Each year, the Ndaje Festival proudly hosts the largest West African dance and drum gathering in Massachusetts, uniting renowned artists from across the African Diaspora—both in the U.S. and abroad. This vibrant three-day celebration offers a powerful immersion into the rich rhythms, movements, and traditions of West African culture. Whether you're a seasoned dancer, a passionate drummer, or simply looking to experience the spirit and energy of the Diaspora, the Ndaje Festival is a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate in community.
Location: The Dance Complex - 536 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, Massachusetts
2025 Festival Artist (DANCE):
Mariama Basse, Malang Bayo, Joh Camara, Tacko Cissokho, Youssouf Koumbassa, Ismael Kouyate, Dioncounda N'Diaye, Pape Moussa Sonko and Abdou BayeFall Sylla
2025 Festival Artist (DRUM):
Pape Cisse, Sory Diabate, Thiokho Diagne, Abdoulaye Diop, Nko Fallou, Brigo Gueye, Aly Guisse, Ibou N'Diaye, Mamadou Linx N'Diaye, Tapha N'Diaye, Sidate Ngom, Moussa Traore, our local Boston drummers, and more!
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2025 | ||
3pm - 4:30pm | Tacko Cissokho | Kutiro Dance |
4:30pm - 6pm | Ismael Kouyate | Djembe Dance |
6pm - 7:30pm | Malang Bayo | Bougarabou Dance |
7:30pm - 9pm | Abdou Bayefall Sylla | Serer Dance |
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2025 | ||
10:30AM - 12PM | Pape Moussa Sonko | Sabar Dance |
12pm - 1:30pm | Tacko Cissokho | Djembe Dance |
1:30pm - 3pm | Malang Bayo | Kutiro Dance |
3pm- 4:30pm | Pape NDiaye | Sabar Dance |
4:30pm - 6pm | Dioncounda Ndiaye | Djembe Dance |
4:30pm - 6pm | Brigo Gueye | Sabar DRUM |
6pm - 7:30pm | Mariama Basse | Sabar Dance |
7:30pm - 9pm | Youssouf Koumbassa | Djembe Dance |
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2025 | ||
10:30am - 12pm | Youssouf Koumbassa | Djembe Dance |
12pm - 1:30pm | Abdou Bayefall Sylla | Sabar Dance |
1:30pm - 3pm | Mariama Basse | Kutiro Dance |
3pm - 4:30pm | Joh Camara | Djembe Dance |
3pm - 4:30pm | Tapha N'Diaye | Sabar DRUM |
4:30pm - 6pm | Ismael Kouyate | Djembe Dance |
6pm - 7:30pm | Pape Moussa Sonko | Sabar Dance |
*Festival artist/instructors are subject to change |