Not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes, they’re just articles you stumble upon on the internet, like this one. It’s wild to think that Afro Nation started just a few years ago, in 2019, and now it’s one of the most anticipated music festivals in the world. Born on the golden beaches of Portimão, Portugal, the idea was bold: a space where Afrobeats, Amapiano, hip-hop, dancehall, and Black diasporic music could be celebrated.
What started as a fairly massive gathering of music lovers quickly snowballed. It became a global pilgrimage for the culture. By the time the Ghana edition hit in December 2019, everyone was talking about it.
Afro Nation festivals happen in multiple countries today. Now, Afro Nation 2025 is on the horizon, and if you’re planning to go, here’s everything you need to know.
2019 - Portugal: The inaugural festival. A sold-out show with over 20,000 people on the beach of Portimão. Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid all headlined.
2019 - Ghana: The first African edition. Accra’s beaches turned into a musical haven for the diaspora returning home. Alkaline, Burna Boy, Shatta Wale, Wizkid, Davido and Stonebwoy.
2022 - Portugal returns: After COVID-19 paused the world, Afro Nation made a roaring comeback, bigger than before.
2023 - Expansion: Afro Nation hits Miami and Detroit, bringing African sounds to North American shores.
2024 - Global growth: More cities, more dates, and a bolder lineup with Amapiano taking equal spotlight alongside Afrobeats.
Afro Nation has grown from a one-off dream into a globe-trotting festival series. And the formula stays the same: sun, sand, and the sound of the diaspora.
When and where is Afro Nation 2025?
Dates: 9 –11 July 2025
Location: Praia da Rocha, Portimão, Portugal
This iconic beach spot is the heart of the festival. Think golden sand, ocean views, and music echoing across the waves from sunset till dawn.
Who’s performing?
The lineup for Afro Nation 2025 is packed with global icons and rising stars:
Burna Boy – The African Giant himself, bringing timeless energy and hits.
Davido – A fan favourite, known for crowd-pleasing anthems and endless charisma.
Mary J. Blige – Yes, the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul joins the stage, showing just how global Afro Nation has become.
Tems – Her soulful sound and global appeal are unmatched.
Plus dozens more from Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, and Hip-hop scenes.