African art has seen a meteoric rise in global recognition, with its rich cultural narratives, innovative expressions, and diverse voices capturing the attention of collectors, curators, and enthusiasts worldwide. As we step into 2025, the continent’s art scene promises an array of world-class events that showcase its vibrant creativity. Here are the top 15 art events in Africa this year that you simply can’t miss.

1. 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair
- Dates: January 30 – February 2, 2025
- Location: Marrakech, Morocco
Returning to the enchanting city of Marrakech, the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair remains a cornerstone of African contemporary art. Featuring leading galleries and artists from across the continent and its diaspora, this event offers thought-provoking exhibitions, dynamic panel discussions, and stunning site-specific installations. Held at DaDa and La Mamounia, it’s a must-visit for anyone eager to explore Africa’s diverse artistic landscape.

2. Investec Cape Town Art Fair
- Dates: February 21 – 23, 2025
- Location: Cape Town, South Africa
As Africa’s largest international art fair, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair is a global cultural hub. Featuring over 100 exhibitors from established and emerging galleries, the event blends commerce with creativity. With its curated exhibitions, engaging talks, and performances, it’s the ideal platform to witness cutting-edge contemporary African art.

3. Artmiabo International Art Festival (AMIAF)
- Dates: April 27 – May 1, 2025 (Lagos); April 29 – May 1, 2025 (Abuja)
- Locations: Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria
Under the theme “Artconomy,” AMIAF delves into the economic opportunities within the arts. The festival bridges traditional art with emerging technologies like NFTs, creating a transformative platform for collaboration among artists, tech leaders, and investors. Featuring visual art, performances, and workshops, it’s a vibrant showcase of Nigeria’s artistic potential.

4. RMB Latitudes Art Fair
- Dates: May 23 – 25, 2025
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Set in the stunning Shepstone Gardens, the RMB Latitudes Art Fair offers a unique indoor-outdoor celebration of African art. Showcasing galleries and artists from across the continent, this fair is known for its curated exhibitions, engaging talks, and its picturesque setting of marble halls, secret gardens, and rooftop pavilions.

5. Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) Inaugural Exhibition
- Date: May 2025 (Exact date TBA)
- Location: Benin City, Nigeria
Marking a milestone for West African culture, the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) opens its doors in 2025. Designed by renowned architect David Adjaye, this museum celebrates the region’s rich heritage and contemporary artistry. The inaugural exhibition will highlight the intersection of tradition and modernity, making it a landmark event.

6. PANAFEST 2025
- Dates: July 25 – August 3, 2025
- Location: Accra, Ghana
PANAFEST, the Pan-African Festival of Arts and Culture, is a biennial celebration of African heritage and creativity. Under the theme “Reclaiming the African Family,” the festival features theatrical performances, art exhibitions, and music concerts. Key highlights include the solemn Emancipation Day ceremony and tours of historic sites like Cape Coast Castle.

7. Congo Biennale
- Dates: July 16 – August 30, 2025
- Location: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
The Congo Biennale returns with its bold exploration of socio-political themes through art. Featuring local and international artists, this biennial event transforms Kinshasa into a vibrant hub of creativity and critical engagement, making it a must-see for art lovers and cultural critics alike.

8. FNB Art Joburg
- Dates: September 5 – 7, 2025
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
FNB Art Joburg remains a premier platform for contemporary African art. The 2025 edition will feature curated exhibitions across seven specialized sections, blending curatorial expertise with commercial innovation. Its Open City initiative will extend the fair’s reach, activating hubs across Johannesburg with art, music, and cultural experiences.

9. Art D’Égypte: Forever Is Now
- Dates: October 30 – November 22, 2025
- Location: Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Art D’Égypte’s fifth edition, “Forever Is Now,” takes place against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Pyramids of Giza. This event intertwines ancient heritage with contemporary art, exploring the theme of immortality through innovative installations and sculptures. It’s a spectacular fusion of history and modernity.

10. ART X Lagos
- Dates: November 6 – 9, 2025
- Location: Lagos, Nigeria
West Africa’s leading international art fair, ART X Lagos, continues to push boundaries with its integration of visual arts, music, film, and design. Showcasing established and emerging artists, the event offers a holistic cultural experience, reflecting Nigeria’s dynamic creative scene.

11. Chale Wote Street Art Festival
- Dates: August 17 – 25, 2025
- Location: Accra, Ghana
Known for its vibrant street art, performances, and installations, Chale Wote transforms Accra’s streets into a kaleidoscope of color and creativity. This grassroots festival celebrates African urban culture and serves as a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent.

12. African Biennale of Photography
- Dates: November 20 – December 20, 2025
- Location: Bamako, Mali
Also known as Rencontres de Bamako, this biennale is the continent’s most prestigious event dedicated to photography. The 2025 edition will explore themes of identity, resilience, and innovation, featuring works from both established and emerging African photographers.

13. Biennale de Dakar (Dak’Art)
- Dates: May 30 – July 1, 2025
- Location: Dakar, Senegal
As one of Africa’s longest-running biennials, Dak’Art focuses on contemporary African art with global resonance. The 2025 edition will feature exhibitions in galleries, public spaces, and unconventional venues across Dakar, fostering dialogue between artists and audiences while celebrating the continent’s artistic dynamism.

14. Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)
- Dates: July 12 – 20, 2025
- Location: Zanzibar, Tanzania
While ZIFF is primarily a film festival, it also celebrates visual arts, music, and literature. The 2025 edition promises a vibrant lineup of African and international films, alongside art exhibitions and cultural events that highlight Zanzibar’s unique heritage and artistic contributions.

15. Afropunk Johannesburg
- Dates: December 30 – 31, 2025
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Afropunk is a global movement celebrating Black culture through music, art, and fashion. The Johannesburg edition features an eclectic mix of visual art exhibitions, live performances, and fashion showcases, creating a vibrant celebration of African creativity to close the year.
Conclusion
From Marrakech to Johannesburg, these events highlight the transformative power of African art and its growing influence on the global stage. Whether you’re a collector, curator, or cultural enthusiast, 2025 is brimming with opportunities to immerse yourself in the richness of African creativity. Don’t miss the chance to witness history in the making.
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