Festivals in Maldives

Festivals

Season or date: July 26

National ceremony celebrating independence in 1965. Military parades and traditional dances are held in the capital.

Season or date: November 11

Commemorating the transition to a republic in 1968. Presidential speeches and cultural events are held.

Season or date: Hijri calendar 3rd month, 1st day

Historic commemoration celebrating the repulsion of Portugal in 1558. Traditional drum performance Bodu Beru resonates.

Season or date: Hijri calendar 10th month, 1st day for 3 days

One of Islam''s largest festivals celebrating the end of Ramadan with family visits and feasts.

Season or date: Around Hijri calendar 12th month, 10th day

Religious event where livestock is sacrificed and shared with the less fortunate. Holidays last 5-7 days.

Season or date: Hijri calendar 3rd month, 12th day

Celebration of Prophet Muhammad''s birth. Quran recitations and charity activities are held.

Season or date: Before Ramadan

Picnic festival celebrating the arrival of the fasting month. People bring food and gather at beaches until dawn.

Season or date: Around April

Regional cultural festival in Baa Atoll with traditional dances and food stalls.