Joanna James
Steeped in unique culture and exceedingly rich heritages, the country of Lesotho contains a multitude of festivals that reflect its development as a nation - with unique, colourful, and interesting events. From culture festivals to displays of art and skill, the once-established colony of the United Kingdom proudly celebrates events with pomp and flair.
Anointed to celebrate the first King of Lesotho, King Moshoeshoe the First, the 11th day of March celebrates this figure, central to the development and the progenitor of much of the country's culture and legacy. The day was established on the day of the King's passing, and the day was chosen to mark the individual known as the father of Lesotho. Today, the Basotho people show their respect with solemn and respectful wreath-layering ceremonies within the capital city, as well as traditional music and dancing across many districts of the country.
Inaugurated in the year 1999, this day is centred around the extensive culture of Lesotho and provides an excellent opportunity for those curious about Lesotho to learn and appreciate the country's heritage. Bringing together both local individuals and foreigners of all ages and walks of life, it's an excellent display of the diversity you can find within. The festival features theatre, poetry, dance, song and all kinds of art that fit in between, with tens of thousands of tourists participating during the months of September or October, usually for around five days.
Unique in its disposition, the Lesotho Jazz Festival reflects the deep appreciation for jazz by Lesotho's populace. Not only attracting individuals from around the country to participate, but many artists from neighbouring countries also join the festival, and takes place during peak tourist season to draw in the largest possible crowds (usually around the month of December), and makes for an excellent choice when looking for things to do in Lesotho.
Organized by a collaboration between companies, the Gin, Wine and Jazz Festival is one of few unique events in Lesotho that really showcase everything the country offers, especially the much sought-after mountaineering escapades and endurance climbing activities in rustic and rural settings. As expected from the name, the choice of wine is also a focus of the event, usually paired with a game such as wine pong or similar. There are also wine seminars for novice wine enthusiasts to better understand their most favoured wines and also cover the fundamentals of wine etiquette.
This entry on the list combines two famous events for Christianity - prevalent in Lesotho as the majority of the country is of Christian belief, thanks to the introduction of the religion via missionaries that were allowed into the country by King Moshoeshoe. As with any other Christiantity-steeped country, Lesotho celebrates the Easter and Christmas events with much verve and in much the same way as Western countries do, with families across the country visiting the church and grand displays throughout the capital. Many resorts like the Avani Lesotho Hotel & Casino also host their own variation of the hallmark day on the premises as well.
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.
