It started spontaneously in 1989, with a performance by a dance group from Burkina Faso.

Thousands of people come and there are many stalls selling exotic food and merchandise.

The festival celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2013, thanks in part to the efforts of retired general practitioner and organizer Rob Lokin.

[2] It is supported by about 400 volunteers and is a major enterprise for a village of 500 residents.

As well as the main stage there is an African market with over a hundred stands, caterers with mostly African snacks and a side program of dance and music.