20 Unmissable Festivals in Kenya: Your Ultimate 2024 Travel Guide!

Welcome to our blog post 20 Unmissable Festivals in Kenya: Your Ultimate 2024 Travel Guide! If you’re a traveller seeking unforgettable experiences and vibrant cultural celebrations, you’ve come to the right place.

20 Unmissable Festivals in Kenya

Kenya is a country rich in diverse traditions, and its festivals offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. In this guide, we will highlight twenty must-attend festivals that should be on every traveller’s radar.

Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with joy, music, dance, and unforgettable memories in one of Africa’s most beautiful countries. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Kenyan festivals!

1. Jamhuri Day

Source: KBC.co.ke

What is Jamhuri Day? It is one of Kenya’s holidays that honours both the nation’s independence from Britain in 1963 and its creation as a republic in 1964 The Swahili word “Jamhuri” means “republic” for this holiday, which is celebrated on December 12 every year. The 8 presidents of Kenya each give speeches at this key event. This event offers street parades, dances, fireworks, feasts, and more.

2. Beneath The Baobabs Festival 2024

Explore the allure of Kilifi’s Beneath the Baobabs Festival, formerly known as Kilifi New Year. This yearly event takes place above Takaungu Creek’s source in the baobab forest of Kilifi from December 30 to January 1.

It is an incredible time to enjoy various musical genres with thousands of other festival attendees, including Afro-House, Electronic Music, Hip Hop, and Drum and Bass. It is time to enjoy the essence of East Africa.

If you haven’t visited Kenya’s Kilifi, please do. It is an amazing place cut off from the rest of the world with affordable and beautiful beaches. Have a look at a short video I made in 2019.

3. Ride Africa Kenya: The Mara Calling

Source: rideafrica.org

This expert-led expedition takes you 310 miles through Kenya’s breathtaking wilderness.  You’ll experience shimmering lakes like Nakuru, Elementaita, and Naivasha.

Oh, and then the volcanic landscapes such as the infamous Hell’s Gate National Park and the sprawling savannas of the world-famous Maasai Mara. 

That’s not all, keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife sightings along this route. With the Kenyan Wildlife Service as a partner, you might just spot a zebra grazing or a majestic lion basking in the sun!

Join up to 60+ cyclists and challenge yourselves not just physically but also for a good cause. Did you know this event raises funds for Child.org, a charity dedicated to improving neonatal care in Kenya? 

Now you see, by participating, you’re not only giving countless newborns a fighting chance but also having fun. But there’s a catch, you must apply to participate in this festival.

4. Lamu Cultural Festival

Come and immerse yourself in Swahili heritage at the vibrant Lamu Festival! This festival is held annually in late November and is a 3-day extravaganza in celebration of everything Lamu. Dive into the heart of Lamu’s culture with a unique blend of races and competitions.

Do you think you have what it takes to weave the most intricate henna designs? Or maybe you have a knack for composing captivating Swahili poetry? Put your talents and skills to the test in these exciting contests! There’s more – cheer on the daring dhow captains in a sailing race. Or maybe witness the legendary Bao competition, a game older than time itself.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Indulge in the island’s mouthwatering cuisines. Oh, and there’s losing yourself in the infectious rhythm of Lamu’s music. This is a spectacle you won’t forget!

5. Nairobi Colour Festival 2024

Source: www.facebook.com/Colourfestke

Kenya’s Colour Festival is a colourful celebration of inclusivity, variety, and harmony. Going down on April 20th and 21st at Carnivore Grounds, the event intends to unite individuals from many backgrounds for a day of art, music, cuisine, and, of course, the colour that unites it all.

This celebration involves individuals hurling powdered paint at one another. Everyone is treated equally for a single day, regardless of gender, caste, or religion.

6. Mombasa Carnival

This is a networking opportunity for entrepreneurs and company owners. It is a fantastic forum for raising brand awareness, exchanging knowledge, unlearning certain things, gaining fresh insights for new ventures, and forming deep connections.

This event will happen on June 1-2, in Lower Donholm, Eastlands, Nairobi. Expect to be served excellent and delectable meals as you converse.

8. RAHA Festival 2024

RAHA Fest (2024). Africa’s most anticipated music, art, and cultural extravaganza proudly announces Nigerian sensation Davido as its headline act.

Set at Uhuru Gardens on March 30th and 31st, 2024, the festival promises an unforgettable fusion of music, art, and culture. With a diverse lineup, art installations, culinary delights, and workshops, RAHA Fest unites in celebrating African creativity and diversity.

9. Maralal International Camel Derby

The Maralal International Camel Derby is mainly a sports event featuring camel races. This adrenaline rush event is held in Maralal town in Samburu County, approx 70 kilometres from Samburu National Reserve.

Apart from the camel races, there are also vibrant cultural activities, like dance performances and displays of local arts and crafts.

Now, if you plan to visit Samburu National Reserve this August, consider going to experience this festival. It is an annual opportunity to immerse yourself in the local Samburu culture and observe the people and their lifestyles. 

10. Kenya Music Festival 2024

The 2024 Kenya Music Festival, showcasing student talent in music, dance, and elocution, will be held at Moi Girls High School in Eldoret from August 3 to 14, 2024.

First established as a primary school in the late 20s to cater for European settlers, Moi Girls School, named after former Kenyan President Daniel Arap Moi, has shaded its colonial past to become a premier institution of learning known nationally and in the region.

The Kenya Music Festival, organised by the Ministry of Education, will see students from various age groups display their skills under the theme of Talent Development For the Growth of the Creative Economy. This helps to highlight the economic potential of the creative sector. The festival guidelines have been uploaded by the ministry for public access.

Professor Ngala, festival chairman, emphasises the role of performing arts in enriching culture and fostering holistic development.

Suffice to note that the festival venue, Eldoret City, is home to Iten, the training ground where the world’s gods of marathons are made!

Located in the Uasin Gishu Plateau, with an elevation of over 2000 metres asl, Eldoret is a perfect holiday destination with amazing vistas. With a subtropical highland climate, it was the centre of British occupation including the Boers who settled in the area until most were kicked out by the Mau Mau rebellion.

In your trip to support your daughters at Moi Girls, take time to enjoy what Eldoret has to offer and support local businesses.

11. Maasai Cultural Festival

Source: kenyanews.go.ke

Did you know that The Maasai Cultural Festival happens annually during the mid-year and coincides with the annual wildebeest migration? This 4-day festival brings together 12,000+ members from 18 Maa-speaking communities from Kenya and Tanzania. 

Here, you’ll witness traditional dances, fashion, and music performances. And if you like, you can also participate in workshops to learn about their customs and way of life.

This festival is a celebration of the Maasai culture and it offers a unique glimpse into their traditions and beliefs. 

12. The Nairobi International Choral Festival 2024

Source: instagram.com/nairobi.choral.fest

The Nairobi International Choral Festival, to be held at The Dome, ASK Showground on April 28, 2024, is a vibrant family event showcasing remarkable choral performances by teen/youth choirs and ensembles.

Attendees can enjoy African-inspired outfits and performances by renowned choirs like The Detroit Youth Choir and The Redfourth Chorus. They also get to explore the African Market for shopping and cultural immersion. Join this fest for an unforgettable cultural experience!

13. Lake Turkana Cultural Festival

Did you know that the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival is a three-day Cultural Festival that incorporates cultural music, and traditional dances? They also have art, fun activities and exciting competitions and games. 

The event takes place in Loiyangalani on the southeastern Coast of Lake Turkana every June and is an excellent way to gain insight into Kenya’s culture and lifestyle.

The idea behind this festival was to boost tourism and turn the spotlight towards this neglected part of Northern Kenya.

You’ll meet people from Molo, Samburu, Rendile, Dasannach, Gabbra, Watta and various Turkana tribes.

14. Ingwe @60

Join the celebration of 60 years of AFC Leopards at the INGWE@60 Fan Fest! AFC Leopards is one of Kenya’s most iconic football clubs, known affectionately as “Ingwe.”

From noon onwards, ASK Showgrounds, Jamhuri Park, on March 30th, 2024, promises a vibrant fusion of football, Kenyan culture, delicious food, and non-stop excitement.

15. KIDSCON 2024

Children have a chance to enjoy an enriching experience at the Kids Convention by @Naiccon! This event will happen at The Junction Mall on April 20th, 2024, from 10:00 AM onwards, and it merges science, technology, and creativity to ignite young minds.

Engage in interactive activities, hands-on workshops, and exciting demonstrations designed to inspire curiosity and innovation. Do not miss this unforgettable journey into the realms of discovery and imagination!

16. Kakamega Bullfight

For several decades the Luhya community in Kakamega County have held an annual bullfighting competition that has attracted thousands of spectators from all over. Here’s how this works – two bulls fight against each other in a spirited fight that lasts between 5 to 30 minutes. 

These bulls are adequately fed and prepared for this occasion. If you find yourself in Kakamega, Kenya around October, head over to Ikolomani. Owners of the winning bull receive various monetary awards. 

And did I mention a prestigious social status that is maintained all year round? By the way, this event also includes cock fighting and the traditional Isikuti dance among other cultural activities. 

17. Rusinga Cultural Festival

The Rusinga Cultural Festival is held annually on the last Thursday and Friday before Christmas. This event is hosted by the Abasuba community who live on the eastern shores of Lake Victoria.

According to the United Nations, the Abasuba are clustered under the indigenous communities in Kenya that are currently on the verge of facing extinction.

This festival is held each year to help preserve their culture and educate people on who they are, and how to maintain peace and stability. Highlights of this wonderful festival include traditional attire, jewellery, pottery, the music and dance of the Abasuba, and wood carvings. 

18. The Kenya Food Event (KFE)

Source: kenyanfoodevent.com

KFE is the largest exhibition in the beverage and food industry in East Africa. This expo’s third edition will be held on September 3^rd-5^th, 2024, at Nairobi, Kenya’s Sarit Centre.

This provides a crucial forum for those in the company seeking new food producers, suppliers, and service providers to grow their operations.

It is an excellent opportunity to connect with essential market leaders, learn about opportunities in the sector, and interact with national and international brands.

19. Pre-Akoma Weekend East Africa Nairobi, Kenya

The Pre-Akoma Weekend East Africa in Nairobi is from April 26th to 28th, 2024. It is the inaugural stop on the Road to IADSF – International Akoma Dance Spirit Festival 2024.

It is an excellent time to immerse yourself in lively parties, insightful workshops, and a chance to win Full Passes to IADSF 2024 through exclusive lucky draws.  Join them in celebrating the vibrant culture of music and dance, uniting communities with the true spirit of Akoma.

20. Rift Valley Music Festival

Did you know that the Rift Valley Festival is one of East Africa’s largest annual 3-day music festivals?

So head over to the Fisherman’s Camp along the edge of Lake Naivasha to experience the best of this event.

Oh, and this festival was established in 2010 and has rapidly become a yearly event held in late August.

It also draws a diverse array of artists primarily from Kenya but the rest of East Africa and beyond are welcome. The festival encompasses not just music, but also offers food and drink stalls, a craft market and children’s activities.

21. Mashujaa Day

Source: National Council of NGOs

This is one of the most celebrated festivals in Kenya. Mashujaa Day, or Kenya’s Heroes Day, is a national holiday celebrating our country’s freedom fighters. 

Additionally, Mashujaa Day honours other individuals who have significantly contributed to our nation. For example, the president can reward those who have saved lives during calamities. It’s a time for Kenyans to unite as we honour those who have sacrificed for our country’s independence and progress.

Expect an atmosphere filled with:

• Patriotic parades: Watch military and civilian groups march through the streets, showcasing our pride and unity.
• Cultural performances: Enjoy our traditional dances, music, and other cultural displays to celebrate Kenya’s rich heritage.
• Speeches and tributes: Listen to inspiring speeches from government officials and other notable figures who pay homage to Kenya’s heroes. After all, that’s what the day is all about, no?

22. Dhow Festival

The Dhow Race is an upcoming annual event held in November on Lamu Island. Swahili people value this competition because it enhances and preserves the art of dhow sailing among us. This race accommodates up to 15 dhows or more.

Furthermore, this competition is a highlight of the Lamu calendar, attracting visitors from far and wide to witness dozens of dhows racing across the turquoise waters. This tradition celebrates the rich maritime heritage of the Swahili people and showcases their exceptional skill in crafting and sailing these iconic vessels.

Whether you’re a history buff, a sailing enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Lamu dhow race is an event you should not miss. 

23. Blankets and Wine Festival 

Blankets and Wine is Kenya’s premier music and art festival and it offers a relaxed atmosphere where families gather to enjoy live performances. This upcoming event is on 17th December at Laureate Gardens, within Moi International Sports Center Kasarani and tickets cost Ksh. 4500 per person.

The primary goal of this event is to discover new craft vendors, food, and new artists. Expect different artists to perform during this colourful event, making it lively and fun. This is a must-visit for lovers, families, and even singles. 

24. Lamu Yoga Festival 

The Lamu Yoga Festival is a five-day festival held on the islands of Shela and Manda in Lamu town. It started in 2014 to educate people around East Africa about yoga and its benefits.

The Shela and Manda islands are never crowded, with fewer people on the beach. The goal of this festival is to create awareness for yoga classes while enjoying a taste of Swahili culture. 

25. Safari Rally

The Safari rally takes place in Naivasha and was started in 1953 in honour of Queen  Elizabeth; today, it is part of the Kenyan culture. 

Fanatics travel from faraway countries to visit Naivasha and enjoy this safari rally. We all know a rally is all about high-speed racing on duty and muddy roads. You’ll also watch as several drivers put their driving skills to the test. 

So, if you’re an adrenalin junky and crave a ‘high-speed’ chase, Naivasha is the place to be. 

26. East Africa Ocean Festival 

Source: EAOF

East Africa Ocean Festival, is an ongoing festival which started on the 18th of October 2024 and will end on the 20th of Oct 2024. It is a three-day celebration of ocean sports. The Venues are Tudor, Junda, and Kibarani Creeks, and tickets which cost Ksh. 500 per person. 

The main focus of this event is to celebrate the maritime history of Mombasa town and East Africa at large. Hamisi Mwaguya, the co-founder and chairman of the Kenya Maritime Authority, emphasizes that the event will help both Mombasa locals and foreigners appreciate the beauty of blue waters.  

Attendees enjoyed several entertainments, such as swimming, kayak competitions, dhow racing, jet-ski competitions, mini-live concerts, sailing, and parades. Also, there is mangrove restoration, beach clean-up, understanding photography exhibitions, traditional dance, Swahili art, etc. 

Bottom Line

In 2024, don’t miss out on Kenya’s 26 unmissable festivals and conferences in Kenya! From vibrant cultural celebrations to electrifying music events, this year presents the perfect opportunity for travellers to immerse themselves in the rich and diverse tapestry of Kenyan culture. These are but, a few of the current and past festivals in Kenya.  

Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the magic of these festivals firsthand. Don’t let 2024 pass you by – pack your bags and join in the unforgettable festivities that await you in Kenya! Find time, hit the road and enjoy our culture, adrenaline-rush activities and much more.

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