Sunday, 2nd August 2026, will go down in memory as one of Derby’s most vibrant celebrations of African and Caribbean culture, community, and cuisine, as the Afro-Naija & Caribbean Food Festival returned with its highly anticipated 2.0 edition at Markeaton Park — and delivered beyond expectations.
What was planned as an open-space cultural food experience quickly transformed into a massive, high-energy gathering. Operating as a free entry event with prior registration, people came in masses from across the UK to soak in the sun, walk round the vendors’ stalls, and celebrate the rich tapestries of diaspora heritage.
From the moment the grounds opened, the atmosphere was electric — kept alive all day by our dynamic hosts, MC Chulo and MC Boslynne, alongside DJ Sholley, who kept the crowd energised with incredible soundscapes.
A Celebration Beyond Food
This festival was not just about eating — it was about identity, heritage, and shared stories.
African and Caribbean food tells the story of resilience, migration, innovation, and generational wisdom. Every spice blend, slow-cooked sauce, and traditional recipe represented culture passed down through families and preserved through memory.
A diverse range of cuisines from across Africa and the Caribbean were proudly showcased, creating a melting pot of flavours that delighted attendees. The demand was so overwhelming that the majority of vendors were completely sold out before the day ended!
Jollof War Competition Results
The ultimate highlight of the day was the fierce, friendly rivalry of the famous Jollof War Competition. Countries went head-to-head for supreme bragging rights, and after intense judging and crowd reactions, the final standings were declared:
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1st Place: Nigeria 🇳🇬 (Champions!)
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2nd Place: Uganda 🇺🇬
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3rd Place: Ghana 🇬🇭
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4th Place: Ethiopia 🇪🇹
Raffle Draws & Exciting Giveaways
Adding to the day’s excitement were the thrilling raffle draws where lucky attendees took home fantastic prizes! A massive thank you to our giveaway sponsors for making these moments extra special:
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Buka Xp
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Baasko Foods
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Amen African Store
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Pak Foods
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Joakraft Photography
Distinguished Guests & Community Leaders
The 2.0 edition was honoured by the presence of key leaders and visionaries, including:
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The Directors of Community Action Derby
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Mr. Akindayo Akindolani, Founder of Tech Derby
- Pastor Joseph Origbo, Co-Founder of Tech Derby
- Dr. Ogechi Eze, A General Practitioner in Derby and Founder of Afro Medic Mentors
- Naija UK Connect
Their attendance reinforced the importance of African- and Caribbean-led community initiatives and the growing visibility of diaspora-driven cultural platforms within UK cities.
Powerful Sponsorship
The organising committee expressed deep gratitude to the main sponsor:
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LEMFI
Their generous sponsorship, belief, and support were instrumental in elevating this open-air festival into a seamless, high-impact community experience.
To Our Vendors: The Heart of the Festival
The festival would not exist without the hardworking food and drink vendors who:
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Cooked tirelessly to showcase authentic recipes
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Travelled long distances to feed the crowd
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Showed up with absolute excellence and consistency
Your commitment turned an open field at Markeaton Park into a thriving, living cultural marketplace.
Looking Ahead
The Afro-Naija & Caribbean Food Festival is more than an event — it is a movement to:
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Celebrate African and Caribbean culture
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Support Black-owned businesses and food entrepreneurs
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Build economic opportunities and community unity
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Preserve heritage for future generations
Thank you for making August 2, 2026, completely unforgettable.
Together, we are stronger.
Together, we thrive.
Together, we celebrate culture.
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