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Swimsuits & Suya

Chicago

About

Welcome to Swimsuits & Suya – a vibrant event platform that serves as a dynamic hub for African celebration and cultural exchange.

Swimsuits & Suya began in 2023 as a fun idea between two friends to bring people together and celebrate the African experience. What started as lively dockside gatherings has grown into a vibrant cultural platform, blending food, music, and community. Known for our signature suya cook-offs, we now host biweekly nightlife events and are taking the dock party to the water, expanding the celebration in exciting new ways.

What We’re About

We exist to create spaces where African culture is celebrated, shared, and experienced in all its richness. From the rhythm of Afrobeats to the aroma of sizzling suya, our events are designed to transport guests to the heart of West Africa—without leaving Chicago. We’re here to connect communities, honor heritage, and make every moment unforgettable.

Swimsuits & Suya Weekend is a land-based event series & any boating activities are the independent choice of attendees at their own risk.

How We’ve Grown

What began as intimate summer dock parties has evolved into a citywide cultural movement. Today, Swimsuits & Suya brings together hundreds of people every month for nightlife events, dockside gatherings, and now water-based celebrations. With each event, our reach grows, our flavors get bolder, and our music gets louder.

What to Expect

Expect bold flavors, high-energy music, and a welcoming crowd ready to dance, connect, and enjoy the moment. Our events are also a hub for networking—where you can meet dope people, spark new collaborations, and make lasting memories. From friendly suya competitions to live DJs, and with whistles as a staple at every party, we guarantee a one-of-a-kind vibe you won’t find anywhere else in Chicago.

SWIMSUITS & SUYA FAQs

How do I register for Swimsuits & Suya Boat Weekend?

Tickets and bundles are available here.

Do I need a ticket if I already have a boat? 

Yes. The only ticket required is the Boat Flag Registration, which provides each privately owned or rented vessel with its official event flag. This flag identifies you as an active participant in the weekend’s activities.

 What does the ticket include? 

Ticket options vary and can include access to:

  • Weekend full of events

  • Darty On The Water in the Playpen

​VIP experiences

Note: Boat rentals are booked separately and is the responsibility of each attendee. Swimsuits & Suya does not offer a directory of rentals or yacht booking assistance.

Does everyone on my boat or in my crew need a ticket? 

Yes, each person on your boat or in your crew must have their own ticket to participate in official events throughout the weekend.

Can I get a refund if I can't attend? 

All sales are final. Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable.

We strongly encourage attendees to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case unforeseen circumstances prevent you from attending.

Super404 LLC is an event‑marketing company. We do not arrange or sell vessel charters and assume no responsibility for private boating activities. All attendees who choose to enter U.S. navigable waters must comply with Coast Guard regulations and local laws.

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Our Vison

To be Chicago’s premier cultural bridge, bringing the vibrancy of African traditions to the city’s waterfront, nightlife, and beyond. We envision a community where food, music, and shared experiences unite people from all walks of life—celebrating heritage, fostering connections, and inspiring a deeper appreciation for African culture.

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Meet the Founders of Swimsuits & Suya

TEAm Member

Two friends turned cultural curators, we started Swimsuits & Suya to create spaces that celebrate African heritage through food, music, and community. From a single dockside gathering in 2023 to one of Chicago’s fastest-growing cultural platforms, our mission is simple: bring people together, showcase our culture, and make every event unforgettable.

Swimsuits & Suya

CO-FOUNDER

MAKUNDE

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The Connector

Swimsuits & Suya

CO-FOUNDER

BILAL

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The Facilitator

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sponsors and vendors

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Proud Partners

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