African Food Festival on Plein
Ten chefs take over Plein with flavours from Africa and the diaspora. At this free family festival, enjoy food passed down through generations: from richly spiced Mozambican dishes to Cape Verdean treats.
African Food Festival (2026)
On 31 October and 1 November, Plein is all about food, connection and what people from the African diaspora bring with them, build and pass on.
Taste food from different cuisines, from Ghanaian street food by Ruth’s Chop Bar and Swahili dishes by East African Cuisine to Ethiopian injera by Gebeta Kitchen, Cape Verdean comfort food by Bafatada Foods and more.
All food served at the festival is halal, and vegetarian options are also available.
Bazaar, live music and workshops
Explore work and products by African makers in the bazaar and meet the people behind them. There will also be music, spoken word, lunchtime talks and workshops where you can listen, watch and take part.
Images: Houcem Bellakoud
Listen to the story of Zula and enjoy a Sudanese meal
Saturday 31 October, 12.00–1.15 p.m.
Lunch talk (Dutch) | Theater Noord, Fenix Plein
Deepen your visit with a lunch talk about the women behind the Eritrean independence movement, with writer Esther Terweij and Samuel Tekeste, founder of Nieuwlanders.
The talk includes a vegetarian Sudanese meal from Napata, the first Sudanese restaurant in the Netherlands. You can collect your meal from the kitchen on Fenix Plein before or after the conversation.
About the talk
Esther grew up without knowing the full story of her family. Years later, she discovered that her own background was connected to the Eritrean independence movement. In her historical debut novel Zula (2026), Esther links her personal search to the stories of Eritrean women who played a role in the movement. Together with Samuel, she discusses freedom, identity, the Eritrean diaspora and what it means to learn more about your roots later in life.
Zula (2026), Esther Terwij
About the partner
Stichting Unity in Diversity Rotterdam organises African Food Festival. The cultural platform creates space for art and talent from different communities and supports makers through festivals, exhibitions and talent development. In 2026, the foundation received the Doro Siepel Prize for its connecting and innovative contribution to Rotterdam’s cultural sector.
Fenix in Focus: Black Achievement Month
In October, Fenix is marking Black Achievement Month. This annual programme highlights the strength and significance of the African diaspora. In 2026, Fenix joins as a new Rotterdam venue.
