AFREKETE 2026
EVENTS PROGRAM
29th - 31st MAY 2026
Our main event starts on Magnetic island for Friday's Welcome Ceremony 3.30pm, Community Night Markets & Welcome Party. Then our Hot Havana Nights event with Live Cuban Band Saturday night, PLUS all weekend with dance and drumming workshops, culminating with our Intercultural Roots of Rhythm Sunday with cultural performances & interactive sessions.
Journey through the history and roots of Cuban Culture, Dance and Music in the tropics of North Queensland!
We are extra excited to bring back our Afrekete Island Edition in 2026, with some extra instalments the week leading up to the main weekend event.
The main events plus main accommodation will take place at Amaroo on Mandalay in Nelly Bay.
Full Weekend Event Passes PLUS Day Passes, Party-only Passes, Workshop Taster Passes available NOW!
If Accommodation all sold out at Amaroo and you need help securing alternative accommodation please email us on afreketeaustralia@gmail.com or check out Best of Magnetic for some fantastic options for all budgets.
Amaroo contact details :
T: +61 7 4778 5200
E: frontdesk@amarooonmandalay.com.au
GENERAL EVENT PROGRAM (subject to change)
For Detailed Timetable Click HERE
TUESDAY 26th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
Evening program TBA
WEDNESDAY 27th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
Evening program TBA
THURSDAY 28th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
Evening program TBA
FRIDAY 29th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
1pm Weekend Registrations Open
3.30pm Official Opening Ceremony at Nelly Bay Esplanade – ALL Welcome
5pm Community Night Markets – Artisan Stalls, Cuban Food available to purchase
8pm Welcome to Cuba on Maggie with Intro by all artists
SATURDAY 30th MAY
9.30am Registrations Open
9.30am-5pm Workshops (Timetable here)
7.30pm HOT Havana Night Party with Live Cuban Band Kekoson & the Cuban Sound
(Dinner available to purchase from 6.30pm)
SUNDAY 31st MAY
9.30am Registrations Open
9.30am-5pm Workshops (Timetable here)
5pm-7pm Intercultural Rhythm & Roots Showcase & Interactive experiences
7pm Closing Ceremony
(Dinner available to purchase from 7pm)