Tanzania's festivals and celebrations are plentiful. Cultural events, African music festivals, traditional Tanzanian ceremonies and commemorations: the country celebrates the arts, religion and history throughout the year! Here are 11 festivals and events you shouldn't miss…

The Wanyambo Festival

Celebrated in January at Makumbusho (in the Dar es Salaam region), the Wanyambo Festival celebrates Tanzanian culture. It's an opportunity to discover traditional dances and songs, and to taste local specialties!

The Zanzibar Revolution Festival

On January 12, in Zanzibar, the revolution festival takes place in memory of the victims who fell during the 1964 clashes. For the occasion, cannon shots resound symbolically in the port of Stone Town.

The Swahili Music Festival

Very popular in Tanzania, the Swahili Music Festival (also known as Sauti za busara) is held every year in February in Stone Town. Since 2003, the festival has celebrated African artists and developed the music industry across the country's regions. You'll hear traditional Tanzanian music here, such as taarab.

Union Day

April 26 is an important date, as it celebrates the Union Day between Tanzania and Zanzibar. It's a very popular celebration, during which you'll witness numerous parades and solemn commemorations.

The Mzalendo Halisi Music Festival

If you visit the Dar es Salaam region in May, you'll have the chance to attend the Mzalendo Halisi music festival. Over two days, you'll enjoy eclectic exhibitions and numerous concerts by Tanzanian artists!

Dhow Countries Festival

Celebrated in early July in Zanzibar, the Dhow Countries Film Festival showcases the 7th art. For two weeks, you'll enjoy film screenings (movies from several countries) as well as concerts, theatre productions and dance performances. You'll also catch sight of the famous dhow vessels…

Mwaka Kogwa Festival or Tanzania's New Year Festival

In July-August, the Mwaka Kogwa festival takes place in Zanzibar. For four days, the archipelago celebrates Tanzanian culture. Locals then participate in traditional rituals, such as battles with banana leaves fought by men, prayers, offerings, and more. Despite its tourist appeal, the event remains a genuine local celebration!

Eid al-Fitr – End of Ramadan

The end of August coincides with the end of Ramadan. This major celebration is synonymous with joy, festivities, dance… and food – the country becomes fragrant with countless aromas!

The Diwali Festival

Multiethnic Tanzania also celebrates the cultures of non-African communities. In October, as part of the festival of lights called the Diwali festival, the country illuminates with thousands of lanterns. Originating from India and Nepal, this tradition symbolizes the victory of light over darkness…

The Bagamoyo Arts Festival

The city of Bagamoyo hosts an arts festival every year. For seven days in October-November, live performances (theatre, dance, magic, etc.) are scheduled alongside conferences and exhibitions. Organized since 1982, it's Tanzania's most important arts festival!

Tanzania's Independence Day

December 9? Tanzania celebrates Independence Day (granted by the United Kingdom in 1961). Since then, the country has celebrated this unforgettable date. During this major national celebration, military parades march throughout the country and numerous concerts are organized.

Audrey Denjean