“World’s biggest afrobeats festival” set to attract thousands to Portimão’s Praia da Rocha
The fifth edition of Afro Nation, widely known as “the world’s biggest afrobeats festival,” is back in Praia da Rocha in Portimão this week with a star-studded lineup that promises to fill the beach with thousands of revellers.
Headliners include hip-hop soul legend Mary J. Blige, Afrobeats titan Burna Boy, rising Nigerian star Tems, French rapper Booba, and the American-Nigerian hitmaker Davido. More than 30 artists will perform across two stages during the three-day festival.
The opening day, July 9, will see Davido take the main stage alongside Tiakola, Gabzy, Qing Madi, and Rionsia.
On Thursday, July 10, Mary J. Blige will make her much-anticipated Portuguese debut. The multi-award-winning artist, with over 35 years in the industry, is expected to deliver one of the festival’s most powerful performances. Joining her on the main stage will be Tems, Franglish, Odeal, Amaarae, Naza, and June Freedom. The second stage on this day will showcase Uncle Waffles, Lee McKrazy and Scotts Maphuma, Felo Le Tee, Shakes & Les, and The Therapist.
The final night on Friday, July 11 will be headlined by Burna Boy, returning for his fourth Afro Nation appearance, having performed in 2019, 2022, and 2023. He’ll be joined on the main stage by Booba, Dexta Deps, Joé Dwèt Filé, and Innos’B. Over on the second stage, fans can dance to sets by Scorpion Kings, Young Stunna, Vigro Deep, Oskido, and Rosey Gold.
Afro Nation made its debut in 2019, attracting over 25,000 fans—many from the UK. Last year, that number grew to around 40,000. The festival skipped two years (2020 and 2021) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees must be 18 or older, and valid ID is required for entry.
Tickets cost €137 for single-day access and €349 for a three-day pass.
