Living traditions and cultural immersion all year round
Algeria, a country of cultural diversity and regional riches, is also a land of festivals and popular celebrations. Each region has its own rituals, celebrations and artistic events. Music, theatre, gastronomy, handicrafts, ceremonies… these events allow you to immerse yourself in a living, welcoming and constantly evolving culture.
Here is a selection of the most emblematic festivals to include in your travel itinerary in 2025.
Rai Festival – Sidi Bel Abbès
Sidi Bel Abbès, the historic capital of Rai, hosts a music festival every summer, bringing together the emblematic figures of the genre and the younger generation. Open-air concerts, a festive atmosphere and an intergenerational audience.
- When: July-August
- Who should visit: Popular music fans, urban culture enthusiasts
International Theatre Festival – Béjaïa
Every year, this cultural event attracts troupes from Algeria, Africa and Europe. It combines classical performances with contemporary creations, often in the open air or in heritage sites.
- When: September
- What to enjoy: street performances, children’s workshops, artistic encounters
Yennayer – Berber New Year
Celebrated on 12 January, Yennayer marks the start of the new year according to the Amazigh calendar. It’s a celebration of identity that’s deeply rooted in Kabylia, the Aurès region and many families in the diaspora.
- Where to experience it: villages in Kabylia, with traditional meals, music and crafts
- Please note: this event is recognised by the Algerian government as an official public holiday
Sahara Festival – Taghit, Timimoun, Tamanrasset
Plunge into the heart of Saharan culture with a programme combining fantasia, mehari races, Tuareg music concerts and craft markets. A travelling festival, depending on the region.
- When: between November and January
- To combine with: Saharan bivouac, 4×4 tour, ksour visit
Dimajazz – Constantine
The biggest jazz festival in Algeria. Renowned artists perform here, either solo or in fusion with local styles such as chaâbi, gnawa or Andalusian music.
- When: April-May
- Target audience: fans of live music, travellers curious about hybrid artistic experiences
Cherry Festival – Tlemcen
A popular rural festival celebrating the cherry harvest and local produce. It brings together farmers, craftspeople, traditional music groups and local families in a festive atmosphere.
- When: late May – early June
- What to see: craft products, regional dances, Tlemcénienne gastronomy
Moussems and regional festivals
Numerous moussems punctuate the year in the villages and towns of Algeria. These are religious, agricultural or social celebrations, often linked to a saint or a natural cycle.
- Moussem of Sidi Boumediene – Tlemcen: Sufi pilgrimage around the mausoleum
- Fête de l’azerole – Béjaïa: mountain produce, Kabyle songs
- Horse Moussem – El Kala: fantasia, equestrian parades and exhibitions
Practical tips for attending the festivals
- Find out in advance: some dates depend on the lunar or agricultural calendar
- Book early: accommodation is fully booked in medium-sized towns and villages during events
- Respect customs: dress appropriately, be discreet and friendly
- Favour local tours: regional guides sometimes offer combined immersions (festival visit)
Why include a festival in your trip to Algeria?
Taking part in a festival means entering the daily life of the local people. It means discovering a living Algeria, far from clichés, where tradition and modernity live side by side. Whether in the heart of a Kabyle village in winter or in the lively streets of Constantine in spring, every festival is a gateway to the soul of the country.
