Afrika Festival Stuttgart

Afrika Festival Stuttgart — since 2006 in Heslach

The Afrika Festival Stuttgart was founded in 2006 and is now the largest Africa festival in Baden-Württemberg. For years, the venue has been the Erwin-Schoettle-Platz in Heslach (Stuttgart-Süd) — a district with a vibrant multicultural scene and a tradition as a meeting point for the African community in Stuttgart. The 21st edition in 2026 lasts three days and mixes music, cuisine, workshops, children's program, and political-religious elements.

What to experience

The festival is more than just a series of concerts: Live acts from various African countries alternate on the main stage — from West African Highlife and Afrobeat to South African township sounds and North African Rai and Gnawa sounds. In addition, there are dance workshops where you can learn yourself — Afro dance, Sabar, Capoeira-Angola. The children's program includes drumming workshops, storytellers, and craft activities.

Readings, Films, Exhibitions

Parallel to the music program, there are readings by African and Afro-German authors, curated short film series from African cinema, and art exhibitions — contemporary painting, sculpture, and photography. The religious services, celebrated as part of the program in Heslach, bring an interreligious element — they underscore the character of encounter and community.

The Cuisine

Stalls with African cuisine from numerous countries line the square: West African Jollof Rice, Ethiopian Injera with various Wat sauces, Moroccan Tagine, South African Bobotie, Senegalese Mafé, Bissap, and Hibiscus juice. This is not tourist fusion food, but cooking by diaspora families and restaurateurs from the city.

Heslach — Stuttgart's liveliest district

Heslach is part of Stuttgart-Süd and is considered one of Stuttgart's most vibrant and culturally diverse districts. Bars, cafes, alternative cultural venues, and a strong network of associations characterize the area. Erwin-Schoettle-Platz is the ultimate outdoor space in summer — weekly markets are held here, celebrations take place, and the neighborhood meets here. The Afrika Festival therefore fits perfectly into this environment.