Music festivals have grown into a major moneymaking part of the music business with hundreds of such events taking place each year. They increasingly offer an experience beyond music, with food, fashion and culture playing an important role.
Sierra Leone’s tropical beaches, vibrant local culture and growing music scene, make it a favourable location for festivals and the country is developing an impressive list of unique events, many of which take place in December.
These events celebrate Sierra Leonean culture and attract tourists, as well as members of the diaspora who return home to be with family and friends during the festivities.
Ma Dengn Festival
Since 2008, the Ma Dengn Festival has been held at Lumley Beach every December, offering up the best Sierra Leonean culture through music, food, fashion and art. The festival features live music from international and local musicians, as well as a range of market stalls showcasing artisans’ work.
Food Fest
This is a female-owned food festival that takes place at various times of the year in Sierra Leone, giving citizens and visitors the opportunity to explore new culinary experiences and hidden tasty gems in the city.
Gbamgbaode
Gbamgbaode festival is not just an event, but a dynamic experience that brings together culture enthusiasts and tourists from across the globe, creating a safe space for youth with unforgettable Sierra Leonean music, dance, and cultural experiences. The two-day event is held on the beautiful Sugarland beach in late December and features artists from Sierra Leone and neighbouring West African countries.
Freetown Street Art & Music Festival
The Freetown Street Art festival celebrates art, music and culture in the country’s capital city. Inspired by the former King Dus festival, the Freetown Street Art & Music festival encourages both emerging and local artists to showcase their work whilst fostering community engagement and pride.
THOA
THOA (The House of Africa) is an afro-house festival mixing African influences of arts and culture with modern electronic music. THOA events have been held in Sierra Leone and in London, and is emerging as a December favourite.
Fashion Industry Insiders
This is a specially curated fashion show in Freetown that celebrates creativity and style – and aims to inspire, educate and empower the new generation of African designers.
Ecofest Music Festival
The brainchild of Kabaka Multimedia Entertainment (KME), Ecofest is a two-day festival of music, comedy, fashion the arts and creativity from West Africa. Ecofest has been a Sierra Leonean fixture for the last five years and attracts a considerable national and international audience.
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