
From the green forests of the north to the golden dunes of the south, each region showcases its identity through traditional music, crafts, food, and folklore.
Let’s take a colorful journey through Tunisia’s local festivals — region by region.
When: July
What: International jazz performers under pine trees and near the sea.
Why go: The fusion of jazz music and coastal charm makes this festival magical. Night concerts are held in the ancient Roman amphitheater.
When: August
What: Celebrates eco-tourism and mountain life with hiking, artisan showcases, and forest preservation workshops.
Bonus: Local Berber crafts and traditional food tasting.
When: July–August
What: Tunisia’s oldest and most prestigious festival held in the Roman theater of Carthage.
Highlights: International music, dance, theater, and opera under the stars.
When: Ramadan
What: A celebration of traditional arts, Sufi music, and crafts inside the old city.
Why go: The perfect blend of spiritual ambiance and cultural immersion.
When: March
What: A fragrant parade of floats decorated with oranges, lemons, and flowers.
Bonus: Try the famous orange-blossom water and explore pottery souks.
When: Summer
What: A tribute to Tunisia’s maritime heritage with fishing contests, naval parades, and seafood feasts.
When: Spring
What: Celebrates Tunisia’s equestrian traditions with horse parades, races, and local music.
Experience: Meet horse breeders and taste authentic mountain food.
When: September
What: Local religious celebration honoring a saint (Marabout), featuring zikr, folk dancing, and spiritual chants.
When: December
What: A famous desert celebration of Bedouin life with camel races, traditional wrestling, falconry, and desert music.
Why go: It's the most authentic look into Tunisia’s nomadic heritage.
When: Winter
What: Music, poetry, and palm tree celebrations among the oases of Tozeur.
Bonus: Explore Star Wars filming locations and ancient medinas.
When: Summer
What: Cultural fusion of modern and traditional Djerban arts, music, and crafts.
Highlight: A celebration of coexistence among Muslims, Jews, and Christians.
When: May (Jewish calendar)
What: Pilgrimage to one of the oldest synagogues in Africa, with songs, prayers, and rituals.
Why go: A rare interfaith experience in a deeply spiritual setting.
Region | Festival | Month |
---|---|---|
Tabarka | Jazz Festival | July |
Tunis | Carthage Festival | July–Aug |
Nabeul | Citrus Festival | March |
Douz | Sahara Festival | December |
Djerba | Ulysses Festival | August |
Tozeur | Oasis Festival | December |
Plan ahead: Many festivals align with school breaks or religious holidays—book accommodation early.
Ask locals: Smaller towns may have festivals not well-publicized online.
Try everything: Say yes to tasting, dancing, and crafting workshops.
Dress respectfully, especially in rural or religious settings.
Tunisia’s festivals offer a window into its soul — where ancient traditions meet modern creativity, and diverse communities come together to celebrate life. Whether you're grooving to jazz in Tabarka, watching camel races in Douz, or sipping mint tea in Djerba during a local fair, each experience tells the story of a living culture that thrives from north to south.
Start marking your calendar — there’s always something to celebrate in Tunisia.