Seychelles

Located near the East African coast, the Seychelles form an archipelago of 115 islands, scattered across the Indian Ocean. The islands maintain a vibrant ethnic diversity and a strong French Creole influence is evident in culture, custom and cuisine. The official languages are French and English, along with Seychellois Creole. The time zone is just four hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, which means minimal jet lag and less downtime when arriving from European and Asian destinations.

January

• Seychelles Sailing Cup – Watch or join in on this race, held under the authority of the Seychelles Yachting Association. It’s open to amateur and professional sailors on any type of sailing boat.

February

• The Kavadi Festival – Experience the sights and sounds of this annual festival, celebrated at the Hindu temple in Victoria. Members of Seychelles' Hindu community offer prayers and small pots of milk to Lord Murugan, the warrior deity of the hills, in return for his blessing.
• Eco-Healing Seychelles Marathon – A healthier body and mind are waiting at the finish line for competitors making their way through stunning scenery while breathing fresh, unpolluted air.

March

• Fête de la Francophonie – Take in films, exhibitions and a craft bazaar at this event, which features activities at various locations on the scenic island of Mahé.

April

• Rotary Fishing Tournament – Experience one of Seychelles’ national passions in this weekend tournament hosted by the Marine Charter Association in Victoria features competitions in trolling and bottom fishing.

May-June

• Seychelles International Festival of Classical Music – Beauty for the ears as well as the eyes at this festival featuring professional musicians, choristers and soloists from several countries. It runs from late May through early June and offers vocal and instrumental performances at various locations on the island of Mahé.

August

• Feast of the Assumption of Mary – Witness local colour and spectacle at this festival held at the church on La Digue. Christians throughout Seychelles visit the smallest of the main islands to participate each year.

September

• Mahé-Praslin Windsurfing Race – Watch as participants test their skill, ability and endurance at this event which begins at Victoria Harbour on Mahé and ends on neighbouring Praslin following a race across the ocean.
• Tourism Week – During the last week of September, enjoy bands, moutya (dance) evenings and a variety of cultural events.

October

• Festival Kreol – Taste the colours, sounds, flavours and fragrances of one corner of the Creole world at this largest and most important event in Seychelles. This festival usually takes place during the last week of October with a variety of events taking place throughout Mahé.

November

• SUBIOS Underwater Film and Image Festival – Discover what lies beneath in this three-week festival featuring entertainment and activities throughout Mahé and Praslin, including screenings of underwater films and talks by diving experts from around the world.