Memorial Day weekend officially kicks of the start of summer…yay! There will be a mass exodus to the beaches, and plenty of grilling. It is also the start of the Dance Africa festival at the Brooklyn Academy of Music: A cultural celebration of dance in Africa and its diaspora.

It is the nation’s first festival devoted to African Dance, and one of the largest in the United States. This year is a special anniversary, celebrating 35 years, with special performances and appearances by Dance Africa’s creator and founder, Chuck Davis.

In addition to all of the special performances, the streets outside of BAM will be transformed into a colorful outdoor bazaar. Over 300 vendors from all over the world will descend upon Brooklyn with their creative wares for sale. Ethnic jewelry, artwork, musical instruments, tubs of shea butter….you name it. There will also be plenty of food stands dishing up fabulous African, Caribbean, and African-American food.

The outdoor bazaar will be located along Ashland Place, between Hanson Place and Fulton Street.
Sat, May 26, 12noon—10pm Sun, May 27, 12noon—8pm Mon, May 28, 12noon—8pm.

-Nordea
nordeasoaperie