Lake of stars will be Happening from 17th 19th of October,2025. The Lake of Stars Malawi Arts Festival has long stood as a vibrant celebration of Malawian identity and global creativity. In 2024, it made a powerful return on its 20th anniversary, coinciding with Malawi’s 60 years of independence. Held at the breathtaking Fish Eagle Bay Lodge in Nkhotakota, the festival brought together an eclectic mix of local and international artists, reaffirming its place as a cultural cornerstone in the region.
Now under the leadership of D.O.P.E—the creative team behind iconic platforms like the Malawi Arts Festival—Lake of Stars has entered a bold new era. D.O.P.E has infused the festival with fresh energy and a strong focus on cultural authenticity, taking it back to its roots while elevating it to new global heights.
This year’s festival promises to deliver an immersive arts experience, taking audiences on a captivating journey into the world of Malawian folklore music and dance, showcasing homemade instruments and compelling storytelling lyrics. The performances are designed to evoke nostalgia and transport listeners to the heart of Malawi’s vibrant traditions.
Beyond the stage, the 2025 edition will feature masterclasses and interactive workshops, offering participants hands-on experiences with Malawian folklore, traditional instruments, and other cultural art forms. These activities are part of a broader mission to preserve and pass down Malawi’s rich heritage.
Traditional folklore and handcrafted instruments aren’t unique to Malawi—they’re part of a shared global tradition. This year’s lineup celebrates this unity, blending Malawian cultural expressions, rock steady, and mainstream international performances that highlight the creative threads connecting cultures across the world.
Are you ready for the magic?
Under the creative direction of D.O.P.E, Lake of Stars 2025 invites you to celebrate triumphs, connect cultures, and experience the rhythm and soul of Malawi like never before.