Cotonou’s Amazon Esplanade is once again pulsating with rhythm, colour, and celebration as the third edition of “Sing and Dance with the Amazon” officially kicked off on August 5, 2025.
The month-long cultural event, spearheaded by the Beninese government and organised by the Arts and Culture Development Agency (ADAC), is set to run until September 7, offering residents and visitors a vibrant immersion into Benin’s artistic soul.
Open to the public with free entry, the initiative transforms the vast Amazon Esplanade into a dynamic open-air venue — a festive meeting ground where community spirit thrives and Benin’s cultural richness takes centre stage.
The event, launched in recent years, has grown into a staple of the nation’s holiday calendar, extending the joyful ambiance of national celebrations with a rich programme of music, dance, and live performance.
The 2025 edition opened with an energetic performance by the Africa Spirit group, setting a jubilant tone for the weeks to come.
On August 6, audiences were treated to a triple performance from Snake Zobel, Les Princesses de la Danse, and Les Ballets du Larred.
The rhythm intensified on August 7, as the Afro-Caribbean sounds of the Africa Salsa Orchestra swept the esplanade, leading into a weekend lineup that includes Challenge Team, Orchestre Mon Rêve, and Orchestre des Aveugles.
The celebration is not limited to the stage. From 6 p.m. daily, the esplanade welcomes families, friends, and tourists into a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Visitors gather for picnics, group dancing, and shared cultural experiences, reinforcing a sense of unity and national pride.
“Sing and Dance with the Amazon” has become a flagship cultural event during Benin’s summer holidays, showcasing local talent and revitalising interest in the country’s artistic traditions. Through initiatives like this, the ADAC continues to promote Beninese heritage and strengthen Cotonou’s reputation as a hub of cultural dynamism.
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