Best Things to do in Seychelles, Festivals and Events
Explore the top things to do in Seychelles. Discover vibrant festivals, stunning events, and unique local experiences in this tropical paradise.
Embark on an extraordinary journey to Seychelles, a tropical paradise where untouched nature, turquoise seas, and pristine beaches await, as we highlight the best things to do in Seychelles during your holiday. Explore vibrant markets, savor mouthwatering Creole food, and witness the enchanting rhythms of traditional music and dance as we unveil the wonders of Seychelles culture, traditions, and captivating events. Join us as we delve deeper into the most exciting events of the year, as well as tips that will help you discover the best of Seychelles.
Bazare Domaine at Au Cap (Every third Saturday)
Every third Saturday, immerse yourself in the heart of Seychelles’ cultural and artistic scene at the Bazare Domaine in Au Cap. Organized by the Seychelles Heritage Foundation and the National Arts & Crafts Council, this beloved monthly event breathes life into Seychellois culture and artistry.
From 10 am to 6 pm, Au Cap transforms into a vibrant cultural showcase, where captivating beats of Seychellois folk music and dance resonate against the backdrop of lush landscapes.
Explore the Bazare Domaine and uncover a variety of food stalls that showcase Seychellois delicacies. Each stall shares a unique narrative of Seychellois tradition and gastronomy, presenting traditional Creole dishes and refreshing tropical fruit. Let your imagination wander as you discover the flavors of Seychelles’ culinary heritage.
The Bazare Domaine is not just about food and dance; it’s also a haven for local masters. Explore stalls filled with handcrafted souvenirs, showcasing Seychellois artistry and craft. Find a special memento of your Seychelles trip or a unique gift in this extraordinary marketplace. The Bazare Domaine takes place every third Saturday of the month, promising a great chance to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of Seychelles.
FetAfrik (June 25 – 27)
Celebrate Seychelles’ African roots at the annual FetAfrik Festival, a grand spectacle that illuminates Mahé Island every May 25th. FetAfrik offers an immersive journey through Seychelles’ rich cultural tapestry, where music, dance, art, and gastronomy merge in extraordinary ways.
This vibrant festival unites artists and musicians from across Africa, showcasing their rhythmic performances and soulful beats that embody the profound African influence on Seychellois culture.
Indulge in culinary specialties that offer a taste of the islands’ heritage, with each dish combining African flavors and Creole nuances.
The dance performances exude energy and emotion, reflecting the spirit of Africa, while diverse artistic exhibitions by painters, photographers, and artists narrate captivating stories of Africa’s impact on the islands.
Join the celebration on June 25th, when the enchanting surroundings of Seychelles come alive with vibrant rhythms, flavors, movements, and visuals.
Regatta 2023 at Beau Vallon (August 25 – 27, 2023)
In Seychelles’ event calendar, the Regatta Music Festival 2023 stands out as an exceptional three-day voyage filled with captivating melodies and coastal allure. From August 25 to 27, 2023, music enthusiasts can revel in this festival held on the sandy expanse of Beau Vallon beach.
The Regatta Music Festival weaves together a rich tapestry of local and international music, drawing a diverse global audience to experience a myriad of musical landscapes. Artists representing various genres converge to create an eclectic symphony of natural and man-made sounds that harmonize with the rhythmic waves of the ocean.
Numerous food stalls at the festival offer a delightful taste of Seychelles cuisine, each presenting a distinct culinary experience.
Beyond its musical offerings, Regatta 2023 serves as a platform for cultural exchange and a reflection of Seychelles’ vibrant community spirit. Set against a picturesque backdrop, the festival entices visitors year after year, immersing them in the celebration of music and community. Join us this August for a truly unique festival where the essence of Seychelles comes alive.
Katiti Seychelles: A Fusion of Styles (August 26, 2023)
On August 26, 2023, as part of the global Fashion Week circuit, Katiti Seychelles will mesmerize attendees with an unparalleled spectacle of fashion design and creative expression. This exceptional event embraces and champions diversity in all its manifestations.
At Katiti Seychelles, an amalgamation of local and international designers will converge to showcase their distinctive creations. Drawing inspiration from diverse cultural backgrounds and contemporary trends, their designs embody the multifaceted influences that define Seychelles.
What sets Katiti Seychelles apart is its celebration of diversity, not only in design but also in the inclusion of models. The runway at Katiti Seychelles becomes a testament to the beauty found in human diversity, featuring models of varying ages, heights, and sizes who confidently showcase the designers’ work.
Each model, with their unique style and personality, breathes life into the ensembles, resulting in a vibrant and dynamic fashion narrative that captivates the audience.
Yellowfin Tuna Cup (September 23, 2023)
The Yellowfin Tuna Cup, taking place on September 23, 2023, holds significant appeal for fishing enthusiasts worldwide. Set in the crystal-clear waters of Seychelles, this full-day tournament revolves around capturing the heaviest yellowfin tuna.
The tournament kicks off at Eden Marina, where participants gear up for the competition. Throughout the day, the waters come alive with the excitement as anglers strive to catch the robust yellowfin tuna.
More than a mere competition, the Yellowfin Tuna Cup promotes responsible fishing practices. All billfish caught during the tournament are released back into the sea, reflecting Seychelles’ commitment to preserving marine life.
The event concludes with a weigh-in at the Marine Charter, determining the angler who has caught the heaviest fish. The Yellowfin Tuna Cup exemplifies Seychelles’ reverence for marine life and fair competition.
Creole Festival (Throughout October)
Creole, more than just a language, represents the essence of Seychelles—a fusion of cultures and traditions born from centuries of exploration, colonization, and the exchange between diverse ethnic groups. This amalgamation has become the very soul of the Seychellois people, embodying their history, resilience, and vibrant spirit.
Every October, the Creole Festival takes center stage, a month-long celebration that stands as one of Seychelles’ most significant cultural events. This year marks its 38th edition, captivating the islands from October 8th to 31st with a plethora of captivating activities that showcase the uniqueness of Creole culture.
The grand festivities commence on October 26th at Beau Vallon, known for its lively ambiance and awe-inspiring vistas. For a week, Beau Vallon transforms into a vibrant hub of Creole revelry, offering a diverse range of activities catering to all ages and interests.
Among the festival’s highlights is the Kreol “Moutya”, a dynamic event blending contemporary beats with traditional Creole music, resulting in a distinctive rhythm that sets everyone’s feet in motion.
Attendees will also have the chance to indulge in a myriad of Creole culinary delights. From zesty curries to freshly harvested seafood, the festival’s food offerings reflect the diverse gastronomic influences that have shaped Creole cuisine.
Furthermore, the Creole Festival is an enchanting feast for the senses, featuring traditional exhibitions and dances that showcase the depth of Creole culture. These captivating activities offer both an opportunity to learn and a chance to partake in traditions passed down through generations.
The festival extends an invitation to all, encouraging them to immerse themselves in and appreciate the Creole way of life, making October an unforgettable month in Seychelles.
Ocean Festival and Fisherman’s Day (End of November)
As an archipelago nation, Seychelles shares an intimate bond with the ocean. This profound connection is celebrated at the end of November during the Ocean Festival and Fisherman’s Day, held at the picturesque Beau Vallon Bay, famous for its mesmerizing beauty and abundant marine life.
The festival aims to shine a spotlight on Seychelles’ diverse maritime heritage, offering a range of activities and exhibits designed to educate people about the rich underwater world surrounding the islands. The event serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of marine life and the necessity to preserve it for future generations.
Fisherman’s Day holds a special place within the festival, honoring those who earn their livelihood from the sea. It is a day to acknowledge the tireless efforts of local fishermen and celebrate the bountiful resources that the ocean bestows upon Seychelles.
Situated just a short stroll away from Fisherman’s Cove, this festival emphasizes the understanding and reverence for the ocean, which plays a vital role in Seychelles’ existence. The Ocean Festival and Fisherman’s Day serve as a poignant reminder of this fact, showcasing the significance of Seychelles’ marine heritage.
Seychelles Fashion Week (November 24 – December 2, 2023)
From November 24th to December 2nd, 2023, the enchanting shores of Seychelles become a global stage for the Seychelles Fashion Week. This mesmerizing week-long affair attracts fashion enthusiasts from every corner of the world, uniting creativity, culture, and the harmonious blend of styles that define Seychelles.
Taking place at a resort neighboring Fisherman’s Cove, this prestigious event revolves around the theme “Alluring Moment.” Seychelles Fashion Week mirrors the magnitude and professionalism of fashion weeks held in major capitals, providing a platform for both local and international designers to showcase their ingenuity.
Seychelles Fashion Week is a grand celebration of style and creativity, where cultures converge, and the global fashion industry truly shines.
Billfish Challenge (November 25, 2023)
Marking an important milestone in Seychelles’ marine calendar, the Billfish Challenge takes place on November 25, 2023. This exhilarating full-day fishing event attracts participants from around the globe to the abundant waters of Seychelles in pursuit of the mighty billfish, a formidable predator renowned for its remarkable strength.
The Billfish Challenge is not only a display of angling prowess but also a testament to Seychelles’ commitment to sustainable fishing practices. All billfish caught during the tournament are released back into the sea, reflecting Seychelles’ unwavering dedication to the conservation of marine life.
As the day draws to a close, the excitement shifts to the Marine Charter, where each hard-fought catch is meticulously weighed to determine the ultimate victor. This thrilling competition showcases Seychelles’ longstanding maritime heritage and deep reverence for the ocean, providing an opportunity for people to come together, revel in the joy of fishing, and pay homage to the bountiful treasures of the sea.
In conclusion, Seychelles’ vibrant cultural scene is as dazzling as its natural beauty, the things to do in Seychelles go far beyond its pristine beaches. The island’s events and festivals offer a unique way to dive into its rich heritage. So let these celebrations guide your journey, and uncover a side of Seychelles that resonates with joy, unity, and an enduring love for life.
