Cape Verdeans love a celebration, and the calendar is dotted with vibrant festivals — from the country's famous Carnival to full-moon beach concerts and lively saint's-day parties. Here's what's on and when.
Carnival (February)
The biggest event of the year is Carnival in Mindelo, São Vicente — days of costumes, floats, drumming and street parties, often compared to a mini-Rio. São Nicolau also throws a colourful Carnival. Book accommodation months ahead.
Music festivals (August)
The Baía das Gatas festival on São Vicente, held around the August full moon, is Cape Verde's biggest open-air music event, drawing thousands for nights of Cape Verdean and African music on the sand.
Saint's-day festivals (summer)
Through the summer, islands celebrate their patron saints with music, processions and food — the São João festivities in late June are especially lively, with roots in both Catholic and older traditions.
Public holidays
National public holidays include New Year's Day (1 Jan), Democracy Day (13 Jan), National Heroes' Day (20 Jan), Labour Day (1 May), Independence Day (5 Jul), Assumption (15 Aug), All Saints' (1 Nov) and Christmas (25 Dec), plus movable dates like Good Friday. Expect some closures on these days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest festival in Cape Verde?
Carnival in Mindelo (São Vicente) each February is the biggest and most colourful, with parades, costumes and street parties.
When is the Baía das Gatas festival?
Around the August full moon on São Vicente — a major open-air music festival on the beach.
What are the public holidays in Cape Verde?
They include New Year's Day, Democracy Day (13 Jan), Heroes' Day (20 Jan), Labour Day, Independence Day (5 Jul), Assumption, All Saints' and Christmas, plus movable religious dates.