Ghanaian Independence Weekend in the DMV was headlined by the inaugural edition of Rolling Cocoa, a vibrant Ghanaian music festival brought to life by Duke Concept, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, March 9th. At venues and clubs around the region, Duke Concept held preparties and afterparties to celebrate Ghana beyond the festival.

Duke Concept founder Osita "Duke" Ugeh said it best: “this festival was more than just a concert – it was a celebration of culture, a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.”

The festival quickly filled out The Anthem’s capacity after the doors opened at 6 PM. Although advertised as a seated event, this festival was not one where the crowd sat back and enjoyed the music passively. Nonstop dancing filled the rows between chairs and every corner of the venue, exceeding the boundaries of a typical Anthem show.  Fans flocked from all corners of the East Coast to celebrate Ghanaian culture as well as their heart pounding music.

Eight acts, headlined by Stonebwoy and Black Sherif, took the stage throughout the night. MCs Kwasi Beast and Kappacinco kept the energy up between sets, which was no problem at all for this crowd. The showcase of Ghanaian included Efya’s soulful vocals, R2Bees’ infectious presence, plus more from Kwesi Arthur, Camidoh, and Kidi.

After the festival, Rolling Cocoa announced their rebrand to “Golden Cocoa” for all future festivals and concerts. In 2025, Duke Concept plans to expand the festival to London, New York, and Toronto.

While the night was all about Ghana, fans with Ivorian, Nigerian, and Malian heritage came out to support Ghanaian Independence. It was an honor to get to experience the joy of the DMV’s West African communities coming together to celebrate Ghanaian music, dancing, and culture.

Be sure to follow Rolling Cocoa and Duke Concept to see when Rolling Cocoa rolls back into Washington DC in addition to the expanded tour in 2025.