Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Bulawayo’s vibrant vintage scene burst into life last week as the Vintage Culture Association celebrated the first anniversary of the Vintage Culture Fest, an event dedicated to old-school music, classic fashion and cultural heritage.
The celebrations began with a colourful vintage parade from Bulawayo Centre before shifting to a local nightspot for an after-party that drew style enthusiasts, creatives and music lovers. The night featured performances by Msiz’kay, DJ Sweeto, Bhila and other local favourites, blending nostalgia with contemporary flair.
This year’s edition recorded a significant increase in attendance, with social media buzzing throughout the week as revellers shared their excitement and outfits.
Vintage Culture founder, Father K, said the festival was created to honour the timeless elegance and enduring appeal of vintage style.
“We wanted to create a unique event that brings people together and allows them to express their love for all things vintage,” he said.
He described the inaugural edition as a resounding success, noting the overwhelming support from the community and the growing interest in vintage culture across the city.
Encouraged by the strong turnout, the organisers are exploring ways to establish the festival as a permanent fixture on Bulawayo’s entertainment calendar. The movement’s motto, “Where Yesterday Meets Today: Celebrating heritage, inspiring creativity”, continues to guide its vision.
In an interview, Father K said vintage fashion and music play a crucial role in cultural preservation by showcasing past craftsmanship, tracing the evolution of style, influencing modern trends and creating space for cultural exchange.
“Vintage culture allows people to connect with their roots and express their identity,” he said.
He added that in the Zimbabwean context, the movement promotes cultural continuity by blending traditional elements with modern design, celebrating local artistes and creating platforms for storytelling.
Father K said the festival resonates strongly with young people by merging retro and contemporary aesthetics, featuring popular acts and tapping into modern creative trends.
“Young people experience something fresh, exciting and authentic that sets them apart from the mainstream,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Vintage Culture Association hopes to grow the event into a regional cultural flagship. Plans include creating opportunities for local designers and artists to collaborate with international creatives, access expert mentorship and contribute to Zimbabwe’s creative economy.
