Top African Events & Festivals in Southern Africa – Month-by-Month Guide

Why Attend African Events and Festivals in Southern Africa?

Before diving into the calendar, let’s understand why experiencing these African festivals and events in Southern Africa should be on your travel bucket list:

Cultural immersion: Witness authentic cultural rituals, dances, and traditional attire.
Music and arts: Enjoy genres from Afrobeat and jazz to traditional folk music.
Community spirit: Festivals showcase the warm hospitality and unity of local communities.
Unique experiences: Many festivals celebrate heritage, history, and modern artistic expression.
Travel opportunities: Combine festival attendance with exploring breathtaking landscapes.

Southern African Events & Festivals: Month-by-Month Guide

January

National Arts Festival – Grahamstown, South Africa

January kicks off with the world-renowned National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, South Africa. This festival is one of Africa’s biggest annual arts festivals, featuring theatre, music, dance, and visual arts.

Highlights: Performances from local and international artists, workshops, and exhibitions.
Keywords: South Africa arts festival, National Arts Festival Grahamstown, African theatre festival.

February

Harare International Carnival – Harare, Zimbabwe

In February, the bustling capital of Zimbabwe hosts the Harare International Carnival, a colorful celebration of African music, dance, and culture.

Highlights: Street parades, live music concerts, dance competitions.
Keywords: Zimbabwe festivals, Harare Carnival, African music festival.

March

Cape Town International Jazz Festival – Cape Town, South Africa

Known as “Africa’s Grandest Gathering,” the Cape Town International Jazz Festival attracts jazz lovers worldwide. This festival features top African and international jazz performers.

Highlights: Multiple stages, workshops, and networking events.
Keywords: Cape Town jazz festival, African jazz events, Southern Africa music festivals.

April

Windhoek Carnival – Windhoek, Namibia

April brings the vibrant Windhoek Carnival, where locals and visitors come together for a day of colorful parades, dancing, and cultural displays.

Highlights: Traditional costumes, floats, and street performances.
Keywords: Namibian festivals, Windhoek carnival, African cultural events.

May

Chibuku Road to Fame – Lusaka, Zambia

May is home to Chibuku Road to Fame, Zambia’s most popular music competition and festival. This event highlights emerging talents and celebrates Zambian music culture.

Highlights: Live music battles, audience voting, prize awards.
Keywords: Zambian music festival, African talent competition, Chibuku Road to Fame.

June

Mafikeng Mahikeng Festival – Mafikeng, South Africa

June hosts the Mafikeng Mahikeng Festival, an event celebrating the heritage of the Tswana people with traditional dance, music, and crafts.

Highlights: Cultural performances, craft markets, food stalls.
Keywords: South African cultural festivals, Tswana heritage festival, Mafikeng events.

July

Kasane International Music and Arts Festival – Kasane, Botswana

July’s highlight in Botswana is the Kasane International Music and Arts Festival, showcasing local and regional artists across multiple genres.

Highlights: Live concerts, art exhibitions, community workshops.
Keywords: Botswana music festival, Kasane arts festival, Southern Africa music events.

August

Maputo International Music Festival – Maputo, Mozambique

In August, the Maputo International Music Festival draws crowds for a blend of Afrobeat, jazz, and traditional Mozambican music.

Highlights: Outdoor concerts, dance workshops, food markets.
Keywords: Mozambique festivals, Maputo music festival, African music events.

September

Lake of Stars Festival – Mangochi, Malawi

Though Malawi is often considered part of East Africa, the Lake of Stars Festival held in September deserves mention for its popularity in Southern Africa.

Highlights: Beach concerts, arts market, local food.
Keywords: Lake of Stars festival, Malawi music festival, African beach festival.

October

Jinja Nile Festival – Jinja, Uganda

October’s Jinja Nile Festival offers a mix of music, water sports, and cultural exhibitions along the Nile River.

Highlights: Boat races, live music, cultural shows.
Keywords: Nile River festival, Uganda cultural events, African music festival.

November

Marula Festival – Tzaneen, South Africa

November’s Marula Festival in South Africa celebrates the marula fruit harvest with traditional dances, food, and music.

Highlights: Cultural performances, marula wine tastings, local crafts.
Keywords: Marula Festival South Africa, African harvest festivals, Tsonga culture.

December

Cape Town Minstrel Carnival – Cape Town, South Africa

December culminates in the famous Cape Town Minstrel Carnival, a lively street parade showcasing colorful costumes, music, and dance.

Highlights: Marching bands, traditional songs, street celebrations.
Keywords: Cape Town carnival, African street festivals, minstrel festival South Africa.

Popular Themes in Southern African Festivals

Music: Jazz, Afrobeat, traditional folk, and contemporary genres dominate many festivals.
Culture and Tradition: Ceremonies celebrating heritage, ancestral rituals, and harvests.
Art and Crafts: Markets and exhibitions that showcase local artistry.
Food and Drink: Regional cuisines and beverages, including local brews and wines.

How to Plan Your Festival Trip in Southern Africa

Research Dates Early: Festivals often have fixed annual dates but can sometimes shift.
Book Accommodation in Advance: Especially for popular festivals like Cape Town Jazz Festival.
Pack Appropriately: Prepare for weather conditions—some festivals are outdoors.
Engage Locals: Hiring local guides enhances your experience and supports communities.
Respect Traditions: Many events have cultural significance; be mindful of customs.

Conclusion

Southern Africa’s calendar is packed with vibrant events and festivals that bring together music lovers, culture seekers, and travelers from around the world. Whether you want to experience the rhythmic beats of the Cape Town International Jazz Festival, the colorful displays at the Windhoek Carnival, or the soulful tunes at the Lake of Stars Festival, there’s always something happening year-round.

By following this month-by-month guide, you can plan your trip around the most iconic and lively African festivals in Southern Africa, making your journey not just a visit but a celebration of Africa’s rich cultural tapestry.