Lamu Cultural Festival is a three-day event organized by the County Government of Lamu, to promote and preserve the Swahili culture of Lamu Island. The festival is held annually in November and attracts visitors from all over the world to experience the rich cultural heritage of Lamu. The dates of this year’s is from 30th November to 2nd December.
The festival features a variety of activities and performances, including:
- Dhow sailing races: Dhows are traditional Swahili sailing boats that have been used for centuries for trade and transportation. During the festival, dhow races are held in the Lamu harbor, offering visitors a chance to see these beautiful boats in action.
- Donkey races: Donkey races are another popular event at the festival. These races are a fun and lighthearted way to experience Swahili culture.
- Traditional henna paintings: Henna painting is a popular art form in Swahili culture. During the festival, visitors can get traditional henna paintings done on their hands and feet.
- Poetry readings and music performances: Swahili poetry and music are an important part of Swahili culture. During the festival, there are numerous poetry readings and music performances held throughout Lamu Town.
- Competitive Bao games: Bao is a traditional Swahili board game that is similar to mancala. During the festival, there are competitive Bao games held with prizes for the winners.
In addition to these activities, the festival also features a variety of food stalls and vendors selling traditional Swahili handicrafts. Visitors can sample delicious Swahili cuisine and purchase souvenirs to take home with them.
The Lamu Cultural Festival is a wonderful opportunity to learn about and experience the rich cultural heritage of Lamu Island. If you are planning a trip to Lamu, be sure to check the dates for the festival and plan your trip accordingly.
