The 2024 Banana Island Multicultural Festival, organized by the Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association Lagos (BIPORAL), took place last Saturday amidst rainy weather but with unwavering excitement and enthusiasm. The festival kicked off around 12 PM at the Banana Island Children’s Playground in Ikoyi, Lagos, featuring participating countries like Zimbabwe, Korea, Indonesia, the Philippines, Ghana, India, Jamaica, Pakistan, Cote D’Ivoire, and South Africa.
Attendees enjoyed an array of delicious cuisines prepared using traditional recipes, with the Korean stand attracting particularly long lines as guests eagerly lined up to sample favorites like ramyun and kimchi. The festival, themed “Tour the World,” was a vibrant showcase of cultural diversity, complete with food tasting, native wear gifting, and various entertainment activities.
The day was filled with cultural dances, comedy, games, and a carnival parade, creating a festive atmosphere that delighted culture and entertainment lovers. The event included exciting activities such as music performances, a business fair, and a Miss Carnival contest, with each participating country showcasing its unique heritage through performances.
The energy peaked when South Korea took the stage, with the crowd erupting in cheers for the K-Pop dance group Femmevoice, who won the 2024 K-Pop 2nd place and Popularity prize. Initially, the all-female dance group faced challenges with the slow rhythm of the music but quickly found their groove when the upbeat K-Pop tunes filled the venue.
The previous year’s guests, the all-boys break-dance crew I O.F from Korea, left a lasting impression with their energetic performances. The Director of the Korean Cultural Centre, Kim Chan-Ki, expressed regret that budget constraints prevented their return this year but emphasized the center’s commitment to promoting Korean culture in Nigeria.
As the festival concluded, the rich tapestry of global cultures was celebrated, reinforcing the festival’s importance in fostering community and cultural exchange among diverse populations. The anticipation for next year’s event is already building, as attendees look forward to even more exhilarating performances and cultural experiences.