Club. Twelve teams will square off furiously on the field to culminate in a championship match scheduled for around one p.m..
The main event, starting at 2 p.m., consists of a variety of cultural events:
- Food and Refreshments: Traditionally a big draw, attendees can taste traditional African cuisine.
- Prominent members of the community will present medals and provide their thoughts as guest speakers.
- Anticipated are vibrant cultural dances, international group singing, and an African Day cake.
- Interactive Activities: face painting, experimenting with traditional attire, hairdressing displays with hair braiding instructions, and more.
- After 6 p.m., the party moves indoors for dancing, singing, and mingling. The bar will be open and provide a laid-back environment where guests may mix and enjoy.
Chairperson of the Cavan Cross Cultural Community, Stanley Nwaneri, stresses the inclusive character of the event. “It’s all free; everyone can come in,” he continues, urging anyone to participate at any moment throughout the day.
Involvement in Communities
The growing popularity of the event indicates its success in encouraging communal spirit. Four years ago, the first festival drew 600 people, mostly from the migrant population. Later events attracted more local inhabitants, therefore underscoring the function of the event in bridging cultural differences.
“The second and third ones were huge; everyone came in from the local community,” Stanley says. People wishing to sample real African cuisine have found great attraction in the variety of dining options. “They all came; they really enjoyed it,” Stanley says, stressing the good welcome of the community.
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Developing Strong Community Relationships
The Cavan Cross Cultural Community values its robust, inclusive community group highly. Previous years’ feedback has been incredibly good, and many people are looking forward the next event. “I missed it, I saw all of your pictures on Facebook, I can’t wait until the next time,” Stanley says, capturing the event’s mounting expectation.
The party this year looks to be especially unforgettable. Running from 9 a.m. till midnight, the event presents lots of chances for entertainment, education, and socializing among people. Stanley says everyone had fun and invites everyone to come celebrate Africa Day. Cavan boasts a very robust community group.
Put this on your calendars and come Saturday to the Cavan Cross Cultural Community at Cavan Rugby Club for a day full of happiness, diversity, and unity.
