The serene Aburi Botanical Gardens played host to an electric atmosphere as hundreds of music lovers, families, and festival-goers gathered for the 2025 edition of the Joy FM Family Party in the Park.

Held annually on Boxing Day, December 26th, the event has become one of the biggest highlights of the festive season, and this year’s edition lived up to its reputation with an unforgettable blend of live music, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

The event kicked off with a captivating live band performance by the Shakers Band, setting a lively tone for the day’s festivities.

Their high-energy tunes and infectious rhythms immediately got the crowd moving, drawing in festival-goers from all walks of life.

The band's smooth fusion of Afrobeat and highlife kept the energy buzzing and served as the perfect prelude to the exciting day ahead.

As the event unfolded, the audience was treated to the smooth and soulful sounds of Kwan Pa Band, renowned for their mastery of palmwine music.

For many, the performance evoked a sense of nostalgia, as the group’s engaging music, laced with rich cultural rhythms, had the crowd swaying and clapping along.

Kwan Pa Band’s engaging presence on stage is what has made them a fan favourite, always leaving audiences asking for more.

Among the highlights of the festival was the appearance of highlife legend Kwabena Kwabena, who was marking 20 years in the music industry.

The crowd erupted with excitement as he graced the stage with his classic hits, including his latest remix of "Aso," which has become one of the hottest songs in the country.

Kwabena Kwabena, widely regarded as a top act for parties and celebrations, delivered a memorable set filled with a diverse mix of songs, ensuring that there was something for everyone in the audience.

Adding to the star power, DopeNation, the dynamic music duo known for their energetic party anthems, electrified the stage with their fast-paced, crowd-pumping hits.

Tracks like Zormizor, Gbohe, Gboza, Naami, Thank God, and Zanku kept the energy levels soaring, making sure the dance floors stayed packed. The duo’s vibrant performance was a true reflection of their reputation as one of Ghana’s leading musical acts for youth-driven parties.

However, the family-friendly atmosphere of the event was what truly set the Joy FM Family Party in the Park apart from other music festivals.

Patrons enjoyed a wide array of traditional games, including sack races and dancing competitions, which brought out the competitive spirit in people of all ages.

There were also thrilling treasure hunts and cooking contests, with participants showcasing their culinary skills in a fun, relaxed setting.

For the younger attendees, there were plenty of activities to keep them entertained, including bouncing castles and face-painting stations.

Despite intermittent drizzles, the festive atmosphere at this year's remained undiminished, as patrons continued to dance enthusiastically at the Aburi Botanical Gardens.

Although rainy spells at times dampened the ground, they did little to dampen spirits. Revellers embraced the weather, sheltering under umbrellas and canopies while continuing to enjoy the entertainment on offer.

Many danced and sang along to performances, demonstrating the resilient festive mood that has come to define the annual event.

Parents and children alike could be seen laughing, playing, and bonding over shared experiences that transcended generations.

The 2025 edition of the festival was powered by Ecobank and sponsored by a range of popular brands, including Gino, Frytrol, Jamaa Detergent Powder, M Ticket, Anomansa Beach Resort Elmina, and Doormaster. Their sponsorship helped ensure that the event was a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Photo Credit: David Andoh & Judy Yayra Avanu