Festivals – Tuko Lamu

Events & Festivals

Every even year mid february

Shela Hat Contest

Started by Herbert Menzer, the “Shela Hat Contest” takes place on the beach in front of “Peponi Hotel”. Locals are showing off their creativity as they parade their uniquely hand crafted sun hats. There is no limit to the inspiration of the contestants as they make use of the materials available around the island, be it pieces of coral, shells, palm leaves, water pipes, or even pieces of plastics found on the beach. Please visit Shela Hat Contest to view the colourful show.

Every uneven year end february

Lamu Art Festival

Started by Herbert Menzer, the “Shela Hat Contest” takes place on the beach in front of “Peponi Hotel”. Locals are showing off their creativity as they parade their uniquely hand crafted sun hats. There is no limit to the inspiration of the contestants as they make use of the materials available around the island, be it pieces of coral, shells, palm leaves, water pipes, or even pieces of plastics found on the beach. Please visit Shela Hat Contest to view the colourful show.

Every mid march

Lamu Yoga Festival

Started by Herbert Menzer, the “Shela Hat Contest” takes place on the beach in front of “Peponi Hotel”. Locals are showing off their creativity as they parade their uniquely hand crafted sun hats. There is no limit to the inspiration of the contestants as they make use of the materials available around the island, be it pieces of coral, shells, palm leaves, water pipes, or even pieces of plastics found on the beach. Please visit Shela Hat Contest to view the colourful show.

3rd month of the Muslim calendar

Maulidi Festival

This is a four day Islamic festival to celebrate the birth of Prophet Mohammed. During Maulidi Celebration joyous and beautiful music is tuned out, veneration is done and religious scriptures recited to mark the festival. It is a celebration of a people’s culture and tradition held so dear by the residents that blends history, the present and the future.

Every year November

Lamu Cultural Festival

This is a four day Islamic festival to celebrate the birth of Prophet Mohammed. During Maulidi Celebration joyous and beautiful music is tuned out, veneration is done and religious scriptures recited to mark the festival. It is a celebration of a people’s culture and tradition held so dear by the residents that blends history, the present and the future.

Various dates of the year

Dhow Racing

This is a four day Islamic festival to celebrate the birth of Prophet Mohammed. During Maulidi Celebration joyous and beautiful music is tuned out, veneration is done and religious scriptures recited to mark the festival. It is a celebration of a people’s culture and tradition held so dear by the residents that blends history, the present and the future.