The Heineken Wanfire Music Festival drew thousands of fervent fans to Buckhurst Park in Suva, undeterred by the heavy rain that fell throughout the evening. Attendees from across Fiji braved the weather to join in the vibrant celebration, marking a memorable night with performances from some of the Pacific’s leading musical talents.
Despite the rain, the festival atmosphere was electric, with fans singing and dancing along, infusing the park with a palpable energy. “It’s overwhelming to see so many people here despite the rain,” remarked Kali Tui from VT1s. “It’s heartening to see everyone’s love for music.”
Apakuki Nalawa, or Kuki, the frontman of Fiji’s renowned band Inside Out, highlighted the collective spirit that defined the festival. “While we can’t control the weather, we can control the vibes, and the crowd brought incredible energy tonight,” he commented.
The star-studded lineup, including performers such as Liz Vamarasi, One Tox, Sweet Sensation, Kali D, and Spectrum, delivered an array of captivating performances. The event culminated with a headlining performance by renowned Kiwi artist Stan Walker, whose rendition of “Aotearoa” had the crowd singing along enthusiastically.
The Heineken Wanfire Music Festival, a collaborative effort between Spinning Village and Punjas Fiji, continues to build upon Fiji’s vibrant live music scene. By fostering unity and celebrating Pacific culture through music, such festivals play a crucial role in promoting local talents and providing an economic boost through tourism and community engagement. Despite the wet weather, the turnout at Buckhurst Park is a testament to the power of music to bring people together, reinforcing the notion that Fiji is rapidly emerging as a key destination for world-class music events.