Namibia's 8 most interesting cultural festivals

Namibian culture is a mix of many distinct people, and its culture and customs have absorbed both African and European aspects, fusing them into a hybrid. Namibians are proud of their diversity and German heritage, and they like celebrating with loud and colourful festivals

Bank Windhoek Arts Festival

The Bank Windhoek Arts Festival, which takes place every February, honours local artists and their work. Throughout the capital, a variety of events ranging from dance and theatre to visual arts are held. The Bank Windhoek Arts Festival program was created to support a wide range of events, including theatre, visual arts, dance, and more. The organization provides a platform for Namibian artists to promote themselves in the local arts market while also providing entertainment for art fans.

The Enjando Street Festival

The Enjando Street Festival, also known as Mbapira, is a large gathering that takes place in March in Windhoek’s capital city. It consists of plenty of dancing in colorful and vibrant costumes, supported by live music. This event is two days long.

Windhoek Karneval

The Windhoek Kareneval, or WIKA, is the most important cultural festival in Windhoek and Namibia. Visitors will notice a strong German mood throughout the festival, which is a legacy of German occupation. WIKA, which takes place in April, includes musical performances and a masked ball for adults, as well as a carnival and Independence Avenue parade for children.

Africa Day

In this area of Africa, race has always been a part of the national discussion, due to Apartheid and various forms of discrimination that the people have faced over the years. In Namibia, local communities gather together on Africa Day in May to strengthen collaboration and peaceful coexistence. It is a celebration of the people’s multiculturalism.

Heroes' Day (Maharero Day)

Maherero Day takes place on the weekend closest to August 26th. The Red Flag Herero people gather in traditional attire to remember their lost chiefs who were killed in conflicts with the Nama and the Germans. The day is commemorated in the town of Okahandaja, where a loud and colorful event with military marches and traditional costumes honors Namibia’s war heroes.

Oktoberfest

Namibians understandably enjoy Oktoberfest, which has become one of the world’s most well-known drinking celebrations, having once been a German colony. Beer, entertainment, and games draw visitors of all ages to Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. Windhoek hosts this celebration near the end of October, in keeping with its largely German heritage. Beer enthusiasts should not miss it!

White Flag - Heroeo Day

The White Flag Herero people hold a parade from the Ozonde suburb to the graveyard opposite the mission station, where their chief Wilhelm Zeraua was buried following his defeat in the German-Herero wars, they do this every year on the weekend closest to 10 October. The day is marked by colorful Herero costumes, poetry, and military parades to honor those who died fighting the German troops.

Independence Day

This national holiday is commemorated on March 21 with a parade and sporting events. Every year on March 21, Namibia commemorates its independence. It is one of the country’s most memorable days. Namibia, then known as South West Africa, was released from the colonial domination of the South African regime on this day in 1990. This occurred under the protection of a UN Security Council Resolution, following a lengthy and difficult liberation war by freedom fighters who bore the great burden of sacrifice.

We are convinced that our efforts have piqued your curiosity about Namibia. So don’t put off planning your vacation with us any longer. An unforgettable holiday that combines adventure, culture, and nature to show you the country from a different perspective waits for you: 15 days Namibia round trip.

Don't forget to follow us on Instagram for more travel inspiration.