As Summer 2023 finally comes to an end (despite the forecast suggesting otherwise), we reflect on the spectacular series of festivals that graced our beloved island. Afro Island played a central role in five major events throughout the season. Here’s a glimpse of what went down… PIONEER PLAYS The festival season kicked off in May with the iconic Pioneer Plays, curated by the renowned DJ Pioneer. This festival blended the best of House, Bashment, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and R&B—a relatively new sound for the locals in Malta, yet one that resonated deeply, finding its place within the local music scene, thanks......
Asake in Malta! Yes that's right DLT Malta 23 saw its closing night headlined by the one and only Asake! Here's a review from our media team Laura Chianese!...
What Went Down at the Reggae Brunch x Afro Island All White BBQ Brunch – We outside Malta !
To conclude the month of July with a bang, the last weekend in Malta got fiery, as the Afro Island x Reggae Brunch BBQ day party took place under the local sunny skies. The festival’s second edition on the rock, featured a 3-day weekend which closed on a high, thanks to the joint effort with Afro Island. For those still unaware, Reggae Brunch has placed itself as one of the biggest party brunch organisers in the UK, hosting hundreds of attendees monthly, across cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. This year’s edition in Malta featured an all-white secret garden party that welcomed attendees at the beautiful Treehaus venue at UNO, bringing infinite vibes and delicious chops to the guests.
Numerous DJs played the best afrobeats, dancehall, soca, amapiano, and reggae tunes back to back. Starting at 12, as people gathered under the palm trees and the tropical setting of the venue, the smell of jerk chicken mingled in the air. On the menu was a choice of delicious Jamaican / Guyanese dishes: mouth-watering veg curry, tantalizing grilled fish and jerk chicken accompanied by fragrant rice & peas, and a zesty salad. Those present at the Afro Island boat BBQ last summer, like myself, knew they could not miss out on the Caribbean delicacies made by Odessa’s, the only authentic Caribbean caterer based here in Malta. Those wise enough ensured to secure their tickets asap, for the rest, if you were not there for all that deliciousness, your taste buds missed out!
The lineup was composed of talent from both event organisers. Afro Island flew out DNA to headline their bill and brought their favourite local DJ residents Veloso, Dado, Shay Who, and DJ M Funky, with the latter two giving us an epic B2B set. Reggae Brunch showed the local crowd how things go down in the UK bringing DJs Dean EG and Suave, and the phenomenal MCs Sillky, A Star, and Tubby.
The crowd looking bright, in their all-white attire, made the gathering almost look like a Sunday congregation, but some of the dance moves displayed were far from holy. The place got heated figuratively and literally as the party advanced. Many gyals came prepared, equipped with their hand fans to stay cool on the dance floor. Despite the heat, the energy was ecstatic, people socialized, danced, dutty whined, bruk it down, Willie bounced, signaled the plane and all. The beautiful smiles seen in every corner were proof of the enthusiasm and the good vibes of the people.
Among the guests was also Saga, one of season 6’s Big Brother Naija housemates, coming all the way from Lagos. During his time on the island, he showed us his take on Adekunle Gold’s TikTok challenge for his latest single Ogaranya. The video, which made more than half a million views on Instagram, featured clips of local partygoers dancing and singing along to the lyrics of the new song.
Once again music proved to be the language we all speak, helping bring together people from the African diaspora, the Caribbean, and Europe. As someone who has seen the island grow as a place where African and Caribbean music is increasingly being celebrated thanks to the recent festivals, it makes me shed a tear of joy, as this community of partygoers is becoming like a family. This was certainly a milestone for Afro Island and also foreshadows a more eventful future for the local party scene and talent.  As usual, it is a pleasure to see the unity of people celebrating music and culture, so if you don’t want to miss out, make sure to be ready on the 12th of August, which brings another eventful day with Pitch Malta and Afro Island.
A SMALL ISLAND IN EUROPE CONTINUES TO KEEP MAKING WAVES IN THE AFRO SCENE!
As Afrobeats continues to dominate the global landscape, there is one small island in the Mediterranean that has quickly become the favoured destination for an ultimate summer getaway! We take a look at to why Malta has quickly become top of the bucket list for festival goers in 2023, especially within the Afro community.
Malta, an island strategically located between Europe and the North of Africa. Known for its stunning coastline, crystal clear waters, historical landmarks and unique locations has often been the destination of choice for party goers, travellers, and explorers alike!
With North Africa only a short distance away. This proximity has meant that Malta not only has historical connections and influences from Africa, but has now developed a unique and diverse culture with influences from all over currently residing on the island.
With 300 days of sunshine a year and average daily temperatures of 30°C from June to September. As temperatures continue to rise in the build up to summer, so does its popularity with those looking to tick all the boxes on their summer wish list.
As the pandemic becomes a thing of the past people are looking to make the most of their summer plans, and sitting at the top of the wish list for many is an overseas festival experience. With the current growth of Afrobeats worldwide Malta has now positioned itself as the “preferred destination for Afro-oriented festivals this summer”.
The country, which has always been popular in the house and techno scene, experienced 4 major Afro festivals on the island for the first time in 2022. Pitch, DLT, Reggae Brunch and Dream Weekender were all 3-day festivals that were a huge success, and look set to return again this year.
As a former British colony, EU member and English speaking country, it has quickly become a popular destination especially for tourists from the UK. An attractive prospect to British event organisers, who are looking to promote the perfect summer getaway. Thousands that flocked to the island last year took to social media to showcase the beauty that the island has to offer, and this without doubt putting Malta on the map!
In addition to its perfect location, Malta also offers some of the most unique clubbing experiences imaginable. Outdoor venues, rooftop bars, infinity pools and unique locations – it’s impossible not to be impressed by stunning backdrops as you party the weekend away with friends. This versatile island offers festivals the opportunity to enjoy a range of experiences during their stay. These range from pool parties, outdoor clubbing, jet skiing, boat trips, scuba diving and much much more.
Now that Summer of 2023 is around the corner and festival-goers are planning their trips, Malta is high on the list of destinations.
Alongside this the local scene has continued to flourish year on year, with 2022 undeniably being the most successful season to date. The community continues to grow month on month, and the Afro presence can strongly be felt on the island. With parties, food vendors, clothing brands, dance communities all joining forces – you can now find a variety of Afro based activities to enjoy in Malta.
With the following events and dates already confirmed, there is already an attractive list of dates to choose from for your trip to the island that is taking Afrobeats and Amapiano by storm!
When it comes to events, Afro Island continues lead the way for hosting monthly Afrobeats & Amapiano parties on the island. So if your looking for a getaway this year you can visit Malta pretty much any time of the year to experience a quality Afro event, soak in sunshine and escape from reality!
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