Events
EVENTS IN THE MALDIVES
Maldivian festivals often invoke a real sense of family, with everyone sharing in the preparation of food, decorations and entertainment. Most celebrations include folk dances, traditional songs and pop music. Many public holidays in the Maldives are governed by the phases of the moon.
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January
The day of Hajj, Bodu Eid, and the three days that follow are national holidays and the Maldives’ longest annual public holiday. Families enjoy special meals and festivities are the order of the day, with sports, music and dance, varying in scale and style from island to island.
March
There are parades in the streets of Malé and on other islands on the 1st of Rabee-ul Awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar, when the Maldives’ National Day commemorates Muhammed Thakurufaanu’s 1573 victory over the occupying Portuguese.
July
July 26 marks Republic Day, the biggest national event in the Maldives. Republic Square in Malé hosts the official celebrations with lively parades and traditional dances.
October
The three-day festival of Kuda Eid (Eid ul-Fitr) marks the end of Ramadan. It begins with the sighting of the new moon, announced by cannon in Malé, followed by prayers and feasting. By noon each house has prepared a feast to mark the day and neighbours and even total strangers are invited to join in the festivities. Traditional, sporting activities and other community celebrations take place later in the day.
November
Republic Day on November 11 is celebrated throughout the Maldives, with marching bands and children’s parades,
December
Fishermen’s Day is celebrated on December 10 to emphasise the importance of fishing to the Maldivian economy and the livelihood of Maldivians. Savour skipjack tuna, frigate mackerel and other local fish on what promises to be a delicious occasion.
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