Praia’s Gamboa Festival Returns: Honoring Romeu di Lurdes
Praia is preparing for the highly anticipated 32nd edition of the Gamboa Festival, which kicks off this Friday. This year’s event carries a special emotional weight as the city gathers to pay tribute to the late Cape Verdean musician and tireless social activist, Romeu di Lurdes.
A Tribute to a Local Legend
Romeu di Lurdes, born Carlos Manuel Tavares Lopes, passed away unexpectedly eight months ago while preparing for a performance in Lisbon. Beyond his musical contributions, Lopes was a prominent figure in Cape Verdean public life. A passionate advocate for social inclusion, he also ventured into politics, campaigning for the Praia City Council twice—most recently in 2024 representing the People, Labor and Solidarity (PTS) party.
A Jam-Packed Lineup
The three-day festival will feature more than 50 local artists, showcasing the rich diversity of Cape Verdean music. The lineup promises a seamless blend of traditional rhythms and contemporary styles, bringing together legendary icons and the next generation of emerging talent.
Football Fever Hits the Beach
In a unique twist for the opening night, the festival will double as a massive viewing party. At 11:00 PM on Friday, the music will pause as a giant screen broadcasts the South Africa 2026 World Cup clash between Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. The festival grounds are expected to transform into a sea of blue as fans cheer on the “Blue Sharks” in their high-stakes bid to qualify for the round of 32.
Event Details
The Gamboa Festival remains one of the most accessible and popular cultural events in the country. Tickets for Friday and Saturday are priced at 300 escudos (approximately 2.72 euros), while the final day of the festival on Sunday will offer free admission to the public. Annually drawing thousands to the shores of Gamboa Beach, the festival continues to be the crown jewel of Praia’s cultural calendar.
Image: Pexels – Seun Adeniyi
