A Return to Nkhotakota’s Shores
After a four-year hiatus, the Lake of Stars Malawi Arts Festival returned triumphantly in 2024 at Fish Eagle Bay Lodge, introducing festivalgoers to the serene and relatively untouched Sani Beach in Nkhotakota. Building on the success of that edition, the 2025 festival is officially scheduled for Friday, October 17 to Sunday, October 19, once again at this beautiful location nestled on the shores of Lake Malawi.
This shift to Nkhotakota, a lesser-known but richly historic region, marks a deliberate move by the organizers to decentralize the cultural experience, foster sustainable tourism, and highlight Malawi’s cultural and ecological diversity. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Malawi—often called the “Calendar Lake” for its long stretch and crystal-clear waters—Fish Eagle Bay Lodge offers an immersive blend of tranquility and creative energy.
A Cultural Showcase with Global Reach
Since its founding in 2004 by British national Will Jameson, Lake of Stars has evolved into one of Africa’s most dynamic festivals, bridging local and global cultures through a rich lineup of music, dance, theatre, poetry, and visual arts. More than just an entertainment event, it’s a celebration of Malawian heritage on an international platform.
In 2025, over 70 acts are expected to grace the festival’s three main stages, including both emerging and established performers. Leading the local lineup is Madalitso Band, a homegrown duo known for their raw, acoustic sound and signature handmade instruments. Their inclusion underscores the festival’s commitment to elevating authentic Malawian voices alongside international artists representing genres from Afro-house and kwaito to soul, electronic, and alternative rock.
Beyond performances, the festival includes panel talks on creative entrepreneurship, children’s activities, yoga sessions, lakeside film screenings, and wellness experiences. From the Tree-House Pavilion to the Kweza Stage, every space tells a story—of identity, resilience, and the boundless creativity pulsing across Africa.
Community, Impact & Ecological Ethos
Lake of Stars stands out for its intentionality and impact. It has consistently been a force for good in the communities it touches, with economic benefits, education support, and environmental advocacy at its core.
In previous years, the festival generated over $2 million in revenue for Malawi, providing jobs, promoting domestic tourism, and increasing visibility for local creatives. In 2024, the festival organizers donated school desks built from recycled stage materials and planted trees in Nkhotakota, an initiative set to continue in 2025 as part of a broader sustainability agenda supported by UNESCO.
The 2025 edition will further expand on these values, offering workshops on upcycling, climate-conscious design, and community-led tourism. Local vendors, artisans, and food sellers will play a central role in shaping the festival experience, ensuring that the economic benefits remain within the host community.
Beachside Experience: Music, Nature, Community
From sunrise yoga on the sand to midnight drum circles beneath the stars, Lake of Stars is about more than performances—it's a holistic, sensory experience. The beach and natural surroundings become the fourth stage, offering reflection, connection, and rejuvenation.
Attendees can expect a mix of live music and DJ sets, spoken word, traditional Malawian dance, storytelling, and interactive art installations. During the day, visitors can explore craft markets, sip fresh coconuts by the water, or take a kayak across the lake. In the evening, bonfires light the shoreline, and the rhythms of the continent take over the night.
One of the standout features is the diversity of the audience—local families, international travelers, regional artists, and cultural diplomats all sharing in the spirit of celebration. The atmosphere is inclusive, safe, and deeply rooted in Malawian warmth and hospitality.
Logistics, Tickets & Traveler Tips
Tickets for Lake of Stars 2025 are now available through official platforms like Dope Malawi and Howler. Early bird rates opened in April 2025 in major cities such as Lilongwe, Blantyre, Zomba, and Mzuzu. Children under 12 enter free when accompanied by an adult, reinforcing the event’s family-friendly appeal.
Travel to Nkhotakota is straightforward for domestic and international attendees. The town lies about 180 km north of Lilongwe, approximately a 4-5 hour drive. Shuttles are usually arranged from Lilongwe, with car rentals also available. The nearest airport is Lilongwe’s Kamuzu International Airport (LLW), with pre-arranged festival transport options recommended for ease.
Accommodation ranges from on-site camping to guesthouses, eco-lodges, and beach chalets. Fish Eagle Bay Lodge offers limited rooms, so early booking is essential. Most festivalgoers opt for tents or partner lodges in the surrounding area, and the festival encourages environmentally conscious camping and waste management practices.
Safety and health are taken seriously. Drinking water stations are set up throughout the site, and reusable bottles are encouraged. Malaria precautions are advised, including mosquito repellents and prophylaxis if recommended by your physician. Sunscreen, hats, and light breathable clothing are also essential.
Voices from the Heart
In the words of festival spokesperson Zilanie Gondwe, “Lake of Stars isn’t just a festival; it’s a platform for telling Malawi’s story to the world. It’s where our creativity is honored, where our artists shine, and where our communities see the real impact of arts and culture.”
Madalitso Band echoed that sentiment in a pre-festival interview: “We’ve played all over the world, but performing on home soil, at this festival, by this lake—it’s the highest honor. It’s not just music; it’s memory, meaning, and movement.”
Guests from previous editions described it as “Africa’s best-kept secret,” praising the intimate setting, genuine vibe, and the balance between music, culture, and environment.
Key Festival Info Recap
- Dates: October 17–19, 2025
- Venue: Fish Eagle Bay Lodge, Sani Beach, Nkhotakota District
- Headliners: Madalitso Band and 70+ local and global acts
- Offerings: Live music, dance, poetry, panel talks, wellness, workshops, family activities
- Eco Ethos: Recycling initiatives, tree planting, community-led tourism
- Accessibility: Shuttle services from Lilongwe, international-friendly logistics, child-inclusive admission
- Atmosphere: Safe, inclusive, immersive, and joyful
Lake of Stars 2025 isn’t just a destination; it’s a movement. For three magical days in October, Malawi will open its arms to the world, offering not only music and art, but meaning and momentum. Whether you’re coming to dance by the water, share in the culture, or simply reconnect with joy, Lake of Stars promises a celebration unlike any other.
