MAURITIUS

With so many events to choose from, we wanted to highlight a couple of annual events that are special to Mauritius that you will not want to miss out on if you have the chance. You might want to plan your visit to coincide with one of these or one of the public holidays or religious festivals listed here. Do not forget to check the events calendar page to find out what is happening on those special days or on any other day!

  • The Mahebourg Regatta

    The regatta in Mahebourg is an occasion not to be missed if you are visiting the country in May. A tradition which was started in the south of the island by sailing enthusiasts in the 19th century, mainly involves the traditional local pirogues, adorned with colourful sails. The race is immensely popular and draws huge crowds of locals and tourists alike. While you watch from the shore, you will be immersed in the festive atmosphere filled with lively local sega tunes and enjoy the variety of delicious local snacks and beverages available to please your tastebuds. You are sure to enjoy the day!

  • Maha Shivratree

    In the Hindu calendar, Maha Shivratree – which translates as the ‘Great Night of Lord Shiva’, is one of the most auspicious festivals, celebrated in Mauritius with much devotion and intensity, usually in the month of February. Mauritius is the only country outside of India where devotees make a pilgrimage, most often on foot, from all parts of the island, to a Shiva temple and deep crater lake, Ganga Talao, in the south west of the island, which has a symbolic connection to the River Ganga in India. Pilgrims decorate ‘Kanwars’ – often elaborately decorated bamboo pole structures, with bells, flowers and depictions of idols affixed, which are then carried on the shoulders of one or more devotees, as some can stand at 4 or 5 metres in height. Devotees are able to stop along the way for juice or water and volunteer led stalls, and when they reach Ganga Talao they worship and make special food offerings at the temple. Non-hindus and tourists are also known to make the pilgrimage, to experience the spiritual ambience of Ganga Talao and unique atmosphere at this time of year.

Day

Date

Month

Holiday
Monday 01 January New Year's Day
Tuesday 02 January Day after New Years Day
Wednesday 31 January Thaipoosam Cavadee
Thursday 01 February Abolition of Slavery
Tuesday 13 February Maha Shivaratree
Friday 16 February Chinese Spring Festival
Monday 12 March National Day
Sunday 18 March Ougadi
Saturday 14 April Tamizh Puttaandu
Tuesday 01 May Labor Day
Saturday 16 June Eid-Ul-Fitr
Wednesday 15 August Assumption Day
Friday 14 September Ganesh Chaturthi
Friday 02 November Arrival of Indentured
Wednesday 07 November Diwali
Tuesday 25 December Christmas Day