Bradford African Festival of Arts returns with six-day celebration of creativity

July 16, 2026 by Bola Olajuwon

Bradford African Festival of Arts returns with six-day celebration of creativity

The Bradford African Festival of Arts (BAFA) will return from 3rd to 8th, August with its most ambitious programme to date, bringing together artists, performers, filmmakers, academics, entrepreneurs and communities for six days of creativity, cultural exchange and international collaboration across Bradford.

Made possible through investment from Arts Council England using public funding from the National Lottery, BAFA 2026 is inspired by this year’s theme, “Nkosoo” – meaning advancement and progress and presents a dynamic programme celebrating the richness, diversity and innovation of African arts and culture.

The festival starts on Monday, August 3 at the University of Bradford with an opening ceremony and a contemporary African Art Exhibition, featuring artists from diverse cultural backgrounds whose works explore the theme of advancement and progress through unique artistic perspectives.

On Tuesday 4 August, the programme begins at The Events Place with the Yorkshire Film Festival, celebrating independent filmmaking and providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their work, exchange ideas and engage with audiences. The programme then continues at the National Science and Media Museum with the African Film Festival, featuring a carefully curated selection of films from across Africa and the diaspora, highlighting the continent’s rich storytelling traditions, diverse voices and contemporary cinematic excellence.

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On Wednesday August 5, audiences will experience an evening of African theatre and live stage performances, showcasing powerful stories, dramatic performances and contemporary productions that celebrate Africa’s rich storytelling traditions.

The programme continues on Thursday, August 6 with the African Fashion and Pageantry Showcase, where designers, creatives and models will celebrate African textiles, craftsmanship, identity and contemporary fashion.

On Friday, August 7, the African Open Market Day will bring together businesses, artisans, entrepreneurs and food vendors, creating opportunities to discover African products, support local enterprises and experience authentic cuisine from across the continent.

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Bradford African Festival of Arts

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