Beyond the Beach

Special Events & Festivals in Mauritius

The Mauritius that most visitors miss because they did not know to look for it.

Mauritius has a cultural calendar shaped by one of the most diverse populations in the Indian Ocean. Hindus, Muslims, Creoles, Franco-Mauritians and Chinese communities all celebrate their own festivals here, often with events that are genuinely open to visitors and worth going out of your way to see. The island is small enough that almost nothing is more than 90 minutes away, which means timing your trip around a festival is easier here than almost anywhere else.

Beyond the religious calendar, Mauritius has a growing events scene. Music festivals, food markets, horse racing at Champ de Mars, and seasonal beach parties all happen on a regular basis. Knowing what is on during your visit takes a little research but rewards you with experiences that feel nothing like standard tourism.

What are the main festivals in Mauritius?

• Maha Shivaratri (February/March) — The most visually spectacular festival on the island. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees walk barefoot to Grand Bassin carrying decorated clay pots on wooden frames called kanvars. The mountain procession is unlike anything else in the Indian Ocean region.
• Chinese New Year (January/February) — Celebrated with dragon dances and firecrackers in Port Louis Chinatown. Festive and genuine rather than performed for tourists.
• Holi (March) — The festival of colours celebrated with powder, music and dancing. Very inclusive and visitors are always welcomed.
• Eid ul-Fitr (date varies) — The end of Ramadan, celebrated with prayer and feasting. The atmosphere in Muslim neighbourhoods of Port Louis during this period is warm and communal.
• Divali (October/November) — The festival of lights transforms homes and public spaces with oil lamps and candles. A beautiful, quiet festival best experienced by spending an evening in a local neighbourhood.
• Cavadee (January/February) — A Tamil Hindu festival where devotees carry wooden arches decorated with flowers and peacock feathers. Physically remarkable and open to respectful observers.

What other events happen regularly?

• Horse Racing at Champ de Mars — The oldest racing track in the southern hemisphere. Race days between May and November are social events attended by Mauritians from every background. Entrance is free for most meetings.
• Port Louis Waterfront events — The Caudan Waterfront hosts outdoor concerts, cultural shows and food festivals throughout the year.
• Sega music evenings — Sega is the traditional music of Mauritius, rhythmic and rooted in Creole heritage. The evenings featuring real musicians rather than choreographed floor shows are the ones worth attending.

Tips for attending festivals

• Dress modestly at religious events. Shoulders and knees covered is a good rule.
• Ask before photographing people during ceremonies.
• Arrive early for procession events as good spots fill quickly.
• Most festivals are free and publicly accessible.
• Roads near major events can be significantly slower than usual.