The Pros and Pros of Partying In A Park
Posted on 16. Aug, 2009 by G.Anaman in Events
Event: Ghana Family Fun Day Party In The Park
Organizers: Akwaaba UK
Date: Saturday 8th August, 2009
Location: Copthall Park, Mill Hill
Time: 11am-8pm
So a week ago we (G.Anaman & Broadband tutt tutt where was Eileen) found ourselves revelling in the crops of North-West for this annual event. We decided to take a look back on what was a good day in less reporting fashion, unfortunately we forgot to take a camera for the event’s festivities but just try and imagine it with us. 7 Reasons why we enjoyed Ghana Party In The Park…
The Turnout
We wasnt at the million man march but it had to look a little something like this…without the marching….and the men only aspect….oh and replace millions with thousands. It was PACKED, you’d think the park was giving out reperations. From the Uncles with the rhinestone gouchos to the cute toddlers with dribble hanging off their bottom lips it was a site sight to see (both work). It was one of those events where you knew at least 50 people (In Broadband’s case 500..who do you know that spots someone they know every single time they do a 180 degree turn? without fail) All races and ages turned up and we were graced by the presence of Ghanaian High Commissioner to the UK and Ireland His Excellency, Mr Annan Cato and the Ghanaian Minister for Chieftaincy Affairs Mr Sampson Kwaku Boafo. Good Times, Great Stuff.
The Food
Whoever tells you that Ghanaian Jollof rice isnt nice should jump head first over a cliff. The food provided at the food courts was delicious..heh! (Ghanaian colloquialism) Jollof rice, plantain, salad and then Supermalt to wash it down, my dreams had been fulfilled, Im done. Hunger is a wonderful feeling to have when you KNOW there’s food available. There was an array of African, Western and Carribean dishes to taste, we were like kids in the candy store, seconds and thirds were a must. I think I know what Im having for dinner mate.
The Music
See usually at certain events we are prone to playing the “cool” guy when it comes to music. Rather than move a muscle we’d nod our heads as if a Biggie track represented every music genre playing. However today was a different day! As soon as that Hip-Life infultrated (ghanaian accent) the speakers, ay!! My left shoulder started moving, then my right one, then I started doing this grandad.com/notsurewhereimgoingwiththis dance move. Indeed the Bride was Kissed that day. This in addition to guest performances from Sway, Donaeo, Wretch 32, Scorcher, Tinchy Stryder, Gracious K and Chipmunk amongst others. Ive proceeded to make Daddy Lumba songs the soundtrack to my life
The Weather
UK is home of the unexpected, you never quite know what to wear. It can be hot for the whole day, then all of a sudden storms decide to visit like an unwanted Jehovah’s witness at your door. Where did you come from? Yet Broadband decided to wear a grey with shorts for bonus comfort despite warnings of being a UK resident. Indeed he lived to see another day, the Sun stayed and the breeze was equally welcoming. Humid though it made for a positive vibe and sweaty forehead.
The Women
As males it is never a crime to go to these type of events and accidentally discover an array of nice women. Its what we hope for, its what we live for, its what we want. I doubt we were as hungry as the younger crowd though; Im positive there was a couple of them slow wining to the Migraine Skank. Were there some nice and respectable women on show? Yes…yes there were. We will say no more
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The Hustle
One thing we love about africans is we are masters of negotiation and haggling, if you dont know what I mean go to Ghana and take a taxi everywhere, you will come back as The Negotiatior £15 for a printed T-Shirt? you’re having a laugh….no they are not. Indeed my friend tried to sell me a printed T-shirt for £15 when half the price was more realistic. Credit Crunch? ha yeah right. Did I end up buying it? well..
The Clothes
The youngsters were more accustomed to their high-street clothing but the “aunties” and “uncles” of the event made sure they brought out the fine silverware of the clothing market. Kentes of all colours graced the park and I can imagine the Birds Eye view saw an assorted coloured field reminiscent of a super sized skittle packet.
The After Party
We didnt go but heard it was free, thats a good incentive for a great day.
Overall it was a pretty good day, it was still missing something which we cant point out for some reason but we may find ourselves there next year all depending. Shout out to Akwaaba UK for continuing to throw such events in aid to spread positive vibes and knowledge of one’s culture.
“Our aim was to bring out people from all age groups to have fun, at the same time creating an atmosphere for our youth and friends of Ghana to learn about our culture” - Dennis Tawiah, Event Manager
VERDICT 7/10
