It has been a summer of fun in the capital, and it’s ending with a bang, a strum, a drum and some beats as CubaDupa hits town.

CubaDupa transforming the area into a concrete playground of stages, street feasts and festival spaces, providing fun and entertainment for everyone.

Wellington’s most iconic, creative, and diverse arts festival will showcase music, dance, theatre, kai and colour from over 1200 artists from around the motu.

The two-day festival is a platform for performers from all genres including Māorioke encouraging everyone to sing in Te Reo Māori or blend Te Reo Māori into their favourite songs, funk/soul/rock favourites OdESSA, award-winning metal band Shepherds Reign, and the sounds of ska from Battleska Galactica.

There’ll also be DJs, the always popular Shut Up & Dance and Solid Gold Dance Crew, Colossal’s Dream Garden aerial and projection circus display, the energetic sounds of Batucada, and Te Aro Eats are back with their collaborative and interactive dining experience.

History

CubaDupa is a revival of the Cuba Street Carnival, which was created and run by Martin Wilson through the 1980-90s

Two additional privately run carnivals were staged in 1991 and 1993.  Chris Morley Hall re-launched the carnival from 1998–2009

CubaDupa was founded in 2015, from a vision between the newly formed non-profit Creative Capital Arts Trust, and the Wellington City Council

CubaDupa Spotify Playlist. 

As it’s going to be another big weekend in town it’s important to stay safe and look after your mates. Take 10 will be in two spots, its usual Courtenay/Taranaki Street site, and the pop-up indoor venue at 47 Courtenay Place, both offering water, lollies and support to anyone who needs it. You can drop in, charge your phone, play some games and chill for a bit – they’re there to make sure everyone is staying safe while having a good time in tow.