Kwaku Summer Festival is one of the best outdoor festivals in Amsterdam and takes place annually in Nelson Mandela Park during late July and early August. Locals and visitors enjoy four weekends of live music and great food.
What is the Kwaku Summer Festival?
The Kwaku Summer Festival was first started back in 1975 and was originally a Surinamese celebration. It has taken place almost every year since then, growing into a fun, multi-cultural event that takes place over four, lively weekends in July and August. It attracts thousands of visitors and is enjoyed by all generations.
What happens at this Amsterdam Festival?
Four stage areas are set up in Nelson Mandela Park for the event which showcases live music of many different genres. On Friday evenings, international bands and well-known artists appear to really get the weekend off to a great start. Festival goers can dance to their favourite songs, meet up with friends, or just sit on the grass and listen to amazing music. There is also Pink Sunday which is dedicated to the LGBT and open-minded people of Amsterdam and unofficially kick-starts Pride week in the city.
Eating and drinking at the Kwaku Festival
As well as incredible live shows, there are food stands, kiosks and dining areas offering Surinamese, Caribbean, African, Creole and lots of other dishes at the festival. Try a sample of cuisine you’ve never tasted before or tuck into your favourite food at this event. A choice of beer tents and drink stalls offer beverages of every kind from local ale to iced cocktails.
Good-to-know facts about Kwaku
- There is a fee to enter the festival area with discounts available on some days to anyone with a City Pass.
- It’s easily available accessible with a private taxi.
- You can’t take your own food and drink into the festival, but there’s an incredible choice of wonderful things to buy once you are inside.
- It’s best to get to Nelson Mandela Park on public transport during the festival as parking is very limited. There is wheelchair friendly access available.
