By Jonathan Gramling

While keeping the safety of the community in mind, the African Association of Madison proceeded to hold Africa Fest at McPike Park on August 21^st.

There was a pent-up desire to celebrate amongst the immigrants from approximately 30 African countries and the Greater Madison area. People came early and stayed late, many adorned in clothing from their native countries.

The four area elected officials who spent their childhoods in Africa were feted. And Governor Tony Evers walked through the crowd with many attendees taking their photos with him.

There were several food vendors selling African cuisine and a number of craft vendors were kept busy throughout the day.

The impact of the COVID pandemic meant that several local performers got their chance to perform before the African community for the first time and of course local crowd favorites Limanya Drum & Dance Ensemble, Atimevu and Tani Diakite & the Afro Funkstars carried the celebration to a close as people jammed the dance floor in celebration. And there was DJ Lyriks who kept the positive vibe going throughout the day.

In particular, 2021 Africa Fest was a family reunion of African and other people who had been kept apart far too long.