Festivals and Events in Moorea Tahiti

Experiencing the Magic of Local Festivals & Events in Moorea

Moorea, with its stunning beauty and Polynesian culture, offers a delightful array of local festivals and events throughout the year. These vibrant celebrations offer a unique glimpse into the island’s traditions and provide plenty of fun for visitors. Here are some of the most popular:

1. Heiva I Moorea:

  • When: Typically held in July
  • What: This annual festival is a celebration of Polynesian culture, with events like traditional dance competitions (dance is a huge part of their heritage!), outrigger canoe races, and sports tournaments featuring ancient Polynesian games.
  • Experience: Expect to see mesmerizing dances, colorful costumes, and the rhythmic beat of drums echoing across the island.

2. Fête de la Musique (Music Festival):

  • When: June 21st (every year)
  • What: A global celebration of music, with free concerts and performances held in public spaces throughout the island.
  • Experience: Enjoy a diverse lineup of local musicians, from traditional Polynesian groups to modern bands, all playing for free!

3. Local Markets:

  • When: Most villages have regular markets featuring fresh produce, seafood, crafts, and local delicacies.
  • Where: These bustling marketplaces are a fantastic way to experience the local culture. Meet artisans, taste fresh fruit and sample traditional dishes like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice) or poisson cru en coco (coconut ceviche), and find unique souvenirs you won’t see anywhere else.

4. Surfing Competitions:

  • When: Held throughout the year at various beaches on Moorea
  • What: Witness the thrill of surfing as local athletes ride the waves with impressive skill and grace.

5. Cultural Events:

  • Expect to see a variety of traditional Polynesian dances, music, and music making.

6. Water Sports Festivals:

  • When: Regularly held throughout the year
  • What: These events are a great opportunity to try out different water sports and experience the excitement of island competitions.

7. Local Dance Performances:

  • Where: Many resorts and hotels in Moorea offer Polynesian dance performances showcasing the island’s rich cultural history.
  • Experience: Enjoy vibrant music, traditional costumes, and captivating dances while learning about Tahitian culture.

8. Hawaiki Nui Va’a:

  • When: Held annually in early August.

  • What: This prestigious outrigger canoe race draws teams from across the globe to compete on the stunning waters of Moorea.

  • Experience: Experience the thrill of Polynesian culture and competition at this annual event.

9. Other Local Celebrations:

  • When: Throughout the year, you’ll find various festivals celebrating local traditions and products.

  • Experience: These events often feature traditional Polynesian activities like:

    • Fête de la Musique (Music Festival): Enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, experiencing the diverse lineup of music genres and cultural performances, and witnessing the skill and passion of the local paddlers.

  • When: You’ll also find events like:

  • The Heiva i Tahiti Festival: This is a celebration of Polynesian culture that takes place annually in August. It is a major cultural event that showcases traditional dance, music, music and sports competitions.

  • Local celebrations: Traditional Polynesian festivals are often vibrant and festive, celebrating the rich history and heritage of the island.

Where to Find Information:

  • Check with your hotel or accommodation: They often have information on local events and activities happening during your stay.
  • Ask local residents: Locals are a fantastic source for finding out about hidden gems and celebrations that you might not see online.
  • Attend the local “marae” (ceremonial platform): Many villages have traditional gatherings, which can be a great way to experience Polynesian culture firsthand.

Look for local signs and posters: As many events are held at different locations throughout the island, keep an eye out for announcements while you’re in the area.

  • Visit local markets and community centers: These are often hubs for cultural events and gatherings.
  • Talk to your tour guide: They can point you towards upcoming events during your stay.

Local Festivals and Events:

  • Hawaiki Nui Va’a: This international outrigger canoe race takes place in Moorea and is a fantastic way to experience the island’s love for water sports. You can find information about the event on the website of the French Polynesian Tourism Board, as they often feature “Havaiki Nui” events on their calendar.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular festivals like Hawaiki N’ui can be busy, so plan accordingly and arrive early to find a good spot.
  • Embrace the Polynesian spirit: Learn about the history of the event and some basic local phrases for a more immersive experience.
  • Respect local customs:

Remember, research is key! Check with your accommodation or the local tourism office for information on specific events happening during your visit. They can often provide details on:

  • Dates and times: When and where to find the festivities.
  • Cultural significance: What the event celebrates and its cultural context.
  • Activities and schedules: The types of dances, sports, or other activities you can expect.

Local Experiences:

  • Traditional food stalls: Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene by trying fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and Polynesian delicacies like poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice) and poisson cuit en terre (fish cooked in an underground oven).
  • Craftsmanship demonstrations: Witness skilled artisans at work, showcasing traditional techniques of weaving, carving, or crafting unique souvenirs.
  • Local festivals: These are often vibrant and captivating events that celebrate Polynesian traditions, music, and history.

Remember to check online resources for the latest information on events and festivals in Moorea.

You can also find information about local events at:

Have a wonderful time at the festivals!