Joanna James
Among all things wonderful that make Lesotho the charming African nation it is, one could not possibly leave out the exciting festivals and events that take place across the country throughout the year. Come, enjoy a glimpse into the fascinating local culture and traditions.
March 11th marks a special day on Lesotho’s calendar — arguably the most revered day in the year. Basothos, the people of Lesotho, rally from all around the country to commemorate the great life and reign of Lesotho's first king and the “father of Lesotho”, Moshoeshoe I. The eponymous annual celebration dates back to the king’s demise in 1870 and has been a national holiday since. While the wreath-laying ceremony in the capital city, Maseru takes centre stage, scores of other sporting events and traditional dancing and music performances take place throughout the nation.
The 5-day arts and cultural festival takes place in September or October every year and dates back to 1999 when the people of Lesotho are encouraged to embrace various forms of art to depict the Southern African nation’s rich cultural heritage. People in droves flock to Morija, a large village in the capital district of Maseru that plays host to the eponymous arts and cultural festival event, to enjoy the theatre, poetry, dance, music, song, crafts and art displays.
It is the 4th of October, and the blue, white and green National flag of Lesotho is hoisted throughout the country, flying high in freedom, for it is the day that the Southern African nation gained its independence from British colonisation in 1966. Scores of traditional festivities take place throughout the country, where dance and musical performances take over the streets. Flag-raising rituals kick off the day, and the aura of freedom and independence is in the air.
Lesotho Jazz Festival is, without a doubt, one of the most entertaining festivals in Lesotho. The jazz festival takes place during the month of December every year when the Southern African nation sees the biggest influx of tourists. Lesotho Jazz Festival draws people from all over the world, crediting the festival for putting Lesotho on the map for many tourists. The vibrant spectacle in the lively capital city of Mesaru is something that the entire nation looks forward to.
Craving a bit of adventure in Lesotho? Gin, Wine and Jazz Festival is one of the most-awaited festivals in the country, where you are invited to take part in a plethora of fun-filled outdoor activities, from hiking, and mountain biking to a slew of endurance adventures. After a day of fun, retreat to one of the finest hotels in Lesotho the likes of Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
