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
6.30pm Son & Rueda with Christina
WEDNESDAY 27th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
Sunset Yemaya Ocean Ritual with Christina
THURSDAY 28th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
6.30pm Ready to Rumba at Flinders Lane TOWNSVILLE
*This is NOT a free event it is a fundraiser for our festival*
*$40 prepaid includes Live Rumba Cubana activation and a feature from live band Kekoson
FRIDAY 29th MAY
9am-1pm Free time to explore Maggie
3.30pm Official Opening Ceremony at Nelly Bay Esplanade – ALL Welcome – Free to community
4.30pm Weekend Registrations Open
4.30pm Community Night Markets – Artisan Stalls, Cuban Food available to purchase
6pm-7pm Dinner – catering at Amaroo restaurant (pre-order and purchase required)
7.30pm Welcome to Cuba on Maggie – with Intro by all artists
8:30pm – late Social Dance Party
SATURDAY 30th MAY
9.15am Registrations Open
9.30am-5pm Workshops (Timetable here)
6:30pm Dinner – catering at Amaroo restaurant (pre-order and purchase required)
7:30pm-8:30pm Bailes Populares 2 – From Nengon to Son
8:30pm – late Tropical-themed HOT Havana Night – Social Dance Party with live band
SUNDAY 31st MAY
9.16am Registrations Open
9.30am-5pm Workshops (Timetable here)
5pm Intercultural Rhythm & Roots Showcase (our Grand Finale event with invited guests and our artists in one melting pot of colour and rhythm)
7pm Closing Ceremony
7pm-8pm Dinner – catering at Amaroo restaurant (pre-order and purchase required)
