rssSep 22, 2026, 15:55

City council: Kwaku is intangible heritage, confident it will return in a new format

Amsterdam city officials are working to revive the Kwaku Summer Festival in a new, sustainable format after the organization ended the event in its current form earlier this year. The council recognizes the festival as intangible cultural heritage and is currently in discussions to ensure its future in the Nelson Mandelapark.

Amsterdam city aldermen Elise Moeskops and Araya Sumter have expressed optimism regarding the future of the Kwaku Summer Festival, which is officially recognized as intangible heritage. Following the festival organization's announcement in July that the event would cease in its current format due to rising costs and stringent permit requirements, local authorities have begun discussions to explore a new, sustainable model. The festival, traditionally held in the Nelson Mandelapark in the Zuidoost district, is considered a vital cultural event, and the city is actively working with stakeholders to ensure its continuity.

While the city remains committed to preserving the festival, it remains uncertain whether the original organizers will lead the transition or if a new organization will take over. The council has noted that while subsidies are available for the event, the specific allocation for a future version remains to be determined. The city is currently assessing its role in the previous cancellation while focusing on building a future-proof plan that maintains broad community support.

Politics Culture Amsterdam

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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