Events and festivals in Kenia

Events and festivals in

Kenia

Fiestas populares en Kenia

Kenia es un país rebosante de culturas, tradiciones y creencias. De eso se han encargado las diferentes etnias que conforman el país, que han sabido guardar muy bien su seña de identidad y que la muestran orgullosos a los viajeros a través de diferentes celebraciones. La música, los bailes y el color son algunos de los ingredientes esenciales.

También la gastronomía está muy presente, además de las competiciones deportivas. Debido a las diferentes creencias religiosas, en Kenia se celebran tanto las principales fiestas cristianas, como la Navidad o Pascua; como las musulmanas, donde parte de su población sigue a rajatabla el Ramadán. También es un país rico en historia donde ha tenido que lidiar con la ocupación británica, por lo que una de las fechas claves es el día de su independencia, el 12 de diciembre. No te pierdas el calendario de fiestas populares de Kenia para disfrutar los mejores eventos cuando viajes a Kenia.

Celebration Of The Sacrifice

Celebration Of The Sacrifice

Known by Muslims as Eid al Adha, this religious festival commemorates the will of Abraham to sacrifice his son before God and how God then gave Abraham a lamb to sacrifice instead. During the festivals, a live lamb is usually killed and it is one of the biggest festivals of Islam, celebrated across Kenya in Muslim communities.  

Jamhuri Day

Jamhuri Day

In Swahili, Jamhuri means Republic, and every year on December 12th, all of Kenya celebrates the commemoration of their independence from the United Kingdom, in 1963, and its constitution as a republic just one year later. A double celebration in which the Kenyans organize dances and traditional music concerts, as well as other cultural events.  

Lake Turkana Festival

Lake Turkana Festival

Celebrated on the shores of Lake Turkana, in Marsabit, this festival brings together the best culture and traditions of the different peoples that make up this region of northern Kenya. Over three days more than 14 ethnic groups present how they dress, the art they produce, their local gastronomy, their way of life and share their customs. It is one of the best opportunities to get to know the different tribes in this area of Kenya such as the Samburu, Turkana, Gabra, Borana and Konso, among others.  

Madaraka Day

Madaraka Day

Every year, on this day, the Kenyans celebrate their autonomy from the United States achieved on the 1st of June 1963, although independence was not achieved until December 12 of that same year. In its commemoration, in the big cities, there are parades, music and traditional dances.  

Maralal Camel Derby

Maralal Camel Derby

Celebrated in the Kenyan city of Maralal, this camel race is one of the most famous competitive event in the country. Riders from all over the world come to compete on different routes and levels and there are plenty of activites and gastronomic delights for spectators. Plus, the atmosphere is lively and colourful.

Nairobi International Jazz Festival

Nairobi International Jazz Festival

It is the largest jazz music festival in Kenya. It is organized in Nairobi the third week in February, so the date may vary according to the year. It brings some of the best artists from Kenya and different parts of the world together to create an unforgettable atmosphere and musical delights. Its success is so great that the tickets are usually sold out shortly after they go on sale.

Nairobi Restaurant Week

Nairobi Restaurant Week

For10 days, usually between the end of January and the beginning of February - dates may be altered depending on the year- many of Nairobi's restaurants offer amazing discounts on their varied menus. This week is ideal to try the Kenyan delicacies at the best price, sometimes restaurants even serve cocktails for free.  

Safari Rally

Safari Rally

The Safari Rally is the most important competition in Kenya. It has been celebrated since 1953 and the route includes neighboring countries such as Uganda and Tanzania. The extreme climate, the open stretches of road and dangerous obstacles such as the abundant Kenyan wildlife make it one of the toughest championships.