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, often with events that are genuinely open to visitors and worth going out of your way for. The island is small enough that almost nothing is more than 90 minutes away, which makes timing your trip around a festival easier here than almost anywhere else.

The Main Festivals

• Maha Shivaratri (February/March) — The most visually spectacular event on the island. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees walk barefoot to Grand Bassin carrying decorated clay pots on wooden kanvar frames. The mountain procession is unlike anything else in the Indian Ocean. Completely free and open to respectful observers.
• Chinese New Year (January/February) — Dragon dances and firecrackers in Port Louis Chinatown. Festive and genuine rather than performed for tourists.
• Holi (March) — The festival of colours fills the air with powder, music and dancing. Very inclusive — 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 is warm and communal.
• Divali (October/November) — The festival of lights transforms homes and public spaces with oil lamps and candles. Best experienced by spending an evening in a local neighbourhood rather than on a resort beach.
• Cavadee (January/February) — Tamil Hindu festival where devotees carry elaborate wooden arches. Physically remarkable and open to respectful observers.

Other Events Worth Knowing About

Horse Racing at Champ de Mars

The oldest horse racing track in the southern hemisphere sits in the middle of Port Louis. Race days between May and November are social events attended by Mauritians from every background. The atmosphere is warm and the general admission is free for most meetings. One of the most genuinely local experiences available to visitors.

Sega Music Evenings

Sega is the traditional music of Mauritius — rhythmic, energetic and rooted in Creole heritage. Most hotels offer sega nights. The ones worth attending feature real musicians rather than choreographed floor shows. Ask locally which evenings are the real thing.

Port Louis Waterfront Events

The Caudan Waterfront hosts outdoor concerts, cultural shows and food festivals throughout the year. A good option for an evening in the capital without much planning required.

Tips for Attending Festivals