BULAWAYO - Thousands of residents filled the streets of Zimbabwe’s second-largest city Monday for Bulawayo Day celebrations, marking the 132nd anniversary of the city’s founding with a colorful carnival parade and heritage events that launched this year’s Bulawayo Arts Festival.
The annual observance commemorates June 1, 1894, when the settlement was formally declared a town following the arrival of British South Africa Company forces.
Organizers blended historical reflection with cultural pride, highlighting the city’s Ndebele royal heritage and its evolution into a hub of industry and creativity.
A highlight was a heritage trail led by Highlanders Football Club supporters from their clubhouse through landmarks including Barbourfields Stadium and Inxwala Grounds to City Hall.
Marchers in traditional Ndebele attire performed isitshikitsha dances and sang folklore songs as crowds lined the route. Highlanders, celebrating its own centenary, featured historical displays along the way.
City officials and speakers, including Director Khumalo and Councillor Mahlangu, praised Bulawayo’s resilience through its pre-colonial roots as King Lobengula’s capital, colonial era, and post-independence challenges.
At City Hall, the day featured an open event with stalls, exhibitions, live music and cultural performances.
Organizers encouraged residents to “walk together and celebrate our city in style,” with many donning traditional regalia or carrying flags.
The celebrations kicked off the 2026 Bulawayo Arts Festival, running Tuesday through Saturday under the theme “Building Bridges: Preserving Connections.”
The festival will showcase music, theater, dance, visual arts, poetry and other performances across city venues, building on the city’s declaration of June 2 as Bulawayo Day and the subsequent arts week.
Assistant Director of Housing and Community Services Linda Sibindi said the events aim to honor the city’s diverse culture while empowering local artists and boosting community spirit.
Bulawayo, known as the City of Kings and Queens, has hosted the arts festival annually since its formal launch in 2020, adapting through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic to become a flagship cultural program.
No major incidents were reported during Monday’s events, which drew families and cultural groups to the city center.
Festival activities continue through the week with additional performances and exhibitions.