It’s officially Ke Dezemba, which brings about the desire to be outside taking in the good vibes. There’s a long list of events lined up each weekend and in between. This being especially true for Harare. Often it is hard to sift through the noise to find what’s actually worth it, so we’re here to help.
Here’s a list of the 10 events we’re most looking forward to in the capital:
SOKE
When: 6 December
Where: ZGS, 51 Lawson Avenue, Milton Park
Curated by Untamed Authority, a veteran on the events scene in Cape Town, SOKE is an immersion in the rhythmic beats, rich flavours, good company and fashion inspired by the diverse heritage of Africa. The daytime event promises an unforgettable experience! The event’s theme is “a touch of Africa.”
NAKAMARKET
When: 7 December
Where: Moto Republik, 3 Allan Wilson, Avenues
Nakamarket is a half-day market focused festival made for lovers of anime, manga, gaming, cosplay and Japanese pop-culture. Nakamarket places you at the centre of a market place with anime, nerd and all sorts of merch. With various food options and great activities to keep you busy throughout the day. The first ever Zimbabwe Manga and Comic Book award winners will be announced at the first Nakamarket this December.
ROOTS
When: 13 December
Where: Maize & Mingle Restaurant
Samuel Cosmic’s Roots is an electronic music event celebrating the very best of Afro house. The upcoming December edition will feature globally renowned names and acts from beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. The lineup has Kreative Nativez, Samuel Cosmic, Bhana, BamBam Madame, Jay, ANC, Lusi and Nitefreak.
DOEK & SLAY
When: 14 December
Where: Alex Sports Club
Now without a doubt the country’s biggest women only festival, Doek & Slay is a safe space that allows women to just let loose. It is “a space where ladies can arrive as strangers and leave as sisters, creating genuine bonds in a fun atmosphere.” This coming December edition is set to be the event’s biggest edition yet.
DZOKA FESTIVAL
When: 18 December
Where: Thornpark Polo Club
This is Zimbabwe’s ultimate homecoming celebration — a day where music, culture, and community come together in one unforgettable experience. A beacon for the diaspora to return home and enjoy the end of the year in a place that welcomes them like no other. The inaugaral edition will be headlined by Jazzwrld, Thukuthela, GL Ceejay, Nkosazana Daughter, Darkoo, DJ Maphorisa, Mas Musiq, Voltz JT and Saintfloew.
STATE OF THE NATION TOUR
When: 20 December
Where: Celebration Centre
King Kandoro’s State Of The Nation will see him decoding the year’s biggest events and non events in a way only he knows how to. The Celebration Centre event will be the final show in a 4 leg tour. He will be supported by the New School Comedy Club alumni and African continental comedy heavyweights Hillary Okello from Uganda and Vafa Naraghi from South Africa at the Victory Theatre in Johannesburg.
UNPLUGGED
When: 21 December
Where: First Capital Bank Sports Club
After a one year hiatus, the Unplugged Music Festival is set to return with a nostalgia filled experience. It is one of Harare’s longest running live music events and this December it wil be headlined by Liquideep, Saintfloew, Sylent Nqo, Delroy Shewe and Sane Wav.
CARPE DIEM
When: 22 December
Where: Old Hararians Sports Club
Ngoma Nehosho’s one-of-a-kind DJ festival dedicated to Afro house, will be returning for it’s third edition this December. Set to headline the event will be gqom and 3-step aficionado Dlala Thukzin, Afro house heavyweight Mörda, hypnotic producer and DJ Sun-El Musician, and the multi talented Lamiez Holworthy. Adding to the lineup will be the US based Zimbabwean DJ Bantu, who recently received a Grammy nod, and the talented Reverb7.
FABRIK PARTY: A DAY IN DECEMBER
When: 27 December
Where: Mara Mara Restaurant
The Skeyi & Strobo Fabrik Party will be hosting a special edition this coming December, titled ‘A Day in December.’ As what has become expected the showcase will combine both fashion and music, while also showcasing artists and photographers that have collaborated with the Skeyi & Strobo collective throughout the year
ONE BIG PARTY
When: 31 December
Where: Hockey Stadium
Chipaz Promotions is closing out the year with a concert for the ages. Winky D and Jah Prayzah are going to share the stage at the Hockey Stadium, and the crowd shall bring in the New Year with two of the greatest musicians and performers the country has ever seen.
What are you looking forward to this December?
