Unique Festivals and Events in the Maldives – Captivating Cultural Insights

This special day marks a period in the 16th century during which Maldivians successfully drove out the Portuguese who had taken over the country. The primary architect of this fight for freedom was Muhammad Thakurufaanu who along with his brothers fought the Portuguese forces and defeated them in 1573. The National Day in the Maldives falls on the first day of the month known as Rabee-ul-Awwal (the third month on the Islamic Calendar) which is around October. As part of this day there are flag-raising ceremonies, military parades and in some areas, fireworks as well.

The 26th of July is when the nation celebrates its Independence Day which is another key event in the Maldives. It commemorates the day on which the country gained its independence from the British and is marked with various events. One of the best places to see in Maldives, the capital, Male, is also where you can witness some of these celebrations which are worth taking in. A public holiday, Independence Day is generally marked by special parades by the National Cadet Corps and National Security Services, performances by local school children, various dance performances and more.

One of the most significant religious festivals in Maldives, Ramadan is a month-long event observed by Muslims. It falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and it is a time when Muslims will fast, reflect, pray and perform charitable acts. While many shops and offices close early during this time, resorts the likes of Adaaran Prestige Vadoo are open for tourists throughout. What's more, visitors have a chance to also savour some of the traditional dishes that are typically served during Iftar when the daily fast comes to an end.

Eid ul-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of the 30 days of Ramadan and is held on the month of Shawwal according to the Islamic calendar. This day is a public holiday and generally, devotees will attend mosque, listen to sermons and engage in communal prayers. It is also common practice to give food as a form of charitable acts. Eid ul-Fitr is also a time families get together and play traditional games.

The Maldives was in fact, a Buddhist nation before the last Buddhist king converted to Islam in the 12th century, followed by the entire nation embracing the religion too. This significant event is marked by this festival which is held on the first day of the month in the Islamic calendar known as Rabi al-Thani (around November). During this time, it is customary for religious ceremonies to be held along with speeches regarding the country's conversion to Islam.