Alternative Brains Rule (ABR), the non-profit creative studio behind some of the island!s most boundary-pushing cultural projects, proudly announces the evolution of its flagship event: the beloved AfroBanana Festival becomes the Alternative Brains Rule Festival, debuting under its new identity in the heart of Lefkosia on June 19–22, 2025.

This transformation marks three major shifts in the festival!s journey:

• A new name, reflecting the bold, ever-evolving creative ethos of its organisers.

• A new location, bringing the festival into the urban centre for the first time. 

• A new rhythm, as it becomes a biennale, allowing for deeper exploration, collaboration, and impact.

"For over a decade, AfroBanana was a space where creativity, community, and play came together in nature,” said Martha Georgiou and Constantinos Kyprianou, Creative Directors of ABR. "This next chapter brings that same energy into the city — sparking alternative visions of daily life, rooted in the belief that culture can be a catalyst for urban change.”

The Alternative Brains Rule Festival remains rooted in ABR!s mission: to provide a sanctuary for transformative creativity — a space where artists and festivalgoers can explore new possibilities, spark meaningful dialogue, and imagine a better world. From hidden corners to public parks, the festival will activate Lefkosia with immersive performances, workshops, installations, and community-driven experiences that invite people to see the city differently.

Now held every two years, this summer's edition will feature a surprise lineup of diverse artists, cultural interventions, and cross-disciplinary collaborations from Cyprus and beyond.

To kick off this new era, ABR will host a Launch Party on Saturday 12 April at New Division in Lefkosia, supported by Jack on Tour.

Ticket sales open Sunday 13 April, starting with a limited release of Super Early Bird Tickets.

Full programming and additional details will be announced soon. Go to www.abrfest.com and follow @abrfest on Instagram and AlternativeBrainsRuleFestival on Facebook for all festival updates.