Newsroom
Nicosia is about to get a whole lot hotter, and we don’t just mean the weather. One of Cyprus’ most beloved summer festivals, AfroBanana, is turning a fresh page this June. With a new name, new energy, and a brand-new home in the heart of the capital, Alternative Brains Rule Festival (ABR) is setting up camp at the Nicosia Municipal Theater and Gardens from June 19–22, and trust us, you don’t want to miss this.
After 10 unforgettable years of AfroBanana magic, ABR is keeping the spirit alive with the same blend of infectious music, eclectic art, and feel-good summer vibes, just with a more urban twist.
Four days of sound, soul & surprises
This year’s theme is "1984–NOW," a nod to the roots and future of Cyprus’ electronic music scene. Over three nights, five leading collectives—including Honest Electronics, Barking Cats Radio and Sousami—will take over the Nicosia Municipal Theater with genre-spanning DJ sets, live performances, and visual showcases. Expect everything from pioneers like Evagoras Karagiorgis to rising stars like Kasska and La Rod’s.
And if you’re more into live bands and outdoor stages? Head to the Municipal Gardens on Friday and Saturday, where a lineup of global talent will light up the night.
Highlights include:
- BCUC from South Africa—WOMEX Artist Award winners bringing soul-shaking energy
- Spherical Cow, Cyprus’ own unpredictable sonic explorers
- Zelzeleh and Nama Dama, blending folk, electronic and ancient sounds
- The wild, brass-fueled chaos of Amsterdam’s Brass Rave Unit
- Tatadana, Rumba Attack, and Luzmira Zerpa with her 10-piece band Drymbago
More than just music
ABR isn’t just about what you hear; it’s about what you feel. The festival’s Common Ground program transforms the Gardens into a living art space, featuring interactive installations, moving sculptures, and dreamy sensory walks.
Don’t miss:
- A juice-making sculpture tribute to the Famagusta Orange Festival
- Glass artworks from recycled river finds
- A one-of-a-kind bridge connecting theater and garden
And to close it all off? Sunday, June 22, is all about Trapezoma, a big communal table party with DJs spinning from atop the table and nostalgic bites from To Patrikon (think trahanokeftedes and kleftiko under the trees).
What you need to know.
- Kids under 12? They’re in free.
- One ticket = access to all four days.
- The street food market is open to all—no ticket needed—on June 20 & 21.
This isn’t just a festival. It’s a midsummer celebration of everything we’ve missed: connection, creativity, dancing, and a bit of healthy chaos. So grab your sunscreen, your friends, and your best dancing shoes. Nicosia’s throwing a party, and everyone’s invited.
