One of Malawi’s biggest tourist events occurred this weekend – the fifth annual Lake of Stars Music Festival. International and African artists shared the stage at Livingstonia Beach, attracting record crowds to this sleepy little part of the country.

(Friends at Lake of Stars)

(Alisha, Katie, Cassandra, Jennifer and Amy)

I must admit the music was an eclectic mix of musicians and DJs, vacillating between acts such as the Black Missionaries (Malawian Reggae Band) to the UK’s famed turntablist DJs, the Scratch Perverts. Regardless of the genre blaring through the sound system, we all managed to dance the night away.

(Alisha, Andrew, Emily and Ladan)

The setting itself was simply stunning, with the stage nestled up against the dramatic rocks that hug the coast of Lake Malawi. And the logistics of the festival were better than I had anticipated, with numerous food stalls, beverage stands, craft vendors and even adequate toilet facilities – which are essential considering the vast sea of pitched tents adjacent to the festival grounds.

(Amy and Chippy)

Fortunately, my dear friends Kate and Carl have a house right on the lake, which made for a perfect hub throughout the weekend. Approximately twenty of us spent our days chilling out at the A-frame, swimming in the lake, reading on the beach, and cooking meals together. By in large, life in Malawi, although certainly fraught with challenges, continues to be rewarding from both a personal and a professional perspective.

(Kate and Carl)

(Todd and Cassandra)

I made my usual jaunt up and down Senga Bay, taking photos along the way. Unfortunately, I don’t have too many pictures from the festival itself – I didn’t want to carry my camera while boogying on the dance floor.

(Cargo boats in Senga Bay)

Please continue to keep in touch.

Much love,

Amy