Top Tanzania Events in 2026 | Festivals, Music, Culture & Markets
Planning a trip to Tanzania? Don’t miss out on the vibrant cultural scene with Tanzania’s top events and festivals throughout the year. From the electrifying Sauti Za Busara music festival in Zanzibar to the acclaimed Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), there’s something to inspire every traveler. Both shoppers and festive spirits will enjoy the charming Christmas Markets around Arusha and Moshi in November/December, as well as the famous Kilifair in June.
Whether you’re looking for unforgettable music experiences, cultural celebrations, or unique local markets, this guide to Tanzania events in 2026 will help you plan your trip around the best happenings across the country. Explore Tanzania’s rich traditions, lively festivals, and must-see travel events to make your visit truly memorable.
February
Zanzibar
- Sauti Za Busara Festival
Dates: usually mid-February (around 7-10 days)
Description: East Africa’s largest music festival celebrating traditional and contemporary African sounds in Stone Town, Zanzibar. - Check the festival website for the latest information on dates and lineup.
Moshi
- Kilitrails
A weekend of trail running, cycling, camping and live music on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. - Dates: 6-8 February 2026
March
Moshi
- Kilimanjari Marathon
Dates: 22 March 2026
April
Zanzibar
- Zanzibar Yoga Festival at Sunshine Marine Lodge, Matemwe
Dates: 16-19 April 2026
May
Moshi
- Moshi Crafts Fair
Dates: usually May, but check the website for the latest information.
June
Zanzibar
- Soundscapes Zanzi
Description: electronic dance music festival on Bwejuu beach.
Dates: early June.
Dar es Salaam
- Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair
Dates: usually early to mid-June (7-10 days)
Description: Tanzania’s biggest trade fair featuring exhibitions, entertainment, and business networking.
Moshi / Arusha (location varies)
- Kili Fair
Dates: usually June
Description: Kili Fair is a large international tourism fair, which serves as a networking occasion for tourism professionals, but is also fun to visit for others, just to stroll around, shop around at the many stands, enjoy some local food and music, and party vibes, especially at night.
July
Zanzibar
- Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)
Dates: usually mid to late July (7-10 days)
Description: renowned Pan-African film festival showcasing films, music, and cultural activities. Check the festival website for the latest information on dates and programme. - Mwaka Kogwa Festival (Makunduchi village)
Dates: 4 days in July
Description: traditional Shirazi (Persian) new-year festival with rituals, music, and storytelling.
August
Bagamoyo
- Bagamoyo Arts Festival
Dates: varies, often August
Description: Festival celebrating arts, music, and culture with local and international artists. See the festival website for more details.
September
Ngorongoro
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area Marathon
Dates: usually September (date varies)
Description: Marathon through stunning landscapes within the famous conservation area.
November
Arusha
- Arusha Christmas Fair
Dates: late November to early December
Description: festive market with local crafts, foods, and cultural goods, perfect for holiday shopping. In the evening, most stalls close and the party gets started!
Moshi
- Moshi Christmas Fair
Dates: late November to early December
Description: similar concept to the Arusha Christmas Market with slightly different vibe.
Monthly Events
Zanzibar
- Full Moon Party
Kendwa Rocks Hotel hosts a monthly full moon party at Kendwa Beach.
Arusha
- Wine and Cheese Night at Gran Meliá
Arusha’s fanciest hotel hosts a fabulous fest of delicious finger foods and wines, almost every month. Keep an eye on their Instagram stories for dates, or watch out for flyers inside the hotel. - Farmers markets: Arusha region has several monthly farmers markets at rotating locations: Njiro Shopping Complex, Rivertrees Country Inn (Usa River), and Oikos grounds (Haile Selassie Road). I’m a big fan of these and think they are a great occasion for travelers to get a feel of the Arusha community while shopping for some tasty treats or cute handicrafts. Exact dates vary, so enquire with locals when you’re there.
