Fiche festival
Africa
Lamu Cultural Festival
Traditional and popular parties · Lamu, Kenya
Dates
Last known edition: 23rd, November 20-22, 2025 — edition 2026 to be confirmed; usual period: November
Venue
Lamu, Kenya
Genres
Traditional and popular holidays
The festival
On the island of Lamu, in the old Swahilia city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Lamu Cultural Festival is beating the heart of the Kenyan coast every November. The Lamu County Government, which organizes the event, honours traditional dances, dhows, swimming and canoeing races, and the flavours that tell the intangible heritage of the county.
It is a festival of encounters between the communities of the archipelago, where Swahilia maritime culture is transmitted in music, poetry and crafts. The 22nd edition was held from November 28 to 30, 2024; no 2027 edition is yet announced.
Good to know
22nd edition: 28-30 November 2024 (Lamu County).