Mozambique Events, Things to Do and Festivals 2014 / 2015
(Mozambique, MZ, South-East Africa)
Compared to other African countries, Mozambique has a relatively limited programme of annual events. However, more and more cultural, artistic and sporting events are being added to Mozambique's calendar, and so when you first arrive in Maputo, it's worth checking if any festivals, fairs and other events are taking place during your visit.
Maputo is often to be found staging some kind of musical festival, art exhibition or local gathering. In particular, look out for information about the latest goings-on at the Centro Cultural Franco Mocambicano and the Kulungwana Espaco Artistico.
Mozambique Calendar of Festivals and Events
January
- Festival of Hope - organised to raise awareness of HIV risks, this lively gathering usually attracts a host of popular bands from southern Africa and beyond
- Red Dress Run - organised by the Maputo Hash House Harriers as part of an international series of charity Red Dress runs
February
- Mozambican Heroes' Day - February 3rd, a day paying tribute to the many important revolutionary heroes of the country
March
- Easter - thousands of Mozambicans head off on holiday during this busy seasonal religious celebration
April
- Woman's Day - a public holiday held every April 7th to celebrate Mozambican women and, in particular, Josina Machel, who played an important role in the liberation of the country
May
- International Workers' Day - May 1st, a public holiday also often referred to as Labour Day, with processions and rallies held in the largest cities
- Maputo International Music Festival - an event that includes piano recitals, jazz workshops, opera performances, jam sessions and even film screenings
June
- Independence Day - celebrated on June 25th each year to commemorate the country gaining independence from the colonial government of Portugal, with traditional dance, poetry and music performances. Festivities in Maputo are always preceded by a presidential speech
July
- Prawn Run - an annual cycle ride that's organised as a fun event. The route includes a Mozambican leg, which is about 80 km / 50 miles in length. Fast, medium and slow groups are offered
- Tambo International Art Camp and Festival - a small annual fiesta that celebrates cultural diversity. Held in Pemba, events include art workshops, as well as dance, drama and live music
August
- Chopi Music Festival - held in Quissico village, in the Inhambane province, in an attempt to preserve traditional Chope music
- August Festival - held in Maputo to promote cultural diversity in the country
September
- Moya International Music Festival - staged in Beira over several weeks, starting at the end of September
- Victory Day - held on September 7th to commemorate the ending of the Mozambican War of Independence in 1974 and the subsequent granting of independence in 1975, following the Lusaka Agreement
- Revolution Day - September 25th, remembering the country's struggle for independence within the province of Cabo Delgado
October
- Day of Peace and Reconciliation - October 4th, a public holiday commemorating the peace agreement signed on this day in 1992
- Angoche Day - the city's anniversary is celebrated each year with a 10-km / 6-mile road race, a motorcycle race and other festivities, drawing large crowds
November
- Kinani International Festival of Contemporary Dance - held in Maputo at the beginning of November, Kinani showcases modern dance in all its many forms
December
- Christmas and Family Day - celebrated on December 25th throughout the country
- St. Sylvester Race - held on December 31st each year in Maputo