Mauritius Holiday Calendar 2023: A Guide To Festivals And Events
As someone who loves to travel, I recently had the opportunity to visit Mauritius during their holiday season. I was blown away by the vibrant culture, friendly people, and stunning scenery. One of the things that made my trip even more special was experiencing the various festivals and events that took place during my stay. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and provide a guide to the Mauritius Holiday Calendar 2023.
What is the Mauritius Holiday Calendar 2023?
The Mauritius Holiday Calendar 2023 is a list of public holidays and cultural events that take place throughout the year. From religious festivals to national celebrations, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the rich culture of Mauritius. It’s important to note that some of these holidays may affect business hours and transportation, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly.
January – March
The year starts off with the New Year’s Day on January 1st, followed by the Thaipoosam Cavadee festival. This Hindu festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil and is marked by devotees carrying a “cavadee” – a wooden structure decorated with flowers and fruits – and piercing their bodies with skewers as a sign of devotion. In February, the Chinese New Year is celebrated with dragon and lion dances, fireworks, and feasts. Finally, in March, the Maha Shivaratri festival honours the god Shiva and is marked by prayers, fasting, and visiting temples.
April – June
April brings the Easter holidays, which is celebrated by the Christian community in Mauritius. The colourful Holi festival, also known as the “festival of colours,” takes place in April as well. This Hindu festival involves throwing coloured powder and water at each other, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. In May, Labour Day is celebrated, followed by the Vesak festival, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Finally, in June, the Eid al-Fitr festival marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated by the Muslim community.
July – September
In July, the Cavadee festival is celebrated again, this time by the Tamil community. August brings the Assumption Day, which is a public holiday in Mauritius. In September, the Ganesh Chaturthi festival celebrates the birth of the Hindu god Ganesha. This festival is marked by colourful processions and the immersion of Ganesha idols in the sea or rivers.
October – December
The Diwali festival, also known as the “festival of lights,” takes place in October or November. This Hindu festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and is celebrated with the lighting of lamps, fireworks, and feasts. In November, the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day holidays are observed, followed by the arrival of the summer season in December. Christmas is also celebrated in Mauritius, with decorated trees, lights, and feasts.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Mauritius?
The best time to visit Mauritius is between May and December, when the weather is dry and sunny. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and crowds may be larger.
2. Are all the festivals and events open to tourists?
Yes, most festivals and events in Mauritius are open to tourists. However, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious festivals.
3. What should I wear to these festivals?
It’s best to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, especially during religious festivals. You may also want to wear comfortable shoes, as some festivals involve processions and walking.
Conclusion
The Mauritius Holiday Calendar 2023 is packed with exciting festivals and events that offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the island. From religious celebrations to national holidays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By planning your trip around these events, you’ll have a more immersive and memorable experience in this beautiful country.