Festivals

Fête de la Musique

Season or date: June 21

Music festival held simultaneously with mainland France. Central Nouméa becomes a stage with free concerts until late night.

Kanak Culture Week

Season or date: Late September

Organized by Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre. Features traditional dance, crafts, and land mythology.

Lagoon Festival

Season or date: October

Marine carnival advocating for UNESCO World Heritage lagoon conservation. Includes sailing races and environmental workshops.

Nouméa Carnival

Season or date: Early November

Colorful parade featuring floats and samba groups through the old quarter.

Isle of Pines Upilé Regatta

Season or date: April

Traditional outrigger canoe (pirogue) race. Island-wide BBQ is a highlight.

Bastille Day

Season or date: July 14

French Revolution anniversary. Military parade followed by evening fireworks.

Wallis & Futuna Day

Season or date: Early April

Immigrant community festival showcasing ancestral culture through dance and song.

Hydrangea Festival (Santo)

Season or date: September

Held in Santo village on the main island. Mountain slopes bloom with hydrangeas.

Rugby Fest

Season or date: June

Coincides with domestic club final. Local food stalls line up.

Chocolate & Coffee Fair

Season or date: August

Gourmet event at Southern Province Promotion Centre.

Public holidays

  • New Year's Day
  • Easter Monday
  • Bastille Day
  • Victory Day (May 8)
  • Christmas
  • Nouméa Day (September 24)