Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AFTER a cold and quiet winter marked by sparse events, Bulawayo is finally warming up, not just in temperature, but in energy. The long wait for vibrant outdoor gatherings, live music and food festivals is over, as summer returns with a renewed promise of excitement.
With rising demand for live events, August is set to energise the city’s social scene. A host of events, ranging from music and fashion to food and culture, are ready to ignite the season, offering something for everyone looking to shake off the winter lull.
Kicking things off today is the Moving Jazz Café, an experience that will feature performances from South Africa-based Louis Mhlanga, Vuyo Brown, Hudson Simbarashe and Gog’Bekezela at Kings Kraal.
The festivities continue with the 6th Wave of the Unlock Party, set for tomorrow in Lobengula. Spearheaded by musician Diliza, the event is more than just a party; it is a platform for underground talent, particularly from high-density suburbs. It offers a chance to experience raw, authentic music while uplifting home-grown artistes.
The following day, August 10, brings the return of a fan favourite: the Garden of House. This high-energy event has become a staple in the city, known for its top-tier house music, local fashion showcases, and vibrant street food stalls. The event will be headlined by South African DJ Tease.
Amapiano lovers may want to brace themselves, as for the first time ever, South African Amapiano sensation Kelvin Momo will perform in Bulawayo. Riding high off his acclaimed Red Bull Symphonic appearance and his most-streamed album to date, Momo will perform in the city on Monday, alongside fellow SA artiste, DJ Tease and top local DJs.
On the same day, ZKS Spinners Arena will be the place to be as they will be hosting a family fun show at the arena headlined by the award-winning Tshibilika group, Insimbi ZeZhwane. Motorsport enthusiasts will witness car dragging and spinning by AK 47, Mac D, Amakhosi, The Rock and King Fly.
On August 14, locals are in for a rare treat as Carmen Music presents a show at the Bulawayo Theatre, headlined by Carmen, Iyasa, Dereck Mpofu and legendary musician, Busi Ncube.
Later in the month, the I Wear My Culture ZW Fashion Weekend will run from August 28 to 30. The weekend will feature a fashion gala, as well as panel discussions on the business of fashion, the art of archiving through film and art and the transformative power of research in creative expression.
But this is just the beginning. Local venues and promoters are gradually unveiling their summer line-ups. So, people may expect picnic parties, fashion pop-ups, night concerts, comedy shows and food markets to fill the weekends ahead. After a season of hibernation, the entertainment scene is ready for a full reset, and the city is more than prepared to receive it.
