Explore Africa. Live the experience.

Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

sport · Dakar · Senegal

For the first time, an Olympic event is held in Africa: thousands of young athletes from around the world compete in 25 disciplines in Dakar, Diamniadio and on the beaches of Saly. For two weeks, competitions, taster sports open to the public and a cultural programme light up the country. Official programme and tickets: olympics.com/dakar-2026. Journeys between Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly take time: book a driver and a stay close to the venues you want to see.

31 October to 13 November 2026, in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.

Dak'Art Biennale of Contemporary African Art

Culture · Dakar · Senegal

A major event for contemporary African art, with exhibitions across the city.

Every two years; dates announced by the organisers.

Dakar Court short film festival

Culture · Dakar · Senegal

Africa's first festival of short fiction films: screenings, meetings with directors and workshops, in the heart of Dakar.

2026 edition: 8 to 12 December.

Vodun Days, Ouidah

Culture · Atlantique · Benin

Ouidah's biggest event of the year, organised by the State around the national day of traditional religions. For a week, the town comes alive with giant concerts by Beninese and international artists, traditional music concerts, dances and masquerades (Zangbeto, Egungun), processions through the centre, an exhibitors' village and evenings on the seafront. The official highlight is the great Vodun ceremony, attended by dignitaries. The 2026 edition drew several hundred thousand participants: accommodation and transport are snapped up, so book very early. Official programme and tickets: vodundays.bj. For practitioners, some ceremonies are religious moments: dress modestly and ask before taking photos.

Early January. 2027 edition: 2 to 9 January (public holidays on Thursday 7 and Friday 8).

Independence Day

National day · Dakar · Senegal

National day on 4 April: parades and celebrations across the country, the largest in Dakar.

Benin Independence Day

National day · Littoral · Benin

National day on 1 August, marking independence in 1960: parades and celebrations across the country.

Abéné Festivalo

Music · Ziguinchor · Senegal

A festival of drumming and traditional dance in the village of Abéné, in Casamance.

Around New Year; dates to be confirmed.

Dialaw Festival

Culture · Thiès · Senegal

Music, dance, theatre and crafts by the ocean in Dialaw: a multidisciplinary festival celebrating Lebou culture.

Late April; 2026: 24 to 28 April.