Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, 2014 by Paul Townsend via Flickr Creative Commons

Seychelles holidays and events focus on the Creole culture. There are many colorful celebrations through the year where tourists can experience local dance, music and food, including the La Digue Festival and the Creole Festival. Sports and religion are also observed with verve and Victoria and Beau Vallon on Mahé Island are the best places to enjoy the festivities.

Seychelles International Carnival of Victoria

This fun, annual event is spread over three days at various locations on Mahé Island to highlight the various cultures that have helped shape the Seychelles. It features float parades during the day, while all main hotels host special events that take place the first few weeks of February.

Semaine de la Francophonie

Celebrating French culture in mid-March, Semaine de la Francophonie is a similar entity to that which is enjoyed in Franco-influenced destinations around the world. The week-long party takes place on Mahé Island and features an array of art exhibitions and literary readings, along with French music, song, fashion and food.

Holy Week

Don’t be surprised to see lots of parading and partying over the Easter period. Seychellois are a deeply religious folk and these events are a jolly affair, when street fests are accompanied by numerous food stalls and colorful music of the region.

Independence Day

Independence from the UK in 1976 in celebrated and relived on June 29 throughout the Seychelles, with lots of flag-waving and the obligatory singing and dancing to local tunes. Beaches, parks and streets are filled with festivities, fireworks and special events put on by the resorts.

Round Table Beau Vallon Regatta

Held during the pleasant high season months of August and September, the hotly anticipated Beau Vallon Regatta is comprised of yacht races and a myriad of other water events. There is a swimming competition, tug-of-war (on land) and all sorts of events that tourists can get in on at the beach. Beau Vallon is especially busy at this time, so be sure to pre-book hotels as far ahead as you can.

La Digue Festival

On the quiet retreat of La Digue Island near Praslin in Seychelles is a collection of fun events incorporating Assumption Day (August 15). Spread over three days in mid-August, the celebration includes a bicycle tour, the Miss Fun Park pageant, and various sports, dances and competitions, including coconut peeling.

SUBIOS Underwater Festival

This three-day event at Mahé’s main beach (Beau Vallon) takes place in early October and is all about promoting underwater conservation. People come from all over to see films and photographs of the world beneath the waves. Accompanying the event are boat rides, screenings, a natty craft bazaar and lots of competitions.

Creole Festival

A must for tourists visiting Mahé, Praslin or La Digue in the last week of October is this fabulous six-day foodie event. It celebrates everything Creole, including their arts, crafts, music, dance and food. Hit any main area on these islands, including (and especially) Victoria, Beau Vallon and Anse Royale on Mahé Island, and you are sure to be in for a treat.

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