The Bradford African Festival of Art, BAFA 2026 has kick-started with an opening ceremony showcasing keynote addresses and art exhibitions by various international artists with music and dance performances.

In his welcome address at the opening ceremony held at the University of Bradford, BAFA 2026 Festival Director, Dr. Olushola Kolawole assures that throughout the festival Bradford will come alive with colours, sounds, flavours and stories of Africa as this year’s festival will celebrate progress in many forms.

While appreciating everyone who had contributed in making BAFA 2026 a reality, Dr. Olushola enjoined every participant either as first timer or returning as part of growing BAFA family to immerse themselves in every moment, meet new people, support creativity, enjoy verious performances, discover new flavours and celebrate the beauty of shared humanity.

Also speaking at BAFAS 2026 opening ceremony were the Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Chris Herd and Chair Advisory and Board Member Bradford African Festival of Art Professor Udy Archibong.

Professor Archibong noted that education does not happen only in lecture theatre, seminar rooms and laboratories it also happens through culture, through creativity, through dialogue and through the sharing of stories across communities, generations and nations which makes BAFA 2026 matters.

She stated that in an increasingly interconnected world, there as never being a greater way for safety than bringing people together, foster understanding and build lasting relationship across country of the world and BAFA is one such space.

She cited that three years ago BAFA began with a simple but powerful vision to celebrate Africa, art, culture and heritage as well as innovation while creating opportunities for people to thrive, learn and collaborate.

She confirmed that she sees BAFA as a powerful example of great people in action celebrating diversity, encouraging dialogue and creating connection.

The opening ceremony witnessed an elaborate art exhibition and performances from participants across the countries as well as exhibition of artifacts.

Workshop and entertainment will hold on the 5th of August, 2026 by 4pm. Venue is the Darley market, Bradford.

On the 6th of August, 2026 the festival will feature theatre and stage play at Bradford Art centre, Bradford by 4pm.

African open market day is scheduled for 7th of August 2026 by 9am at the centenery square/ City Park, Bradford followed by African open market and outdoor festival on the 8th of August, 2026 by 9am at the same venue.

BAFA 2026 will be rounded off on the 9th of August 2026 with festival award night to be held at the event place, Bradford by 5pm.

This year’s festival will also be featuring live art exhibition and workshops, music, dance and performance, African fashion and textile showcases, African food and cooking Demos as well as family and community engagement activities.

For more enquiry, call +44778 259204 or +447352 396308. You can also send an email to info@bradfordafricanfestival.com.