The Let Them Schools Arts Festival is set to return for its 13th edition on Friday, 19 September, and Saturday, 20 September 2025, at the Harare City Sports Centre, promising a bigger and more vibrant celebration of youth creativity.
This year’s theme, “Paivapo, Kukhona, Once Upon a Time,” will guide two days of performances and exhibitions that highlight resilience, history, and imagination through the arts.
The festival, which has become a cultural mainstay over the past 13 years, provides a platform for learners from ECD, primary, and high schools to showcase their talents in drama, music, dance, poetry, and visual arts. Organizers confirmed that registration remains open to schools from outside Harare, broadening participation and diversity.
Speaking ahead of the event, Let Them Trust Director Chidochemoyo Musasiwa said the festival empowers young people to become storytellers of their time.
> “Paivapo, Kukhona, Once Upon a Time is a reminder that these young performers are documenting where we have come from, where we are, and where we are going,” Musasiwa said.
This year’s edition carries special significance as it honors the life and musical legacy of the late Leonard Dembo, with members of his family expected to attend as guests of honor.
In addition to student showcases, the festival will feature performances by guest artists, including the Music Crossroads Band, Gweru-based singer Beke, Tatenda Mahachi, The Marasha Kids, Charles TJ, Afro-Ethnic Babe, and comedian Moojaya.
Festival organizers said the event has overcome several challenges, including a date shift from July to September, which they believe has introduced a new summer energy.
> “The 13th Let Them Schools Arts Festival has faced challenges, but the team and partners have worked hard to ensure this edition will be a resounding success. Who says 13 is an unlucky number?” Musasiwa added.
The 2025 edition will also see a new partnership with the City of Harare, which has provided the Harare City Sports Centre as the venue.
Organizers say the collaboration, alongside fresh ideas from new staff and strengthened partnerships, will make this year’s event one of the most memorable to date.
Event Details:
Dates: Friday 19 & Saturday 20 September 2025
Venue: Harare City Sports Centre
Categories: ECD, Primary School, High School
Theme: Paivapo, Kukhona, Once Upon a Time
Schools, participants, and sponsors are encouraged to register early to secure places at the festival, which continues to grow as a beacon of youth creativity in Zimbabwe
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