Festivals in Congo

Due to recent political turbulence, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has a very sparse calendar of events, with festivals few and far between. Most people do, however, observe a handful of national holidays.

These annual events allow visitors to immerse themselves in the customs and festivities of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Activities include theatre festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, and the annual Independence Day celebrations at the end of June. The Martyrs Stadium (Stade des Martyrs de Pentecost) in Kinshasa is a prominent sports arena that can comfortably seat 80,000 people for soccer matches, athletic activities, and concerts.

Besides, the Feux de Brazza is a prominent worldwide festival of traditional music held in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, since 2005. The event, which alternates with the Pan-African Music Festival (FESPAM), takes place every two years and promotes traditional cultural exchanges. The flames of the wood fire inaugurate the festivities and symbolize the ancestral tradition which must not be lost. The fires of Brazza must safeguard African cultural traditions and ensure that through this festival, future generations are the link that will continue to exist in this culture. It is a challenge to the younger generations who must feel involved and preserve as a jewel this culture of African music and dance.