Thaipoosam Cavadee (February 1, 2026)

A spectacular Tamil festival during which devotees honor the god Muruga after ten days of prayer and fasting. The faithful carry flower-adorned wooden structures called kavadi, and some perform impressive penitential rituals. The processions make their way to local Tamil temples in an atmosphere of intense spirituality.

Maha Shivaratri (February 15, 2026)

A major hindu festival during which tens of thousands of pilgrims dressed in white make their way to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao) for prayers and ritual ablutions. This spiritual and cultural event transforms the island for several days. The faithful carry kanwar, arches decorated with flowers and mirrors, and sometimes walk barefoot for dozens of kilometers. To learn more about this pilgrimage, see our complete guide to Maha Shivaratree 2026.

Chinese New year (February 17, 2026)

A joyous and colourful celebration marking the beginning of the Chinese lunar year, the Year of the Horse. The festivities take place in the island's Chinatowns, particularly in Port Louis: parades of dragons and lions, firecrackers, martial arts shows, traditional music concerts and Chinese food stalls.

Rang Barse Festival (February 28, 2026)

Mauritius' largest color festival takes place annually at the Domaine de Rose Belle, a few days before Holi. The public is invited to experience a unique collective event, driven by music, movement, and clouds of colored powder. The event attracts several thousand participants and offers a festive and organized alternative to the traditional Holi street celebrations.

Holi (March 3 And 4, 2026)

Holi is a Hindu festival of colors during which participants joyfully throw colored powders at each other, celebrating the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. The day before (March 3), ritual fires (Holika Dahan) are lit. On March 4, the festivities begin early in the morning and continue until early afternoon, particularly in Port Louis, Quatre Bornes, and Phoenix. Holi is not an official public holiday in Mauritius, but the celebrations are widely observed. Discover our holi guide to Mauritius.

Ougadi (March 19, 2026)

Celebrated by the Telugu community, Ugadi marks the beginning of the new year and symbolically represents the day of the creation of the world. Houses are cleaned and decorated with garlands of mango leaves and rangoli. Traditional dishes are prepared and religious ceremonies are held in temples.

Eid-ul-Fitr (March 21, 2026, subject to change)

Celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan, this festive day brings Mauritian Muslims together at the mosque, dressed in new clothes. Afterwards, they gather with their families, exchange gifts, and enjoy the traditional biryani, which is also shared with friends, neighbors, and those less fortunate. The exact date is subject to confirmation as it depends on the visibility of the moon.

Father Laval Pilgrimage (September 8 and 9, 2026)

Although it is not an official public holiday, this pilgrimage is the most important religious event in Mauritius. Every year, on the night of September 8-9, tens of thousands of Mauritians of all faiths converge on the shrine of Blessed Father Jacques-Désiré Laval in Sainte-Croix, near Port Louis.

Father Laval, a French missionary who arrived in Mauritius in 1841, dedicated 23 years of his life to freed slaves and the poorest members of society. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1979, he is known as "the Apostle of Mauritius." The pilgrimage commemorates the anniversary of his death on September 9, 1864.

The pilgrimage actually takes place throughout September, but reaches its peak on the night of the 8th to the 9th. Processions depart from various points on the island, notably from the Port Louis Cathedral, to reach the sanctuary. Open-air masses are celebrated every two hours on September 9th, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pilgrims come to pray before the tomb where Father Laval's body rests. This gathering transcends religious and ethnic divisions, illustrating Mauritian intercommunal harmony.

Ganesh Chaturthi (September 15, 2026)

This Hindu festival celebrates the birth of Ganesh, the elephant-headed god, deity of wisdom and protector who removes obstacles. After days of fasting, devotees of the Marathi community parade through the streets with richly decorated statues of Ganesh to immerse them in a river, lake, or the sea, accompanied by prayers and devotional songs.

Diwali (November 8, 2026)

The Hindu festival of lights, celebrated with thousands of oil lamps (diyas) and fireworks illuminating the entire island, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Houses, gardens, and streets are adorned with luminous decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. It is a time for sharing, with Mauritians from all communities participating in the festivities.

Constance Culinary Festival (March 13-21, 2026)

Formerly known as the Bernard Loiseau Culinary Festival, this major gastronomic event in the Indian Ocean takes place every March at the Constance Belle Mare Plage and the Constance Prince Maurice. For this 19th edition, Michelin-starred chefs, internationally renowned pastry chefs, and sommeliers compete in several competitions (culinary trophy, pastry, sommelier, table setting) in pairs with Mauritian chefs from the Constance hotels. The festival also offers exceptional dinners and masterclasses available by reservation.

MAMA JAZ (April 1-30, 2026)

The only jazz and creative music festival in the Southern Hemisphere to span an entire month. For its 11th edition, themed "Natural Intelligence," MAMA JAZ offers five Grand Concerts on Wednesday evenings at the Galerie du Génie in Port Louis, free Sunday events called "Park La Mi Fa," and the celebration of International Jazz Day on April 30th under the auspices of UNESCO. The festival features Mauritian and international artists, blends ticketed and free concerts, and broadcasts its "Minit Mazik" (mini-music videos) on national television and social media throughout the month.

Ferney Ti-Bazar (May 3, 2026)

This eco-friendly craft market is held several times a year in the former ferney Factory and on the lawn opposite it. the may 3, 2026 Edition brings Together around thirty exhibitors selected for their environmental commitment: local Food products, agroecologically grown vegetables, handcrafted creations, and mauritian know-how. free and open To all, from 10 a.m. To 3 P.m. A friendly gathering in a green setting, in partnership with the artisans Lokal Platform.

European Film Festival (May 3-30, 2026)

For its 6th edition, the European Film Festival offers around ten open-air screenings of European films, spread across all weekends in May in various public spaces on the island (Château de Labourdonnais, Tamarin and Mont Choisy beaches, Bagatelle, Caudan, etc.). Organized by the Delegation of the European Union to Mauritius in partnership with the French Institute, the event is free and open to all. A wonderful opportunity to discover European art-house cinema in exceptional settings.

Bread festival (May 2026, Dates to be confirmed)

In May, the Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis hosts the Bread Festival. This event showcases the craft of baking, bread artisans, and pastry chefs. Exhibitions, tastings, and competitions featuring traditional Mauritian breads punctuate this delicious celebration.

Music Festival (June 21, 2026)

Celebrated annually on June 21st, this event of French origin takes on a local flavor in Mauritius with performances throughout the island. Professional and amateur artists perform in the streets, parks, and various cultural venues, offering an eclectic program accessible to all.

Bouzé Festival (August 13-16, 2026)

The major urban dance event in Mauritius, now in its fourth edition. For four days, dancers, judges, and coaches from twelve countries in the Indian Ocean and Africa come together to celebrate hip-hop, Afro, and street dance cultures. The program blends battles, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities: an Afro-contemporary masterclass led by Comorian choreographer Haitham Ben Ali will be held on Friday the 14th at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port Louis, followed by the Indian Ocean Championship final on Sunday the 16th at the French Institute of Mauritius in Rose Hill. Tickets for the final are Rs 300, free for children under 10, and sold only at the door. An event accessible to both the curious and experienced dancers, and one of the rare occasions to see the regional dance scene gathered in one place.

Chinatown Festival (September 26 and 27, 2026)

For two days, Port Louis' Chinatown becomes pedestrianized and comes alive to the rhythm of drums, Asian music, martial arts demonstrations, and dragon and lion dance performances. Stalls offer Chinese culinary specialties on every corner: zongi (rice balls), wontons, ah kien, and other delicacies. Organized by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Mauritius, this event attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year and is one of the best opportunities to discover Sino-Mauritian heritage. Note that the dates change from year to year: the 2026 dates were confirmed directly to us by the organizers. Our article dedicated to Chinatown Festival details the program and atmosphere of the neighborhood.

LA ISLA 2068 (October 9 And 10, 2026)

Founded in 2017 by La Isla Social Club, this contemporary music festival has established itself as the go-to event for discovering new talent from the Indian Ocean. For its eighth edition, it expands to two days for the first time and changes venue: head to Vivéa Business Park in Moka, on Friday, October 9th from 5 pm to midnight and Saturday, October 10th from noon to midnight. The site occupies the grounds of the former Mont Désert Alma sugar factory, with a large open-air stage in the garden, at the foot of the chimney, and a second covered stage under the La Piazza hall. The program features twenty-three concerts and eleven international headliners—including Superpoze and Mad Rey from France, Nathan Fake from the UK, several artists from Réunion and Madagascar, and, representing Mauritius, Désiré François accompanied by Cassiya. The festival is designed to be family-friendly: children's areas, live painting, eight food stalls and six bars, and free entry for children under 12. Prices start at Rs 800 for Friday and Rs 1,000 for Saturday, with a two-day pass available for Rs 1,500 on Otayo. Access is by car, with free, supervised parking available near the entrance. Please note: bringing your own food or drinks onto the site is prohibited.

Kreol International Festival (December 2026, dates to be confirmed)

This major event showcases the cultural diversity of Mauritius through music, dance, gastronomy, and the arts. The festival celebrates Mauritian Creole identity with séga concerts (traditional music inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list), slam and poetry sessions, theatre, craft exhibitions (vacoa basketry, wood carvings), and a focus on local cuisine with its specialties: rougaille, cari, and sweet potato cake. The festivities take place in several towns: Port Louis, Mahébourg, and sometimes Rodrigues.

Porlwi by Light (dates to be confirmed)

During this contemporary festival, the capital city of Port Louis is transformed into an open-air urban theatre where artists from all backgrounds perform to offer a unique spectacle. The concept was developed to celebrate the historic city of Port Louis through light installations, artistic performances, and immersive experiences blending visual arts and music. The 2025 edition was held in early December under the theme "Kreolite Nou Larmoni" (Creole Culture, We Are Harmonious).

Concerts and shows (all year round)

Throughout the year, a variety of concerts and shows are held at different venues across the island: The caudan Waterfront In port Louis, the Swami Vivekananda International Convention Centre (SVICC), the Trianon Convention Centre, as well as various hotels and Establishments. for a detailed overview, see our dedicated page. concerts in MauritiusThe Otayo.com platform also allows users to view the program and book online.

Royal Raid (May 9, 2026)

The first trail race in the history of mountain running in Mauritius, established in 2006, the Standard Bank Royal Raid takes runners through the southwest of the island, notably through the Yemen Nature Reserve and the Black River Gorges National Park, with the legendary ascent of the Parakeet Trail. Several distances are offered, from 10 km for beginners to 65 km with 2,350 meters of elevation gain for experienced trail runners. The event offers special packages including accommodation for runners coming from Europe.

Surf competitions (May to September 2026)

The Mauritian surfing season is in full swing between May and September. Local and international competitions are organized at renowned spots like Tamarin Bay and One Eye near Le Morne, attracting professional and amateur surfers in optimal swell conditions.

C-Kite Festival (June 26-30, 2026)

For its 5th edition, the C-Kite Festival transforms the beach at C Mauritius Palmar, on the east coast, into a giant playground for kitesurfing, kitefoiling, and wingfoiling enthusiasts. Co-organized by world champion Antoine Auriol, the event brings together international riders and local champions for five days of freestyle demonstrations, introductory sessions, Big Air competitions, and "Cinema Under the Stars" evenings. The festival's relaxed atmosphere makes it accessible to both experienced riders and those simply curious to admire the spectacular aerial maneuvers.

Dodo Trail (July 4th And 11th, 2026)

THE Dodo Trail returns for its 14th edition and has established itself as the unmissable trail Running Event in the indian Ocean. organised by the iBL group, This Competition, a member of The UTMB world series, attracts Nearly 3,000 Runners From mauritius, Reunion island, mainland France, madagascar, south Africa and elsewhere.

Saturday, july 4th marks the start with the morne Dash, A 3.3 km time Trial with 500 Meters of elevation gain on the steep slopes of le Morne Brabant, a uNESCO world heritage site. this event, Inspired by the alpine vertical kilometer, offers a spectacular introduction to the competition.

The main races will take place on Saturday, July 11th:

• Xtreme 50 km: 3,500 meters of elevation gain, crossing 10 private properties and climbing 7 peaks
• Squad 50 km: relay version for teams of four runners
• Trooper 25 km: 1,500 meters of elevation gain in the Black River Gorges National Park, passing by the Macchabée Kiosk and the Tamarin Tower
• Venture 10 km: 500 Meters of elevation gain, suitable for intermediate runners
• Rookie 5 km: accessible to beginners, through the Mauritian savannah

Registration is open on roag.org until June 1, 2026. The event takes place during the Mauritian southern winter, offering ideal climatic conditions for performance: cooler temperatures and dry air.

Caudan Night Run (August 22, 2026)

The first edition of this nighttime run is being held as part of the Caudan Waterfront's 30th anniversary celebrations. On Saturday evening, August 22nd, Port Louis will be explored in the cool evening air over two distances: the 10km race starts at 6:45 pm, and the 5km at 7:00 pm, with the start and finish lines at the Allée des Artistes in the Caudan Waterfront, which serves as the race village. The route connects the capital's major landmarks—Place d'Armes, the Company Gardens, the Citadel, the Kwan Tee Pagoda, and the Champ de Mars—amidst live music, performances, and light installations. The 5km race is open to runners aged 8 and up, and the 10km to those aged 12 and up, making it a family-friendly event as well as a sporting one, and a unique way to discover Port Louis after dark. Full details can be found in our article on [website/platform name]. the Caudan Night Run 2026.

CIEL Ferney Trail (September 12, 2026)

One of Mauritius' oldest and most popular trail races, held annually in the heart of the Ferney Valley in the southeast. The event brings together more than 3,500 runners on four courses suited to all levels: the Sunlife 5km Fun Run (accessible from age 6), the CIEL 10km, the Bank One 18km, and the C-Care 35km (with 1,500 meters of elevation gain for the most experienced runners). The trails wind through unspoiled natural landscapes: pastures, wooded hills, rivers, and fields of the southeast region. Registration at roag.org.

Moris Ride/Run x La Vache qui rit (October 10 And 11, 2026)

The first edition of a unique event in the Indian Ocean: two consecutive days, one on foot, the other by bike, in the west of the island. Saturday, October 10th, is dedicated to trail running, with 5, 12, or 20-kilometer races through the fields and woods of Cascavelle and Wolmar, including a section along the beach—a rare feature in Mauritius. The 20-kilometer race is also open to teams of four runners in a relay. Sunday, October 11th, is reserved for cyclists, licensed or not, with two routes of 69 or 89 kilometers, including the ascent of the Chamarel-Plaine Champagne pass or the Fantaisie-Plaine Champagne pass, with a return via La Brasserie, Henrietta, and Cascavelle. Each race is an independent event: participants can choose one or the other, or complete both days. The start and finish lines are located at SPARC in Cascavelle, where the event village is situated, making it a convenient meeting point for supporters and spectators. The race is organized by SM Events Limited, the Mauritian subsidiary of a Swiss cycling race organizer headed by former professional cyclist Sébastien Médan. Registration closes on September 30, 2026, at sportevents.mu and roag.org (or topchrono.run for participants from Réunion), and bib collection will take place on October 7 at the Decathlon store in Bagatelle.

Horse races at the Champ de Mars (all year round)

L'champ de Mars racecourse the Port Louis racecourse, inaugurated on June 25, 1812, is the oldest racecourse in the Southern Hemisphere still in operation and the second oldest in the world. The racing season runs from late March to early December, primarily on weekends. It is a very popular social event for Mauritians of all backgrounds, where all walks of life mingle in a convivial atmosphere: family bets, picnics, and passionate discussions about horses.

Big game fishing competitions (dates To be confirmed)

Sport fishing enthusiasts flock to the big game fishing competitions held off the coast of Mauritius. Participants attempt to catch marlin, tuna, and other large fish in the waters of the Indian Ocean, renowned worldwide for this type of sport.

Mauritius Marathon (dates to be confirmed)

Mauritius hosts several running races throughout the year, including the international marathon which attracts runners from all over the world. These events take place in exceptional settings, along the coast or through the island's lush landscapes, with local food stalls, concerts and entertainment that transform each competition into a community celebration.

Commemoration of the abolition of slavery (February 1, 2026)

A solemn day commemorating the official abolition of Slavery in Mauritius In 1835. ceremonies are held throughout the island, notably At le morne, a uNESCO world heritage site that served as a refuge for runaway Slaves. concerts and cultural events pay tribute to the victims of slavery and celebrate freedom.

National holiday (March 12, 2026)

Mauritius celebrates its independence, gained in 1968, and its attainment of republic status in 1992 with parades, concerts, and fireworks. A large official ceremony is held in Port Louis at the Champ de Mars, the very place where the Mauritian flag was first raised on March 12, 1968. It is a day of national pride when all Mauritians celebrate their shared heritage.

Chinatown festival (April 2026, Dates to be confirmed)

For two days in April, Port Louis' Chinatown becomes pedestrianized and comes alive with the rhythm of drums, Asian music, martial arts demonstrations, and dragon and lion dance performances. Stalls offer Chinese culinary specialties on every corner: zongi (rice balls), wontons, ah kien, and other delicacies.

Dragonboat Festival (dates to be confirmed)

At the Caudan Waterfront, teams of more than 25 people compete on the water aboard traditional dragon-shaped boats. This race pays homage to the Chinese poet Qu Yuan. The colorful boats, adorned with dragon heads, sail to the rhythm of drums in a festive atmosphere.

Arrival of hired workers (November 2, 2026)

This day commemorates the arrival of Indian indentured laborers in Mauritius from 1834 onwards. It recognizes the contribution of these workers to the building of modern Mauritian society. Official and cultural ceremonies are held at Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Port Louis.

The exact dates of some religious events may vary depending on the lunar calendar. It is advisable to check the precise dates as the event approaches on official Mauritian tourism websites or with your accommodation. For more information, see our complete guide to public holidays in Mauritius in 2026.

For sporting events, festivals, and concerts, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially for popular events. The Otayo.com platform is the leading event ticketing service in Mauritius and offers a wide selection of events with secure online booking.

During public holidays and major religious celebrations, many shops and services may be closed. Plan accordingly and check the opening hours of the places you wish to visit.

Most public celebrations are open to everyone and offer a unique opportunity to experience the authentic Mauritian culture. Respect local traditions, dress modestly for religious events, and always ask permission before photographing participants at ceremonies.

What are the must-see events in Mauritius in 2026?

Major events include Maha Shivaratri (February 15) with the great pilgrimage to Grand Bassin, Chinese New Year in Port Louis (February 17), National Day at Champ de Mars (March 12), MAMA JAZ throughout April, the Royal Raid (May 9), the C-Kite Festival (June 26-30), the Dodo Trail (July 4 and 11), Ganesh Chaturthi (September 15), Diwali (November 8) and the Kreol International Festival in December.

Are religious events open to non-practitioners?

Yes, most public celebrations in Mauritius are open to everyone, regardless of the visitor's religion. However, it is important to respect traditions: dress modestly, remain silent during prayers, and ask permission before photographing participants in ceremonies.

How to book tickets for concerts and festivals in Mauritius?

Otayo.com is the leading event ticketing website in Mauritius. It offers a wide selection of events with secure online booking. For the most popular festivals, it is recommended to book several weeks in advance.

Can the dates of religious holidays change?

Yes, some religious holidays are based on the lunar calendar and their dates can vary. This is particularly true of Eid-ul-Fitr, the date of which depends on the visibility of the moon. It is advisable to check the exact dates on official sources as the event approaches.

Is there a specific dress code for attending Maha Shivaratri or other Hindu ceremonies?

For Maha Shivaratri, pilgrims traditionally wear white. While not mandatory for visitors, adhering to this custom is a sign of respect. More generally, shoulders and knees must be covered to enter temples, and shoes must be removed upon entering sacred sites.

What is the best time to attend the most events?

February is particularly busy with Thaipoosam Cavadee, Maha Shivaratri, Chinese New Year, and Rang Barse, all within a few weeks. The September-November period also features several major events: Père Laval, Ferney Trail, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Diwali. December, with the Kreol International Festival, brings the year to a spectacular close.