Event Recap: The Naija Wedding - When Kelowna Fell in Love with Nigerian Culture

Kelowna witnessed something extraordinary this October - a night that shimmered with colour, rhythm, and joy. On October 4, 2025, the Africans in Okanagan Society hosted The Naija Wedding. A fake/mock wedding that served as an immersive cultural experience that transported everyone into the heart of Nigerian celebration. It was a night like no other, a blend of love, laughter, music, and connection that left guests completely spellbound.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was electric. The air hummed with Afrobeats and laughter as guests adorned in flowing agbadas, sparkling geles, and bold Ankara prints filled the venue with dazzling energy. It didn’t matter where you were from - by the end of the night, everyone was Nigerian.

The evening opened with warm words from MLA Gavin Dew (Kelowna–Mission), whose message underscored the power of cultural exchange in building stronger, more connected communities. His remarks set an inspiring tone, a reminder that Kelowna’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths.

Following that, Deputy Mayor Rick Webber delivered greetings and an official message on behalf of the Mayor and City Council, celebrating the event as a milestone for cultural inclusion and community pride. His message drew applause and smiles across the room, a shared recognition that this was more than an event; it was a celebration of belonging.

As the “ceremony” began, guests were transported into the lively world of a Nigerian wedding — complete with traditional music, dancing, and joyful theatrics that had the entire audience cheering. It was impossible to stay seated as the drums kicked in, the bride and groom made their grand entrance, and the crowd joined in to dance and spray (shower with (fake)cash) just as they would at a real celebration in Lagos or Abuja.

Then came the food — and it was every bit as memorable as the music. Plates overflowed with smoky jollof rice, grilled fish and beef, fried plantains, puff-puff, and rich stews/soups. The aromas alone were enough to transport guests straight to West Africa. By the end of the meal, every conversation circled back to the same topic: “When can we do this again?”

Throughout the evening, the sense of unity was undeniable. Strangers danced together, families laughed together, and people who had never experienced Nigerian culture left with a newfound appreciation for its depth, warmth, and joy. The Naija Wedding proved that cultural celebration isn’t just entertainment — it’s a bridge that brings communities closer together.

The organizers expressed their appreciation to the City of Kelowna for their unwavering support of cultural events and initiatives like this. They also thanked all the other sponsors (including Okanagan Echo) as their contributions created a celebration that people will be talking about for years to come — one that showcased the power of community collaboration and the beauty of African heritage right here in the Okanagan.

By the time the last song played and the lights dimmed, one thing was clear: Kelowna had fallen in love with Nigerian culture. Guests didn’t just attend an event — they lived an experience.

The Naija Wedding marked a new chapter for cultural celebration in the Okanagan, proving that when people come together to share their traditions, magic happens. If this was just the beginning, we can’t wait to see what comes next.

To learn more about Africans in Okanagan or attend their next event, check out their website here: https://okanaganafricans.ca/