Festivals

Holidays and festivals in Djibouti are observed with zeal. Many of these cultural events, such as Islamic and Christian holidays, are founded on religious traditions and observances. Ramadan and Christmas are important holidays, and Independence Day is a big one, too, with plenty of customs, singing and dancing, and lots of food.

According to the lunar calendar, the dates of Islamic festivities change every year. New Year's Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, and Christmas are all fixed holidays. Djibouti celebrates New Year's Day with great zeal. Schools and companies are closed, and everyone dresses up for the occasion. New Year's Eve celebrations take place all around the world and go till dawn.

Every year on June 27, Djibouti commemorates its independence. The anniversary honors the country's independence from France and celebrates the finest of the country's traditions. Expect loud and colorful themed parades (which vary from year to year), as well as speeches from dignitaries.

In the middle of December, there is a particular music festival called Fest'Horn. This regional event, which features performances by musicians from many genres, was designed to attract global attention to music from the Horn of Africa.