ToGo Art Festival

ToGo Art Festival: The Colors of Togo in Arcueil

Founded in 2025 by the association Act'Dem and its artistic director Yaotse Bakou, the ToGo Art Festival is the first major Togolese and West African cultural event in the Val-de-Marne. Based in Arcueil, a cosmopolitan town in the southern suburbs of Paris, the festival aims to be a vibrant bridge between Togolese and French cultures, a celebration of diversity, and a space for discovery for audiences from all walks of life.

An Iconic First Edition

On April 12, 2025, the first edition of the ToGo Art Festival took over 15 Avenue Paul Doumer in Arcueil for a day of festivities from 12 PM to 11 PM. The theme of this inauguration was: "The Colors of Togo, a Journey to the Heart of Togolese Culture." Togolese musician Amen Viana, the patron of the edition, embodied the spirit of the festival by blending traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds in a colorful concert. His presence lent a special radiance to this inaugural event.

A Multidisciplinary and Immersive Program

The richness of Togolese and West African culture was showcased through a carefully designed multidisciplinary program. Exhibitions featured Togolese visual arts (paintings, sculptures, photographs), while dance performances presented traditional choreographies from various Togolese ethnic groups. Storytelling sessions transported young and old into the world of West African oral legends and traditions. Participatory workshops (percussion, crafts, cooking) allowed visitors to immerse themselves actively in Togolese culture. In the evening, Afrobeat, coupé-décalé, and Afropop concerts and DJ sets kept the party going until nightfall.

The Afro Market and Togolese Gastronomy

The ToGo Art Festival would not be complete without its dedicated space for crafts and gastronomy. An Afro market brought together Togolese and West African artisans and creators, offering textiles (kente, wax print), jewelry, sculptures, decorative objects, and natural cosmetic products. Togolese cuisine—fufu, corn paste, peanut sauce, grilled meat skewers, and exotic fruit juices—delighted the taste buds of festival-goers. This gastronomic aspect is an essential component of the festival''s identity, aiming to celebrate Togolese culture in all its dimensions.

A Community and Inclusive Initiative

Beyond being a cultural showcase, the ToGo Art Festival is a deeply inclusive community project. The Act'Dem association advocates for the visibility of African cultures in France and for intercultural dialogue within French society. By establishing this festival in Arcueil, a city with a high degree of cultural diversity, the organizers aim to create a space for meeting and dialogue between Togolese, African, and French communities of all origins, in a spirit of fraternity and sharing.