Art, Culture and Events in Mauritius
Mauritius has a lively cultural calendar, with music festivals, light shows, art exhibitions and religious celebrations throughout the year. Here are some of the best, plus tips to help you plan your visit around them.
Music and live shows
- Festival Kreol: a celebration of creole culture, music and dance, usually held late in the year.
- Sega evenings: hotels and bars across the island host live sega.
- Fete de la Musique: a free music celebration in June.
Light and art
- Porlwi by Light: a festival that brings lights and art installations to Port Louis streets.
- Galleries and craft markets: local painters and craftspeople show their work in Port Louis and the north.
Religious and cultural celebrations
Divali, Maha Shivaratri, Cavadee, Eid, Chinese Spring Festival and Easter are all celebrated across the island. See our guide to Mauritian culture.
Planning tips
- Check dates, because many events move each year.
- Book hotels early for major festivals.
- Ask your hotel or our team for current event listings.
Where to hear sega
Sega, the traditional music and dance of Mauritius, is performed at many hotels during weekly Creole evenings. For a more local experience, look for community events, beach parties and concerts, especially around 1 February, when the abolition of slavery is commemorated. In 2014, traditional Mauritian sega was added to UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.
Art and museums
- The Blue Penny Museum at the Caudan Waterfront, with art and rare stamps.
- Small galleries in Port Louis, Grand Baie and Moka that show local painters and sculptors.
- Craft markets, such as the Caudan craft market, for model ships, basketry and textiles.
Nightlife
Grand Baie is the main nightlife centre, with bars and clubs, especially at weekends. Flic en Flac has a relaxed beach bar scene. Most hotels have bars and evening entertainment, and Port Louis is quieter at night outside special events.
Horse racing at Champ de Mars
Champ de Mars in Port Louis is one of the oldest racecourses in the southern hemisphere, dating from 1812. Race days, usually on Saturdays during the season, are a lively social event with a big local crowd.
Book it with Plan Mauritius
These experiences can be booked through us, with transfers added if you need them:
- Special Events & Festivals in Mauritius
- Shopping in Mauritius – shopping and craft markets
Frequently asked questions
When is Festival Kreol?
It is usually held in the second half of the year, but dates vary, so check in advance.
Is there nightlife in Mauritius?
Yes, especially in Grand Baie, where there are bars, restaurants and clubs.
Are events free?
Some are, others require tickets.
Where can I see a sega show?
Most large hotels hold a sega evening once a week. Ask us which nights at your hotel.
Is the horse racing season all year?
No, it runs for part of the year, usually from about March to December. We check the race dates for you.
Want this planned around your dates?
Tell us when you are travelling and who is coming. We will build a day-by-day plan with hotels, transfers and activities, and send you a clear price.
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