AfrikaBurn 2009

Thu, 27 Aug 2009
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AfrikaBurn 2009
AfrikaBurn 2009 is almost upon us and the cheaper tickets are already sold out! But it’s not too late to decide to head for this mega, arty party based on the international Burning Man model.

This is, according to organisers, much more than an excuse to get together with like minded people and party the weekend away.

 

It is a “creative arts and freedom of expression festival that aims to build temporary community through collaborative arts projects, in a completely non-commercial environment.”

 

The massive, interactive art installations add drama to the atmosphere along with music and performance installations, all contributed by participants.

 

There is a specific vision behind Burning Man / AfrikaBurn that sets the event apart from other comparable outdoor gatherings, such as trance parties and the like.

 
According to the AfrikaBurn website:
 
"The Burning Man festival grew out of loose grouping of individuals and organizations who questioned, and continue to question mainstream, highly commercialised society and what it does to the notion and workings of community."
 
 
Burning Man’s mission statement states:
 
"Our intention is to generate society that connects each individual to his or her creative powers, to participation in community, to the larger realm of civic life, and to the even greater world of nature that exists beyond society”.
 
One of the key aspects of attending a Burning Man event like this one is the cashless, gifting system used by those attending throughout the event. Nothing is sold or bought, there are no stalls selling food or any other items, and no bartering. You give freely without expecting anything in return, and are asked to bring sufficient food, water and shelter to see you through the party.
 
 
The organizes also request that revelers leave the site as they found it, without damage to the environment, litter or any other permanent ‘trace’ left.
 
 
Personally I am sure many attend this kind of event more for the mega party it is and less for the worthy sentiments behind it, but it does offer attendees the chance to try a different way of being within a community from the way we live out our lives in today’s money driven society. And while any lasting good may come of it is debatable once the party’s over, it is still, no doubt a good thing to be challenged in our set perceptions every once in a while.

 

Need to Know

 

Dates: 9-13 September 2009

 

Venue: This venue is in the Karoo “on the longest stretch of road in South Africa without a town on it.” For more detailed and helpful directions please refer to the website.

 

AfrikaBurn Tickets:

 

You can purchase tickets at:

 

  • CAPE TOWN: ASHANTI LODGE at 11 Hof Street, Gardens, 021-423 8721. Ashanti is open 24 hours a day.
  • JOHANNESBURG: L’ ELEPHANT TERRIBLE BOOK SHOP, 44 Stanley Ave Melville, Off Empire rd. Open 7 days a week from 9.30 to 4pm.
  • Or easier yet, buy your AfrikaBurn Tickets online available from now until 7 September 2009.
 
The tickets are priced as follows:
 
 
  • Note: The R200 and R250 tickets have been sold out.
  • R350 – unlimited amount available, prior to the event
  • R450 – tickets at the gate (Only cash will be accepted)
  • You will not be able to buy tickets or enter AfrikaBurn after 7pm on Saturday 12th September 2009.
(Image: Terry Westby-Nunn. All rights reserved)
 
 
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Reader Feedback (2)

J
Jolene (5 years ago)

Thanks for the info - I''m definitely going - first time for me. I just need to get a great idea for participation. Is there anyone who has been before who has any suggestions or advise on what to take or leave behind?

B
Burning man festival (5 years ago)

Burning Man Festival, Nevada is challenging, mesmerizing & influential event, which disappears without a shred of existence over period of time. In black rock dessert, this spiritual, arty & counter-ethnic annual event can be either intimate & personal event or typical tourist on unique ride for you.